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News & Analysis

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AASA News

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28 Jan. Draft aviation policy could weaken SA air connectivity and tourism, industry warns
26 Jan. Aviation policy proposals draw industry criticism
21 Jan. [AASA CEO Interview / Aviation Week Network] African airline CEOs: An impossible job?
16 Jan. From estimates to evidence: Why accurate emissions data matters for African aviation
2 Jan. [SA DoT/ATNS] GG53981 (notice 3733 of 2026) New ATNS charges - effective 1 April 2026
2 Jan. [SA DoT/ACSA] GG53922 (notice 3270 of 2026) New ACSA charges - effective 1 April 2026
16 Dec. Airlines’ body calls for reform in African aviation
15 Dec. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / African Pilot] AASA and the shift from policy dialogue to delivery
11 Dec. AASA backs IATA CO₂ CONNECT to strengthen Africa’s emissions reporting
10 Dec. [AASA NEWS RELEASE] AASA to encourage African airlines to adopt IATA’s CO2 Connect for accurate and transparent emissions data
8 Dec. International Aviation Forum (IAF) expands signatories of the Aviation4All Declaration
7 Nov. | [AGA] Proflight positions Zambia as a regional aviation leader at AASA Summit
31 Oct. | [AGA] AASA calls for bold intervention to transform African aviation
30 Oct. | [55th AGA] MEDIA STATEMENT ATNS updates to the industry - need for more clarity
18 Oct. | [55th AGA] MEDIA STATEMENT AASA's 2025-26 Chair and Deputy Chair elected

18 May. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / African Pilot / 2026 SACAA National Aviation Conference] Southern Africa’s airlines navigate survival, recovery and growth
12 May. ‘We are not panicking’: ACSA confident local refineries, reduced gas guzzlers = stable jet fuel supply
29 Apr. Jet fuel outlook uncertain beyond May
27 Apr. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview: Channel Africa] AASA calls for clarity from SADC region aviation stakeholders on jet fuel supply
27 Apr. Airlines Association of Southern Africa calls for greater clarity on fuel supply beyond May-2026
27 Apr. Galloping jet fuel: SADC airlines to implement cost recovery, surcharges
26 Apr. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / SABC News] Jet Fuel Supply | Costs, impact of services and prices
26 Apr. Jet Fuel Crisis Looms: Airlines warn of supply shortages beyond next month
26 Apr. Jet fuel crunch may ground regional flights in South Africa
24 Apr. AASA calls for clarity on jet fuel situation in Southern Africa, as African airlines face fuel price crunch
24 Apr. Alarm bells over jet fuel supplies
24 Apr. AASA urges Southern African airline industry to be transparent about jet fuel supply plans
24 Apr. Jet fuel surge, supply risks pressure SADC airlines
24 Apr. Africa jet fuel supply stable, surcharges follow price jump
24 Apr. [AASA MEDIA STATEMENT] Jet fuel supplies for Southern Africa
17 Apr. [SA DoT] GG 54520 Notice 3893 of 2026: Updated National Airports Development Plan (NADP)
16 Apr. [New AASA Member] Bowmans
15 Apr. [New AASA Member] Naulum Solutions
14 Apr. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / Business Day TV] Fuel crisis deepens strain on aviation sector
14 Apr. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / CNBC Africa] Local jet fuel supply stable
11 Apr. ‘Aviation growth in Africa stifled by policy
10 Apr. Aviation sector and burden of over-taxation
7 Apr. Munetsi: Africa’s limited aircraft pool reflects regulatory, economic constraints
6 Apr. Only seven African airlines fully functional, one profitable — Aviation Chief raises alarm
3 Apr. ‘Africa’s 52 airlines struggle with 1,000 aircraft’
3 Apr. Poor fleet size undermines African airlines ability to dominate region’s market
3 Apr. ‘US’s Delta Airline has more aircraft than all 54 African nations’
3 Apr. ‘1000 aircraft service 1.4bn Africans’
31 Mar. Zimbabwean born Aaron Munetsi to receive the AviaDev 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award
26 Mar. Jet fuel supply secure until June
24 Mar. AviaDev 2026 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient: Aaron Munetsi
23 Mar. [AASA Skills Development: AviAssist Course] International Air Law & Policy, 13 - 15 April, Windhoek
16 Mar. SASAR ARCC Report published
15 Mar. African bilaterals stall SAATM progress
6 Mar. IATA Focus Africa to spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency
5 Mar. Creecy outlines SA air cargo expansion plans
5 Mar. Creecy urges Africa to mobilise SAATM
22 Feb. [WATCH: AASA CEO Interview / CGTN Africa] What's holding back Africa's aviation industry?
17 Feb. Industry backs ACSA infrastructure overhaul
13 Feb. [ZCAA: Notice] Bank of Zambia guidance on settlement currency for statutory aviation fees
10 Feb. ACSA and ATNS up fees
10 Feb. Africa’s aviation caught in ‘profitless’ cycle
7 Feb. Navigating new horizons: The future of Africa’s aviation sector
6 Feb. Africa’s aviation industry at a crossroads
30 Jan. [SA DoT/SACAA] GG 54050: New Passenger Safety Charge (EV) tariff - effective 1 April 2026

