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 News & Analysis 

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6 Mar. JOINT IATA & AASA NEWS

IATA Focus Africa to spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency

IATA News

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa’ in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. AASA’s CEO, Aaron Munetsi, will represent the organisation’s membership as a speaker.  ^ Read more...

"Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa’s economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Focus Africa aims to align the continent’s aviation stakeholders in taking the pragmatic steps needed to turn potential into a sustainable reality.” Kamil Al-Awadhi. IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East

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22 Feb. AASA NEWS

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview: CGTN Africa News] Talk Africa: What's holding back Africa's aviation industry?

CGTN Africa News

Africa is one of the fastest-growing air travel markets in the world, yet continues to generate the lowest returns per passenger globally. What’s holding back Africa’s aviation industry and how do we unlock its true potential? Talk Africa interviewed Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO. ^ Watch on YouTube...

"Firstly, when there is growth in a nations GDP the number of people travelling by air increases as there is more disposable income – this is the most important challenge we face on the African continent – our economies are not performing well. Secondly, the cost of air travel on the African continent is substantially higher than anywhere else in the world (39% higher according to IATA’s latest data). Thirdly, our existing infrastructure cannot cope with the demand, making it very difficult to achieve growth.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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17 Feb. ACSA & ATNS NEWS

Industry cautiously backs ACSA infrastructure overhaul

Southern Africa’s Travel News

Airlines and industry associations have welcomed ACSA’s expanded infrastructure and maintenance programme, but caution that success will depend on consistent execution and sustained investment after years of under-maintenance. ^ Read more...

"The envisaged infrastructure and equipment upgrades are the outcome of a thorough consultation process between ACSA and key industry stakeholders, comprising AASA's member airlines and other entities. Airlines provided critical input during these engagements, and they rank the major projects based on their potential to deliver efficient service at affordable cost, drive long-term growth, and ensure the sustainability of South Africa's aviation ecosystem.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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13 Feb. ZAMBIAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (ZCAA) NOTICE ADVICE

Bank of Zambia guidance on settlement currency for statutory aviation fees

ZCAA News

The Zambian Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) notice advice to all regulated operators and aviation service providers: the Bank of Zambia (BoZ) has provided formal guidance on the settlement currency applicable to statutory aviation fees.

    BoZ has advised that, while the currency directives generally require domestic transactions to be settled in Zambian Kwacha (ZMW), the ZCAA may continue to bill and collect fees in foreign currency where such fees are prescribed in foreign currency under the applicable legal framework, specifically, the Civil Aviation Authority Fees Regulations, 2026 as read with the Public Finance Management General Regulations, 2020. Accordingly, all statutory fees prescribed in United States Dollars (USD), including the Passenger Safety Charge (PSC) where applicable remain payable and collectible in USD. Fees prescribed in ZMW remain payable in ZMW. ^ Read the ZCAA notification from the DG to all stakeholders...

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10 Feb. ACSA & ATNS NEWS

ACSA and ATNS up fees

Southern Africa’s Travel News

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) will increase their fees this year, by 6,16% and 9,87% respectively. After a permission process that had seen rigorous consultations with aviation industry stakeholders, the Airports Company Act: Publication of Airport Charges was published in January 2026. ^ Read more...

"During these engagements we meticulously go through each entity’s OPEX and CAPEX budgets. We request for clarity on or justification for any expenses we deem either unnecessary or excessive. After these consultations, the tariffs are recommended to the applicable Ministers for approval. In instances where the industry does not agree with the proposed increases, we make it known to the Regulating Committee, and after deliberations, the recommendations, including our objections, are presented to the Ministers." Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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6 Feb. AASA NEWS

Africa’s aviation industry at a crossroads

Southern Africa’s Travel News

The prosperity and economic benefits of Africa’s aviation sector continues to be hampered by persistent infrastructure bottlenecks, high operating costs and restrictive policies that are imposing real constraints on airlines and the broader industry. Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, has consistently highlighted multiple challenges at industry forums and in recent media interviews. ^ Read more...