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30 Jul. AASA IN THE NEWS / IATA PRESS RELEASE

Aviation industry urges African governments to align API and PNR programs with global standards

The African Airlines Association (AFRAA), the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged African States to implement Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and global best practices. ^ Read more...

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16 Jul. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / ZIMBABWE AVIATION DEVELOPMENT & TAXATION FORUM / 15 JULY 2026

‘Competitive tax regime key to aviation hub ambitions’

The Herald (Zimbabwe)

A competitive and predictable taxation framework is critical to Zimbabwe’s ambition of becoming a regional aviation hub, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said as he addressed the Zimbabwe Aviation Development and Taxation (ZADT) Forum in Harare. Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, was a panelist at the Forum. ^ Read more...

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12 Jun. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / AVIADEV AFRICA 2026 / 10 - 12 JUNE 2026

Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, receives the AviaDev Africa 2026 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award

AviaDev YouTube channel

Gaborone, Botswana. Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, received the AviaDev Africa 2026 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to route development and African aviation. ^ Watch the award ceremony on the AviaDev YouTube channel…

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8 Jun. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / IATA 82nd AGM & WORLD TRANSPORT SUMMIT / 6 - 8 JUNE 2026

Airlines bear the brunt of fuel price shock, says industry leader

Airlines are bearing the brunt of the fuel price shock created by the war in the Middle East, and South African carriers are not immune to the impact. ^ Read more...

"We are not likely to see aviation come to a standstill in South Africa. AASA’s co-ordination with the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, is open and accessible. Airlines’ schedule integrity depends on the security of fuel supply. So, if governments suspect there might be a glitch, they need to inform us as soon as possible so that we can inform our Airline Members.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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18 May. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / AFRICAN PILOT MAGAZINE / SACAA NAC / 6 - 7 MAY 2026

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview] Southern Africa’s airlines navigate survival, recovery and growth

Southern Africa’s airlines are navigating survival, recovery and growth, but several pressures are constraining momentum. Aaron Munetsi raised concerns for airlines: geopolitics, fuel security and costs; and fragmented regulation, policy and administration remain constraints on the sector. ^ Watch...

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27 Apr. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / CHANNEL AFRICA

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview] AASA calls for clarity from SADC region aviation stakeholders on jet fuel supply

The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) has raised concerns over a possible jet fuel shortage and is calling for urgent transparency from fuel suppliers, airports, depots, and governments across the SADC region regarding jet fuel availability and contingency plans.. ^ Watch...

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26 Apr. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / SABC TV

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview] Jet Fuel: supply, costs, service impact and ticket prices

The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) says the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has created uncertainty around future jet fuel supply. The association is warning of potential jet fuel supply constraints beyond next month. ^ Watch...

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24 Apr. AASA MEDIA STATEMENT Jet fuel supplies for Southern Africa

"The Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) notes with grave concern the lack of clarity around the availability of jet fuel across the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region, beyond next month (May 2026). Air transport, which is a crucial pillar for the SADC members’ economies, is particularly susceptible to disrupted fuel supplies because it depends almost entirely on imported crude oil and refined Jet-A1 kerosene. Airlines require certainty on the security of jet fuel supplies beyond a six-week horizon if they are to maintain their schedules and fulfil their obligations to customers. While we hope the situation in the Gulf will be resolved sooner so fuel shipments can resume, we must safeguard aviation in case the impasse continues. With this in mind, AASA pleads with the region’s fuel suppliers, depots (including airports) and all the SADC member governments to urgently share their contingency fuel allocation and distribution plans with the aviation industry.” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO. ^ Download the full media statement...

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16 Apr. AASA MEMBER NEWS

AASA welcomes new Associate Member: Bowmans

We extend a warm AASA welcome to Bowmans (formerly Bowman Gilfillan). Bowmans is a leading Pan-African law firm with over 650 specialist lawyers and offices in six African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, Tanzania, Zambia, and Namibia. Bowmans offers comprehensive legal services across numerous jurisdictions on corporate, finance, competition, taxation, employment, technology, and dispute resolution matters, serving clients across Africa and internationally.