"Africa has the fundamentals to become a global aviation powerhouse, but only if we remove the structural and regulatory barriers that currently hold us back. The focus needs to be on collaboration, infrastructure modernisation and policy reform; otherwise, growth will continue to be stunted despite demand. Leadership, long-term plans, and investment in human and physical capital are not optional; they are essential for Africa to fully realise its potential in global aviation." Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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30 Jan. SOUTH AFRICAN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT / SACAA: GOVERNMENT GAZETTE NOTICE

GG54050 notice / SACAA: New Passenger Safety Charge (EV) tariff published

SA Government News

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) have published their tariff increase for Passenger Safety Charge (EV) - effective 1 April 2026. The Passenger Safety Charge (EV) on the Airline Air Ticket will be R33,67 per passenger departing from any South African Airport to either a Domestic or International destination for flights. The current EV charge is R32,19, this represents an inflationary increase of 4,6%. ^ Download GG54050...

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26 Jan. AASA NEWS

Aviation policy proposals draw industry criticism

Southern Africa’s Travel News

Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, has raised concerns, on behalf of AASA Members, in response to the Department of Transport’s (DoT) Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy. The Policy proposes regulations for international carriers operating in South Africa that could weaken air connectivity and pose risks to the South African travel and tourism sectors. ^ Read more...

"The Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy needs to be refined in such a way that the policy balances national interests with global competitiveness, thereby enhancing connectivity not only within the country but across the continent and beyond." Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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21 Jan. AASA NEWS

African airline CEOs: An impossible job?

Aviation Week Network

Mark Pilling, Managing Editor of Aviation Week and African Aerospace Magazine (among others), spoke to Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO. In a wide-ranging interview they discussed government interference and their non-attendance at important airline panels; the case for and against state-ownership; a frank assessment of the repeated mistakes, failures and shortcomings of the airline business in Africa; the rise of tougher OEM attitudes; the impact of foreign investors on the market; and positive signs. ^ Read more...

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16 Jan. AASA NEWS

From estimates to evidence: Why accurate emissions data matters for African aviation

African Pilot Magazine

Accurate emissions data is becoming critical for African airlines facing carbon taxes and regulations. Why COâ‚‚ Connect moves aviation from estimates to evidence.
A new partnership between the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) marks a significant shift. ^ Read more...

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2 Jan. SOUTH AFRICAN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT: GOVERNMENT GAZETTE NOTICE

GG53922 notice 3270 of 2026 Department of Transport: New ACSA airport charges published

SA Government News

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) have published tariff increases for Airport Charges - effective 1 April 2026. The increase in charges is 6,16% in line with the Regulating Committee’s permission determination for 2023/24 to 2027/28. ^ Download GG53922...

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16 Dec. AASA NEWS

Airlines’ body calls for reform in African aviation

New Telegraph

The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) has called for bold, collective action to transform Africa’s aviation industry. The association states that change requires harmonised regulations, open markets, improved governance, financial discipline, and stronger aviation infrastructure and services.

     Speaking at a forum recently, AASA’s CEO, Aaron Munetsi, said that all players, such as airlines, airports, regulators, and suppliers, must work together to reshape Africa’s aviation story and demonstrate that African carriers can compete globally. ^ Read more...
"For too long, African aviation has been underestimated, especially by ourselves. Africa is home to 1.4 billion people, the world’s youngest population and a growing middle class, but with just 2.2% of the global air transport market share, we are still idling on the runway. Aviation is not a luxury; it is an economic lifeline. If governments genuinely want to democratise air transport, they should remove excessive statutory charges and taxes that have driven up costs, made ticket prices higher and pushed air transport beyond the reach of most Africans.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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15 Dec. AASA NEWS
[WATCH] AASA and the shift from policy dialogue to delivery in African aviation

​African Pilot Magazine

Filmed on the sidelines of the 57th AGA of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) in Luanda, African Pilot speaks with Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO. In this interview, Munetsi explains why AASA was established, how it works alongside #AFRAA, #AFCAC, #IATA as a regional partner, and what African airlines are now prioritising beyond discussion. ^ Watch on YouTube...