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15 Apr. AASA MEMBER NEWS

AASA welcomes new Associate Member: Naulum Solutions

We extend a warm AASA welcome to Naulum Solutions. Naulum Solutions is a French deep-tech startup based in Versailles that develops AI-driven software to optimise air freight logistics. The company focuses on reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint by maximising the use of underutilised cargo space ("belly-cargo") in passenger aircraft. Naulum offers an innovative solution to reduce the carbon footprint of freight transport by optimizing the use of underutilized spaces in aircraft.

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14 Apr. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / BUSINESS DAY TV

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview] Fuel crisis deepens strain on aviation sector

As the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt the global economy and supply chains, local airline operators move to offset rising costs. Watch the Business Day TV interview with Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, as he unpacks the effects on South Africa’s aviation sector. ^ Watch...

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14 Apr. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / CNBC AFRICA

[WATCH: AASA CEO Interview] Local jet fuel supply stable

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has reassured the aviation industry that South Africa has sufficient jet A-1 fuel for now. Watch the CNBC Africa interview with Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, addressing the current state of jet fuel at major airports, the impact of the Middle East conflict on the global aviation industry, and constricted jet fuel supply. ^ Watch...

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3 Apr. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / NIGERIAN AIRCRAFT ACQUISITION & INVESTMENT SUMMIT / 1 - 2 APRIL 2026

‘Africa’s 52 airlines struggle with 1,000 aircraft’

The Guardian - Nigeria

Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, has raised concerns over the slow pace of aircraft acquisition and the fragile state of airline operations across Africa. Munetsi, who spoke on the second day of the Nigerian Aircraft Acquisition & Investment Summit (NAAIS) in Lagos, painted a troubling picture of the continent’s aviation landscape. He lamented that Africa had been unable to leverage its vast population and geographic size to build a viable, competitive aviation sector. ^ Read more...

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24 Mar. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / AVIADEV AFRICA 2026 / 10 - 12 JUNE 2026

AviaDev 2026 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award: Aaron Munetsi

AviaDev News

The AASA team wishes to congratulate our CEO, Aaron Munetsi, for this prestigious award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to route development and African aviation.
"After a rigorous nomination and voting process from the AviaDev Advisory Board, I am delighted to announce that Aaron Munetsi CEO of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) will be the recipient of the AviaDev 2026 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to route development and African aviation." Jon Howell, Founder & CEO of AviaDev Africa ^ Read the full release...

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15 Mar. AASA CEO IN THE NEWS / ABTA NIGERIA CORPORATE TRAVEL WEBINAR / 12 MARCH 2026

African bilaterals stall SAATM progress

Restrictive bilateral air service agreements, high taxes and visa barriers continue to slow the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). During the recent African Business Travel Association’s (ABTA) Nigeria Corporate Travel Webinar on ‘The Missing Links: Africa’s under-serviced air routes and business impact’, Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO, highlighted the policy barriers that continue to limit air connectivity across the continent. ^ Read more...

"African governments still have work to do to enable airlines to operate more freely across borders, improving access for travellers and supporting tourism and trade. The ECOWAS made a very bold statement, saying that they were going to do away with or reduce their taxes, fees and charges to enable the stimulation of traffic. This made everyone happy. But then, two of those countries, Ghana and Nigeria, suddenly introduced new taxes of $100 (R1 700) each?” Aaron Munetsi, AASA CEO

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22 Feb. AASA IN THE NEWS / CEO INTERVIEW / CGTN AFRICA NEWS

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

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...