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10 Dec. AASA NEWS RELEASE   

AASA to encourage African airlines to adopt IATA’s CO2 Connect for accurate and transparent emissions data

AASA News

Johannesburg, South Africa. The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote the IATA CO2 Connect emissions calculator among their 16 airline members and carriers across Africa. AASA is the first airline association to formally support IATA CO2 Connect.
"IATA CO2 Connect addresses airlines’ and customers’ need to accurately measure CO2 emissions. By using verified operational data and calculated with internationally recognised methodology, it removes the potential for inaccurate reporting. This also has bottom-line implications in markets such as South Africa, where a carbon tax is applied to domestic aviation.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO
As part of the agreement, IATA will provide technical and operational support to AASA and its member airlines. ^ Download the statement...

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8 Dec. AASA IN THE NEWS   

International Aviation Forum expands signatories of the Aviation4All Declaration

AASA News

Ekali, Greece. The International Aviation Forum (IAF) has announced the expansion of co-signatories to the Aviation4All Declaration, including the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA)The Aviation4All Declaration is a landmark initiative first signed on 8 December 2024 in Ekali, and outlines strategic priorities to:

  • Strengthen the economic resilience of aviation,

  • Promote equitable access to air transport services,

  • Improve operational efficiency, and

  • Support the long-term economic prosperity of the global aviation industry. ^ Download...

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30 Oct.        [55th AASA AGA NEWS] AASA MEDIA STATEMENT   

ATNS updates to the industry - need for more clarity

AASA News

Johannesburg, South Africa. "The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) urges the leadership of the Air Traffic Navigation Service (ATNS) to strengthen their collaboration with airlines to determine effective solutions for addressing ongoing challenges related to unavailable instrument flight procedures (IFPs).

    These issues, stemming from various factors as highlighted in their (ATNS) industry update, risk causing significant economic consequences. AASA further emphasises the importance of maintaining adequate staffing levels for essential air traffic control and other critical positions.
    These disruptions, delays, diversions, and flight cancellations — and their effects on customers, airlines, and entire economies — are far more than a mere inconvenience; they are deeply damaging and simply unacceptable.

    We are dealing with an operational crisis, now in its 16th month and with no clear end in sight. This threatens the economic viability of several towns and cities and South Africa’s ability to be a dependable, efficient and competitive trading partner and destination for tourism and investment. The crisis requires a commensurate response with intervention from Cabinet ministers whose portfolios cover entire sectors of the economy that depend on reliable and safe air connectivity.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO ^ Download the full statement...

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22 Oct.        [55th AASA AGA NEWS]  

Spiralling costs as ATNS saga drags on

Southern & East African Tourism Update

As suspended flight procedures pile up, the financial and operational toll of ATNS' ongoing compliance crisis is escalating – and disrupting airlines, inconveniencing travellers and draining local economies reliant on air connectivity. ^ Read more...

"The failure to design, manage and maintain airspace cannot be dismissed as an ‘inconvenience’. It needs to be seen for what it is; an economic disaster which demands a commensurate emergency disaster response. The lack of urgency is reflected in the glacial pace at which approval renewals are being processed.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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22 Oct.        [55th AASA AGA NEWS] eNCA AASA CEO TV INTERVIEW  

Several airports affected by outdated flight navigation system

eNCA News

Johannesburg, South Africa. Watch and read the eNCA interview with Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO. Operations at Richards Bay, Mthatha, ORTIA and King Shaka airports have been impacted by outdated navigation systems with up to 200 flights affected. ^ Watch and Read more...

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18 Oct.        [55th AASA AGA NEWS] AASA MEDIA STATEMENT  

AASA's 2025-26 Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson elected

AASA News

Lusaka, Zambia. The incoming Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of AASA were elected at the body’s 55th Annual General Meeting and will serve for the next 12 months.

     Mr. Daniel Rosenzweig has been elected as AASA’s Chairperson. He is the Senior Executive of Lift, with Eswatini Air CEO, Captain President Dlamini, as the Deputy Chair.

     AASA’s Annual General Assembly was hosted by Proflight Zambia and held in Lusaka. It was attended by over 200 delegates representing airlines, airports, air navigation services, civil aviation authorities, aircraft and engine manufacturers, industry suppliers and other stakeholders. 
^ Download the Media Statement...

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Airline Member Routes & Industry News

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27 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

TAAG upgrades fleet to boost Southern Africa travel

The Traveler

TAAG Angola Airlines is accelerating a sweeping fleet renewal program centered on Airbus A220s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, a move designed to sharpen its competitive edge and enhance the travel experience across Southern Africa and beyond. ^ Read more...

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26 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

Eswatini Air reports 23% load growth, E323 million in savings

Eswatini Positive News Online

Eswatini Air is flying high as it approaches its third anniversary, reporting a 23% increase in load factor and more the E323 million in societal savings, reinforcing its growing role in boosting the Kingdom’s economy and regional connectivity. 
^ Read more...

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25 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

NTB, SAA join hands to boost African travel

The New Era

The Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) and South African Airways (SAA) have joined hands to promote travel within Africa and market the continent as a top global destination. ^ Read more...

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20 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

TAAG eyes direct China flights, aims to trim losses

Bloomberg

TAAG Angola Airlines is studying the introduction of a direct service between the capital, Luanda, and Guangzhou in China, Jornal de Angola has reported. TAAG  Chairman Clovis Rosa told the state-run newspaper the proposed route addition was part of a strategy to trim losses at the airline to about $90 million in 2026 from $123 million last year. ^ Read more...

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17 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

FlySafair and SAA recognised as Africa's most punctual airlines in latest rankings

IOL Online

FlySafair and South African Airways (SAA) have been recognised as the most punctual airlines in the Middle East and Africa - revealed in the January 2026 Airlines & Airports On-Time Performance Report by Cirium. ^ Read more...

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10 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

FedAir unveils new lodge routes

Southern Africa’s Travel News

South Africa’s Federal Airlines (FedAir) has unveiled a host of enhancements to its shuttle service. These are designed to provide guests with more seamless and personalised access to five of the region’s most prestigious lodges: Londolozi, Singita, MalaMala, Ulusaba and Arathusa. ^ Read more...

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10 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

Harith signs deal to acquire FlySafair

Southern Africa’s Travel News

Pan-African infrastructure investor Harith has signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement to acquire FlySafair, in a transaction that could see South Africa’s largest domestic airline move into entirely local ownership, subject to regulatory approvals. The deal remains subject to approvals from the Competition Commission and aviation regulators, including the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC). ^ Read more...

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9 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

SAA posts second full-year profit since restructuring

Aviation Week

South African Airways (SAA) Group has posted a R155 million ($9.7 million) full-year net profit, marking its second year of profitability since exiting business rescue in April 2021. ^ Read more...

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4 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS 

International routes drive SAA’s December growth

Southern Africa’s Travel News

South African Airways (SAA) increased its share of regional and international travel in December 2025, while lagging on domestic routes. The airline reported year-on-year growth in December passenger volumes, driven by higher frequencies and additional capacity.^ Read more...

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3 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Lift joins IATA

Southern Africa’s Travel News

Global Airways’ Lift has become an IATA member. Its membership signals the carrier’s adherence to advanced safety standards, per IATA’s Operational Safety Audit, and its ability to participate in IATA’s settlement systems, including the BSP and IATA Pay. ^ Read more...

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1 Feb. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Congo Airways adds Airbus A320 as DRC bets on air links to support mining, oil economy

Chimp Reports

The DRC has taken delivery of a new Airbus A320 for state-owned Congo Airways, in a move aimed at restoring air connectivity in one of Africa’s most resource-rich but logistically constrained economies. ^ Read more...

Market Analysis, Reports & News: IATA & ICAO

 IATA Economic Reports & News â€‹

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2 Mar. IATA JANUARY PASSENGER REPORT 

African airlines record an 11.7% YoY increase in passenger demand

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[African airlines record an 11.7% YoY increase in passenger demand] African airlines recorded the fastest international traffic growth, with RPK up 11.7% year-on-year (YoY) with capacity up 10.1% YoY. The load factor was 77.4% (+1.1 ppt compared to January 2025). African airlines recorded the highest YoY increase in passenger traffic among all regions, with a 17.9% YoY surge in total RPK.