Airline Member Routes & Industry News

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23 Jul. [AASA Airline Members] Top 10 African airlines with the largest fleets in 2026: Airlink, FlySafair & TAAG
16 Jul. [Indian Ocean Islands / Mauritius News] Beyond the Coastline: Richard Duval’s Vision for the Future of Mauritius Tourism
13 Jul. [AASA Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe: London Gatwick set for new flights to Zimbabwe and Moldova
13 Jul. [AASA Airline Member] Mozambican LAM recovers from losses and shifts to profits of €72.6 million
7 Jul. [AASA Airline Member] LIFT adopts GO7s airline-controlled virtual interlining solution
6 Jul. [AASA Airline Member] Air Mauritius Golden Jubilee: A moving achievement!
3 Jul. [SARS / SATMS News] South Africa's new online travel declaration system is now live: What travellers need to know
1 Jul. [AASA Airline Member] Proflight Zambia plans sweeping fleet overhaul
1 Jul. [SARS News] New mandatory travel rules for anyone entering or leaving South Africa
29 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] LIFT adds new Airbus A320 as airline eyes regional expansion
24 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] TAAG's successful direct flight to Guangzhou, China – only airline in Southern Africa
19 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] TAAG strengthens sustainability commitment by joining the IATA Co2 Connect Platform
17 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] LIFT appoints AirlinePros as UK GSA
15 Jun. [DRC / Ebola Outbreak] Africa’s airlines brace as Ebola fears close in on key hubs Addis and Entebbe
15 Jun. [Global ATM Reform] Why Global ATM reform is a long game, especially these days
15 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Airlink launches one of the world’s longest Embraer E195-E2 routes with new Mauritius flights
15 Jun. [South Africa / Tourism] International growth fuels R24.5 billion in visitor spending in Cape Town
15 Jun. [ME Conflict / Air Cargo] Air cargo rates rise despite capacity recovery
14 Jun. [IATA 82nd AGM / AASA Airline Member] Global airline execs believe in SAA – with a few caveats
14 Jun. [Southern Africa Airports] George Airport prepares to double capacity
11 Jun. [FIASA Fuels Industry Imbizo 2026] Creecy urges collaboration, LNG and ports reform at fuels imbizo
10 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Airlink to launch Cape Town to Mauritius flights
10 Jun. [FIASA Fuels Industry Imbizo 2026] Mantashe calls for stronger refining capacity amid global energy instability
9 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Airlink ups Johannesburg to Zanzibar flights
9 Jun. [IASC / B-BBEE Policy] Court strikes down BEE for international airlines
9 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] SAA to launch midday GBE flights
9 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe to resume London route
8 Jun. [Southern Africa Airports] Cape Winelands Airport secures strategic project status
8 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] SAA acting CEO on ‘speed dating’ mission to partner and lift the airline
5 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] TAAG to launch Guangzhou service on 23 June
3 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Airlink launches direct flights between Zanzibar and Johannesburg
3 Jun. [AASA Airline Member] Air Mauritius – 59 years connecting Mauritius to the World
29 May. [ME Conflict / IATA 82nd AGM / Jet Fuel Supply & Price] Airlines grapple with consequences of Iran war’s fuel price spike
29 May. [Southern Africa Airports] Cape Winelands Airport gets environmental nod, gears up for construction
29 May. [ME Conflict / Jet Fuel Supply] Dangote Refinery becomes world’s biggest jet fuel exporter
29 May. [AASA Airline Member] Federal Airlines unveils new luxury baobab lounge at Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport
28 May. [SAATM News] Visa-free Africa opens borders, but skies remain closed
28 May. [AASA Airline Member] SAA, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways: African carriers cut routes as fuel costs bite
28 May. [ME Conflict / Sports Travel] Sports travellers unfazed by geopolitics
27 May. [AASA Airline Member] Eswatini Air enforces strict travel rules
26 May. [AASA Airline Member] LAM and TAAG expand codeshare
25 May. [AASA Airline Member] SAA deploys Airbus A340 on Perth/Johannesburg route to evade transcontinental travel chaos
21 May. [Tourism & Travel: South Africa] Domestic tourism growth continues despite rising travel costs
21 May. [ME Conflict / Southern Africa Fuel Supply] Mozambique: Government strengthens strategic role of PETROMOC to ensure fuel supply security – MIREME
21 May. [AFRAA 14th Aviation Convention] Air cargo growth hinges on SAATM progress
20 May. [AFRAA 14th Aviation Convention] SAATM push ignores affordability
20 May. [ME Conflict / Aviation] Civil aviation engine market hit hard by Iran war
20 May. [New Routes: Africa] Qatar Airways boosts African connectivity with new routes and increased frequencies
19 May. [AASA Airline Member] Air Mauritius mulls narrow-bodies for SA routes
19 May. [AFRAA 14th Aviation Convention] Fresh SAATM push amid airline pressures
19 May. [AASA Airline Member] SAA looking to partnerships to expand reach
18 May. [Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026] Africa’s Travel Indaba fuels R835m boost for Durban tourism
18 May. [AASA Airline Member] Airlink: Direct Cape Town-Zanzibar flights take off this October
18 May. [Southern Africa Airports] New ACSA board takes charge of R21bn airport upgrade plan
18 May. [AASA Airline Member] Eswatini Air: Eswatini records 99,884 visitor arrivals - April 2026 Tourism climbs 10.1%

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23 Jul. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Top 10 African airlines with the largest fleets in 2026

Caleb Obiowo for Nairametrics

Africa’s aviation market is expanding rapidly, with passenger demand projected to grow faster than in any other region in 2026. Fleet size remains a key indicator of an airline’s operational strength, reflecting its ability to increase capacity, expand routes and support passenger and cargo operations. AASA celebrates the Airline Members featuring in Nairametrics’ Top 10: Airlink (2nd), FlySafair (6th) and TAAG Angola Airlines (10th). ^ Read more...

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15 Jul. INDIAN OCEAN ISLANDS / MAURITIUS NEWS

Beyond the Coastline: Richard Duval’s Vision for the Future of Mauritius Tourism

TIME Africa / Penresa

As Mauritius looks beyond its world-famous beaches, Minister of Tourism Richard Duval outlines a vision for a more sustainable, experience-driven, and globally competitive tourism industry built on culture, authenticity, connectivity, and balanced economic growth. ^ Read more...

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6 Jul. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Air Mauritius Golden Jubilee: A moving achievement!

DEFI Media Group Desk

Air Mauritius was incorporated on 14 June 1967. Its inaugural flight took place between Mauritius and Reunion with a six-seater Piper Navajo PA-31, leased from Air Madagascar. Today, the airline has emerged as a world-class company having bagged many prestigious international awards and awaiting the delivery of new Airbus aircrafts. ^ Read more...

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24 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

TAAG’s direct flight to Guangzhou, China – only airline in Southern Africa

Hilka Birns for ch-aviation

Congratulations to TAAG Angola Airlines on the successful inaugural flight to Guangzhou! This makes TAAG the only airline in Southern Africa with a direct route to China. ^ Read more...

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19 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

TAAG strengthens sustainability commitment - joins IATA Co2 Connect platform

TAAG News

TAAG Angola Airlines has taken a strategic step in strengthening its sustainability footprint while aligning with international aviation best practices by joining the IATA Co2 Connect initiative.
^ Read more...

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17Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

LIFT appoints AirlinePros as UK GSA

Theodore Koumelis for Travel Daily News

LIFT Airline has expanded its partnership with AirlinePros International, appointing the company as its General Sales Agent in the UK and four international markets. ^ Read more...

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15 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Airlink launches one of the world’s longest Embraer E195-E2 routes with new Mauritius flights

Luke Peters for Aerospace Global News

Airlink is launching one of the world’s longest Embraer E195-E2 flights to Mauritius from October 2026. ^ Read more...

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14 Jun. IATA 82nd AGM / AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Global airline execs believe in SAA – with a few caveats

Lindsey Schutters for Daily Maverick

A trip to IATA’s AGM reveals that South African Airways (SAA) still gets a lot of love in the global aviation community, but the government’s policies, not so much. ^ Read more...

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9 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

SAA to launch midday Gaborone flights

Southern Africa’s Travel News Desk

South African Airways (SAA) is set to launch a new midday service between Johannesburg and Gaborone from 24 June. ^ Read more...

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9 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Air Zimbabwe to resume London route via A330 ACM

Hilka Birns for ch-aviation

Air Zimbabwe is making a long-awaited return to London on 1 July 2026 after signing a 13-month lease agreement with Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas to operate its flights from Harare International. ^ Read more...

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8 Jun. IATA 82nd AGM / AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

SAA acting CEO on ‘speed dating’ mission to partner and lift the airline

Carin Smith for Business Day

The acting CEO of South African Airways (SAA), Matshela Seshibe, is using his time at the IATA AGM to look for suitable partnerships and ways of taking the flag carrier forward in a sustainable manner. ^ Read more...

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5 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

TAAG to launch Guangzhou service on 23 June

Tatiana Rokou for Travel Daily News

TAAG Angola Airlines will begin flights between Luanda and Guangzhou on 23 June 2026, strengthening connectivity between Angola and China and supporting trade, business and tourism flows. ^ Read more...

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3 Jun. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Airlink launches direct flights between Zanzibar and Johannesburg

Tanzania Insight Desk

Airlink has commenced operations to Zanzibar, marking a significant expansion of air connectivity between the East African island destination and Johannesburg. ^ Read more...

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29 May. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

FedAir unveils new luxury baobab lounge at Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport

Nicole Schickerling for ATTA Travel News

Federal Airlines (FedAir) has celebrated the official opening of its new Baobab Lounge at Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, marking a new chapter in elevated regional air travel and guest experience in the Lowveld. ^ Read more...

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26 May. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

LAM and TAAG expand codeshare

Southern Africa’s Travel News Desk

LAM Mozambique Airlines have expanded its codeshare with TAAG Angola Airlines, giving passengers access to a wider range of international connections via Luanda. ^ Read more...