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“The timing of the Lunar New Year partly explains the slower 3.8% expansion in January, but the fundamentals are in place for demand to continue strong growth in 2026. Events over the weekend have introduced some uncertainty into the evolution of traffic and fuel costs. We all hope for an early peaceful resolution to the current hostilities. It is critical states respect their obligation to keep civilians, and civil aviation free from harm. Average fares are expected to fall in real terms over the course of 2026, continuing a long-established trend of more affordable air travel. This is despite cost pressures from rising infrastructure charges, regulatory burdens, and the cost of the energy transition. In the face of these cost and regulatory pressures, it is notable 2025 saw the slowest rate of new airline start-ups since 1999. Governments who value competition should consider this a canary in the coal mine. To protect the benefits of connectivity, these cost and regulatory issues must be addressed." Willie Walsh, IATA DG. ^ Read more...

2 Mar. IATA JANUARY AIR CARGO REPORT 

Impressive 18.2% YoY increase in cargo demand for African carriers

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Africa leads expansion with seven months of double-digit growth. African airlines saw a 18.2% year-on-year (YoY) increase in demand for air cargo in January, the strongest growth of all regions, extending a seventh consecutive month of double-digit growth and reinforcing the region’s recent momentum. Cargo capacity increased by 6.5% YoY. The Africa–Asia trade lane (1.3% industry market share) posted the most striking rebound, with demand growing 41.6% YoY, the highest in 20 months.   

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“The demand for air cargo had a robust start to 2026, recording 5.6% year-on-year growth in January. At the regional level, the story is more polarized. Carriers in Africa, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Europe all reported faster growth than the global average. In contrast, carriers in the Americas reported aggregate contractions. The resilience of air cargo will continue to be tested in the coming months. In addition to the long-running uncertainties of evolving US trade policies, the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East will both weigh heavy on global supply chains. Addressing these topics will add extra importance to discussions at the upcoming World Cargo Symposium in Lima, Peru (10 - 12 March 2026) where strengthening air cargo’s adaptability and efficiency through digitalization and other measures will be a key focus.” Willie Walsh, IATA DG. ^ Read more...

 ICAO Reports & News â€‹

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9 Feb. GLOBAL AVIATION GENDER SUMMIT 2026

ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026 date and location confirmed

ICAO News

Date: 21 - 23 July 2026 
Location: Luanda, Angola
Venue: Talatona Convention Hotel, Rua Luanda Sul

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15 Jan. NO COUNTRY LEFT BEHIND (NCLB)

ICAO signs MoU with Amadeus for NCLB

Asian Aviation News

Amadeus and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in support of ICAO’s No Country Left Behind goal (NCLB). The partnership seeks to enhance the capacity of states to adopt advanced digital technologies that improve the efficiency, safety and sustainability of international air transport systems. ^ Read more...

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30 Oct. #ICAOA42: 42nd ICAO ASSEMBLY 

ICAO’s 42nd Assembly delivers clear mandate for transformation of aviationO

Montréal, Canada. A record-breaking 192 Member States united behind ICAO’s ambitions of zero fatalities, net-zero carbon emissions, and enhanced air connectivity by 2050, with strong calls for adequate resourcing.

The ICAO Assembly has given the Organization a clear mandate to pursue its long-term strategy for transforming air transport, with Member States adopting resolutions in support of eliminating fatalities, reducing carbon emissions to net-zero, and ensuring no country is left behind as air services grow in emerging economies. The Assembly approved the ICAO Budget for the upcoming 2026–2028 triennium and called for the Organization to continue its comprehensive transparency, accountability, and efficiency reforms. It also endorsed the creation of a Strategic Fund to be financed through voluntary contributions to address remaining funding gaps. ^ Read more...

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23 Sep. #ICAOA42: 42nd ICAO ASSEMBLY 

ICAO President Sciacchitano’s State of Global Aviation sets agenda for industry’s futureO

Montréal, Canada. The ICAO Assembly​ is the Organization’s sovereign body. It meets at least once every three years and is convened by ICAO’s governing body, the Council. ICAO's 193 Member States and international organizations are invited to the Assembly, which establishes the worldwide policy of the Organization for the upcoming triennium.O

ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano laid out an ambitious vision for transforming global aviation to meet growth and challenges ahead through his State of Global Aviation opening address to the organization's 42nd Assembly. ^ Read more...