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19 May. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Airlink: Direct Cape Town-Zanzibar flights take off this October

Richard Holmes for TimeOut Cape Town

Trade the Mother City for the soft sands of Matemwe beach! Airlink is launching the first-ever direct flights from Cape Town to the ‘Spice Island’ of Zanzibar. ^ Read more...

Market Analysis, Reports & News: IATA & ICAO

IATA Economic Reports & News

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30 Jul. IATA JUNE AIR PASSENGER REPORT

Africa records strong traffic growth

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African airlines recorded the strongest international traffic growth among all regions, with RPKs increasing by 6.7% YoY. The load factor was 74.2% (-0.3 ppt compared to June 2025). African carriers recorded the strongest traffic growth of all regions in June, at 3.8% YoY. Capacity expanded by 4.7% YoY, outpacing demand and leading to a 0.6 percentage point decline in the PLF to 73.9%.

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“Global demand for air travel was down 1.7% in June compared to 2025. This is largely due to domestic market declines in China, the US, and Japan, and weak but improving international demand for Middle East carriers. While Middle East performance improved, renewed tensions will not help the region’s recovery and the knock-on impact of rising fuel prices will continue to burden travelers with higher airfares. People continue to travel, which is an important contributor to global economic growth. There is no doubt, however, that stabilizing the situation in the Middle East and normalizing oil supplies would improve prospects for airlines, economies, and societies the world over.”
Willie Walsh, IATA DG. ^ Read more...

29 Jul. IATA JUNE AIR CARGO REPORT

Global cargo demand up

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African airlines saw a 4.7% year-on-year (YoY) increase in demand for air cargo in June (decelerated 7.4 points when compared to May). Capacity decreased by -7.1% YoY (tightening regional availability and amplifying existing connectivity constraints). African carriers recorded the largest annual gain, with load factor rising 5.4 percentage points to 48.1%, but the result was reinforced by a withdrawal of available lift.

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“Air cargo demand grew 8.5% year-on-year in June. While North America was the strongest contributor to growth, demand in all regions was in positive territory compared to last year. Demand growth outpaced capacity at the global level and in all regions except Latin America and the Caribbean. Demand also grew faster than global trade, supported by high-value technology products, and urgent shipments. While this all gives strong reasons for optimism in the second half of 2026, risks remain — continuing hostilities in the Middle East and a renewed focus on tariffs by the US among them.”
Willie Walsh, IATA DG. ^ Read more...

ICAO Reports & News

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27 Jul. ICAO GLOBAL AVIATION GENDER SUMMIT 2026 / 21 -23 JULY 2026

ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit advances action to strengthen women's empowerment in aviation

Luanda, Angola. Advancing women’s empowerment in aviation is both a strategic imperative and a catalyst for a more innovative, sustainable and future-ready global aviation sector. This was the shared message emerging from the ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026, where governments, industry, international organizations, and academia identified practical actions to strengthen the participation, retention and leadership of women across the global aviation workforce. ^ Read more...

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16 Jun. ICAO 2025 ANNUAL REVIEW

New report offers key insights into long-term transformation of global air transport

ICAO has published its 2025 Annual Report that details actions taken to address safety and security risk reduction, including the endorsement of updated global safety and navigation plans, the adoption of concrete targets aimed at preventing accidents, and strengthened oversight of risk management, accident investigation, and aviation security. ^ Download the report...

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2 Jun. ICAO AVIATION CLIMATE WEEK 2026 / 2 - 4 JUNE 2026

Aviation leaders gather in Montréal to accelerate climate action

Montréal, Canada. Stronger and faster efforts to decarbonize air transport are the focus of multilateral discussions at the ICAO Aviation Climate Week 2026, centered around the theme One Global Path: Advancing Net-Zero Aviation. ^ Read more...

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27 Apr. ICAO JOINT PROJECTS & INITIATIVES

ICAO, AfDB commit to enhancing air connectivity through joint projects

The development of air transport across Africa is set to accelerate as ICAO and the African Development Bank (AfDB) commit to identifying concrete opportunities for joint action. ^ Read more...

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23 Apr. ICAO URGENT CALL TO GLOBAL ACTION: PROTECTING AVIATION PERSONNEL IN CONFLICT ZONES

Drones, missiles, and jamming: UN aviation chief calls for urgent action to protect civil aircraft operating near or over conflict zones

ICAO is calling for stronger measures to protect civilian aircraft from military threats, revealing the risk of weapons targeting civilian planes is growing. At the 2026 World Overflight Risk Conference ICAO SG, Juan Salazar, informed delegates that military technologies pose risks to civilian aviation. ^ Read more...