Publications & Research 

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5 Feb. GLOBAL CEO SURVEY

PwC's 29th Global CEO Survey: Africa perspective

PwC have published the 29th Global CEO Survey: Africa perspective: Navigating disruption through reinvention. Africa's business leaders demonstrate striking optimism forged through years of navigating currency fluctuations, political uncertainty, and infrastructure challenges. ^ Download the report...

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2 Feb. AI, AVIATION & DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Can airlines integrate AI and flight operations successfully?

World Aviation Festival Insight by Eric Leopold (Threedot)

At the latest World Aviation Festival’s digital operations track, airline operations leaders and heads of data science were onstage in panels debating the future of AI for flight operations planning and control, particularly inside the airline’s Operational Control Center, where live decisions are made. ^ Read more...

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23 Jan. AIRLINE ECONOMICS RESEARCH

KPMG Aviation Leaders Report 2026: Evolution & Opportunity

The Aviation Leaders Report 2026 captures the views of industry leaders across the leasing, airline and banking markets and includes input from analysts covering the sector. Aircraft supply remains the defining constraint for the aviation sector heading into 2026. While OEM production is showing the first signs of incremental improvement, meaningful relief is still some years away. ^ Download the report...

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GLOBAL INDUSTRY INITIATIVES

IATA​

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ICAO​

 

UNITED FOR WILDLIFE

The Buckingham Palace Declaration and Southern African Transport Taskforce

 

In November 2016, AASA signed the Buckingham Palace Declaration (BPD) with the aim of joining a worldwide campaign to combat international wildlife trafficking. The signatories of the United for Wildlife (UFW) Transport Taskforce Buckingham Palace Declaration on the transportation of illegal wildlife products agreed to commit to combat the trade of illegal wildlife.    

​    AASA has committed to help where possible to bring an end to the illegal trade in wildlife by signing this Declaration, creating an awareness amongst its members, and supporting implementation of the commitments. On 6 February 2020, AASA offered to serve as a convening vehicle to support the establishment of the Southern African Transport Taskforce, emphasising the potential impact the Taskforce can have on all types of trafficking. 

    As a BPD signatory, AASA is ready to take their effort to the next level. Ian Cruickshank was appointed by United for Wildlife as Transport Taskforce Manager based in Southern Africa and will work with all stakeholders to set up the Southern African Task Force, with opportunities to become involved further afield.

    AASA also has other environmental priority issues that impact the airlines in the Southern African region. These include Carbon Taxes for South African domestic aviation, and CORSIA, which deals with the climate change program for international aviation, as well as other climate change programs. Due to the significance of the work that lies ahead, UFW have agreed that Ian, as their Transport Task Force Manager, works with AASA and the aviation sector as an Environmental and Wildlife Specialist to provide valuable expertise, and assistance to the sector, to achieve the goals and mandate of ensuring airlines in the SADC region are aware of illegal wildlife trafficking practices and implement preventative actions, and ensure environmental compliance with the appropriate statutory requirements.

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Mar. NET-ZERO CLIMATE ACTION

SACAA outlines climate priorities as global aviation pushes for Net-Zero action

The global aviation industry renewed its call for coordinated climate action at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, as IATA and several governments urged States to reaffirm the leadership of the ICAO in addressing aviation emissions. SACAA outlined its 2026 climate priorities, including a national SAF roadmap, CORSIA oversight and South Africa’s aviation net-zero 2050 strategy. ^ Read more...

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Feb. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF) PRODUCTION

African airlines question prospects of continental SAF boom

African airlines canvassed by ch-aviation remain unconvinced about claims made by proponents of SAF who argue that Africa could emerge as one of the world’s biggest producers, a development that would reshape the continent’s aviation economics. ^ Read more...

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Jan. UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD STUDY: GLOBAL AVIATION EMISSIONS

Global aviation emissions could be halved through maximising efficiency gains, new study shows

A new study co-led by the University of Oxford has found that global aviation emissions could be reduced by 50-75% by combining 3 strategies to boost efficiency: flying the most fuel-efficient aircraft, switching to all-economy layouts, and increasing passenger loads. ^ Read more...