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9 Apr. ICAO GUIDANCE: SUPPORTING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PERSONNEL IN CONFLICT ZONES

ICAO urges supporting the mental health of personnel in conflict zones

Significant mental stress experienced by aviation personnel operating in or near conflict zones will be reduced thanks to urgent additional guidance from ICAO, aimed at mitigating risk and maintaining the safety of aviation operations in these areas. ^ Read more...

Publications & Research

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16 Jul. BOEING 2026 COMMERCIAL MARKET OUTLOOK / 2026 – 2045 KEY TRENDS

Boeing forecasts US$4.9 trillion commercial aviation support and services market and demand for more than 2.4 million new aviation personnel over 20 years

Boeing has released its 20-year outlook for the commercial aviation services market: 2026 Commercial Market Outlook. Over the next two decades, Boeing forecasts a $4.9 trillion support and services market, alongside a demand for over 2.4 million new commercial aviation professionals. Sustained growth in commercial aviation is expected to continue, with demand and traffic set to double over the next 20 years. ^ Download...

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13 Jul. AVIADEV AFRICA 2026 / EMBRAER 2026 AFRICA CONNECTIVITY REPORT

Connecting Africa: Unlocking Africa’s Intra-Regional Connectivity Potential

At this year's AviaDev Africa conference in Botswana, Embraer published their 2026 Africa Connectivity Report Connecting Africa: Unlocking Africa’s Intra-Regional Connectivity Potential, highlighting the most commercially viable unserved markets. The study identified three South African routes, and 55 intra-African city pairs without non-stop flights and demand that would support direct operations. ^ Download...

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16 Jun. IATA 2026 AGM ANALYSIS / CAPA PERSPECTIVE

IATA AGM: Global airlines - record demand meets a profitability shock

Twelve months ago, at the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 2025 AGM in Delhi, the narrative surrounding global aviation was one of cautious optimism yet unmistakably positive. The IATA global outlook presented in Rio de Janeiro in June 2026 could hardly be more different. Read the The Centre for Aviation (CAPA) analysis of IATA's 2026 AGM: ^ Download...

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5 May. ACI WORLD POLICY AGENDA 2030

ACI World launches Policy Agenda 2030 for aviation reform

Airports Council International (ACI) World has released its Policy Agenda 2030, outlining priorities to modernise aviation regulation, and support airport capacity, connectivity, safety and growth. ^ Download...

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21 Apr. WTM AFRICA: AFRICA TRAVEL & TOURISM INDUSTRY 2026

WTM Africa Releases 2026 Africa Travel & Tourism: State of the Industry Report

WTM Africa, part of Africa Travel Week built by RX Africa, has released its annual 2026 State of the Industry Report, examining the forces shaping travel and tourism across the African continent. ^ Download...

Environment News

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GLOBAL INDUSTRY INITIATIVES

IATA

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ICAO

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UNITED FOR WILDLIFE

The Buckingham Palace Declaration and Southern African Transport Taskforce

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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 statutory requirements.

USAID ROUTES

Combating the illegal trade of wildlife O

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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 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.

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7 Jul. ICAO CORSIA / A CALL FOR GLOBAL HARMONIZATION

Global harmonization through CORSIA remains essential to advance international aviation emissions policies

ICAO invites closer cooperation with its Member States to maintain a globally harmonized approach and strengthen the CORSIA, especially by avoiding any duplicative intervention through national or regional measures in a fragmented manner. ^ Read more...

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2 - 4 Jun. ICAO AVIATION CLIMATE WEEK 2026

One Global Path: Advancing Net-Zero Aviation

Montréal, Canada. The ICAO Aviation Climate Week 2026, centered around the theme One Global Path: Advancing Net-Zero Aviation, will build on the momentum of the first edition held in June 2025, establishing this initiative as ICAO’s annual global platform to advance aviation’s environmental and climate agenda. ^ Read more...

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15 May. ICAO NET-ZERO EMISSIONS

Aviation’s Net-Zero Journey: Time for hard choices and bold commitment Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General, ICAO

For decades, civil aviation has been an engine of globalization, prosperity, and human connection. Yet it continues to face a defining test: whether it can decarbonize quickly enough to remain viable and valued in a climate-constrained economy. ^ Read more...

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23 Apr. AFRICAN RENEWABLE ENERGY

South Africa’s Sasol aims for green jet fuel exports to EU

South African petrochemical company Sasol has received certification from a German agency for its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), paving the way for it to start exports to the European Union. ^ Read more...

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13 Apr. ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) AND CO₂ REPORTING

ESG reporting a major gap for TMCs

While Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and CO₂ reporting is gradually improving, it remains complex and inconsistent across the industry, with corporates often relying on Travel Management Companies (TMCs) for guidance to simplify data and better understand and reduce travel-related emissions. ^ Read more...

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10 Apr. SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FUND FOR AFRICA (SEFA)

AfDB launches call for proposals under SEFA Green Hydrogen Programme to boost clean energy projects in Africa

The African Development Bank’s (AfDB) Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) has launched a Call for Proposals under its newly established Green Hydrogen Programme, inviting the private sector to develop green hydrogen and derivative projects across Africa. ^ Read more...

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2 Apr. GREEN JET FUEL

Phelan Green selects Honeywell process technology for flagship South African eSAF facility

Phelan Green, through its clean fuels subsidiary Phelan eFuels, today announced it has selected Honeywell’s renewable fuel process technology for its planned electro‑sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF) facility in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape, South Africa. ^ Read more...

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31 Mar - 1 Apr. ICAO ACT-SAF PROGRAMME: NAMIBIA SAF FEASIBILITY STUDY

Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) hosts Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Feasibility Study on Namibia's potential

Namibia will host the official launch and in‑country workshop on the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Feasibility Study from 31 March to 1 April 2026 in Windhoek. This milestone initiative supports global efforts led by ICAO to advance sustainable aviation and reduce carbon emissions worldwide. Aligned with the ICAO “No Country Left Behind” initiative and Assembly Resolution A41-21, the project is made possible through financial contributions from Switzerland to the ICAO Environment Fund under the ICAO ACT-SAF programme. ^ Read more...

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19 Mar. EUROPEAN UNION EMISSIONS TRADING SYSTEM (EU ETS)

IATA calls EU to review EU ETS to support competitiveness as aviation decarbonizes

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) calls for the review of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to enhance European air connectivity and economic resilience by improving the competitiveness of Europe’s air transport industry.
“European aviation policy must bolster competitiveness as it advances decarbonization. Reviewing the EU ETS offers a critical opportunity to refocus efforts on cost-effective emission reductions. The priority must be the full implementation of CORSIA, the reinvestment of EU ETS revenues into SAF and other credible decarbonization solutions, and the elimination of overlapping measures that add cost and complexity without environmental gain. By doing so, we will protect European air connectivity — a vital strategic asset foundational to EU integration, trade, and commerce. Amid global economic strain and geopolitical volatility, the EU ETS review must deliver a harmonized climate policy framework that balances the sector’s competitiveness with its climate ambitions.” Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. ^ Read more...

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10 Mar. EUROPEAN BIOFUELS PRODUCERS

Despite energy uncertainty, optimism persists in European biofuels

After several challenging years marked by tight margins and high feedstock costs, European biofuels producers are beginning to see signs of recovery. Recent developments in Iran have cast broader uncertainty in global energy markets. Despite these challenges, many companies in the sector are operating with renewed optimism. ^ Read more...

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4 Mar. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF) HISTORIC FLIGHT

Kenya Airways makes history with half sustainable fuel intra-Africa flight

In a major step for the aviation sector, Kenya Airways has completed its first intra-African flight from Nairobi to Cape Town using a 50% blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), in line with international standards set by IATA and its Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) initiative. ^ Read more...

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3 Mar. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF) PRODUCTION IN QUANTITY

Bleriot sees Kenyan SAF production starting in 2027

Kenyan startup Bleriot Group is gearing up its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production operation this year with a view to manufacturing SAF in commercial quantities in the East African nation in 2027. ^ Read more...

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1 Mar. NET-ZERO CLIMATE ACTION

SACAA outlines 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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26 Feb. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF)

Ghana takes step toward sustainable aviation with SAF feasibility workshop

Ghana has marked a significant milestone in the green transition of its aviation sector, as the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) launched a pivotal workshop exploring the feasibility of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). ^ Read more...

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25 Feb. SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL CERTIFICATES (SAFc) REGISTRY

SAFc Registry passes milestone with over 500,000 tonnes of CO2 abated

The SAFc Registry has now surpassed 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) through SAF certificates issued on the platform. As of February 2026, SAF certificates have been issued representing more than 164,000 tonnes of neat SAF.^ Read more...

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12 Dec. ICAO CORSIA: GLOBAL CLIMATE AGREEMENT

Airlines set to receive first carbon offsetting requirements under ICAO’s global climate agreement

Governments will soon inform airlines of their first ever requirements under ICAO'S Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), following ICAO's publication of a new calculation announced today. ^ 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

IATA issued a joint statement before the 42nd ICAO Assembly held in Montréal:

"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 preference. ^ Download the full statement...