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Dec. ICAO AFRICA SAF STRATEGIC PLAN 

SAF in Africa: Investment, Partnership, and Implementation opening way to carbon neutral flight for all

Montréal, Canada. ICAO has set a clear strategic plan for international civil aviation: air transport for all by 2050, with no fatalities and net zero carbon emissions. Delivering on this vision will depend on scaling up SAF, as it is projected to deliver more than half of the emission reductions required. Expanding SAF production is important as it is creating new economic opportunities, particularly in regions where investment and innovation have the greatest impact. ^ Read more...

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24 Nov. IATA INTEGRATED SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM (ISP) 

Global air cargo industry commitment to decarbonisation rising

Geneva, Switzerland. The global air cargo sector is accelerating its push toward decarbonisation, with industry bodies unveiling new data-driven tools to help airlines and logistics players measure, manage and improve their sustainability performance. ^ Read more...

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18 Nov. IATA JOINT STATEMENT AT COP30

IATA and industry partners call for strengthened global cooperation on aviation climate action

Geneva, Switzerland. IATA and the governments of Japan, Malaysia, and leading industry stakeholders, issued a joint statement at COP30, urging governments and the international community to reaffirm the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s leadership and accelerate coordinated climate action for aviation to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. 
^ Read more...

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20 Oct. IATA ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (IEnvA) 

IATA Launches the Integrated Sustainability Program

Geneva, Switzerland. IATA launched the Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP) at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in Hong Kong. ISP is a certification program offering airlines a sustainability management and assessment framework. It is designed specifically for airlines and built upon the successful IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA)^ Read more...

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03 Oct. #ICAOA42: 42nd ICAO ASSEMBLY

ICAO strengthens air transport’s global framework for net-zero carbon emissions and sustainable development​

Unprecedented unity with all Member States supporting environmental resolutions without any reservations for the first time.O

Montréal, Canada. The ICAO Assembly has accelerated aviation’s transition to a more sustainable and decarbonized future by achieving broader global cooperation, strengthening the international framework, and laying the groundwork for increased investment. The decisions made by the Assembly support the implementation of ICAO’s Strategic Plan for 2050. This long-term plan aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions from international air transport, building on a Resolution adopted at the 2022 Assembly session. ^ Read more...

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18 Sep. ICAOA42  |  IATA JOINT STATEMENT]  

Joint Statement at the 42nd ICAO Assembly: Urgent Call for Host Country Action to Enable CORSIA Compliance

Geneva, Switzerland. IATA issued a joint statement before the 42nd ICAO Assembly held in Montréal, Canada from 23 September - 3 October 2025. 
"The signatories (including AASA) urge all governments to take immediate and decisive action to facilitate the issuance of Host Country Letters of Authorization (LoAs). The prompt issuance of LoAs from more countries is essential to enable the robust implementation of CORSIA. Let’s also remember: for airlines, the cancellation of CORSIA EEUs is a legal obligation, not a matter of preference...
 ^ Download the full statement...

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USAID ROUTES

Combating the illegal trade of wildlife â€‹

Transportation is the backbone of global trade, and traffickers of wild animals and wildlife products rely heavily on the efficiency of air travel and cargo carriers to smuggle illicit goods. Companies from the transportation and logistics sector can play a critical role in identifying and strengthening key risk points in the supply chains, thereby helping to prevent wildlife trafficking.
    Although the duty for capturing and prosecuting these criminals rests with national enforcement authorities, aviation staff can provide an important source of additional intelligence. Associations like International Air Transport Association (IATA)Airports Council International (ACI), and AASA, together with organizations like United for Wildlife (UfW), are working with many other aviation stakeholders to support the work of enforcement agencies in combating the illegal trade in wildlife. ​​​​The USAID Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species (ROUTES) Partnership, which was operational in 2015-2021 and included ACI and IATA, has also developed a suite of resources to support wildlife trafficking prevention efforts in the air transport sector. The resources developed under ROUTES have been designed to enable companies to respond safely and effectively to instances of wildlife trafficking. 

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