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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
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

20 May. [SATA & SADC Secretariat Forum / Africa Travel Indaba 2026] SADC UniVisa take significant steps towards adoption and implementation as SADC and partners host side event at Travel Indaba
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 for 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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2 Sep. [Airline Member] 2026 World Travel Awards: FlySafair named Africa’s Leading Low-Cost Airline
1 Sep. [Airline Member] TAAG signs codeshare agreement with LATAM Brasil
1 Sep. [Airline Member / Cargo] TAAG opens Lusaka freighter route as Zambia’s copper boom puts air cargo back in focus
31 Aug. [Airline Member] Airlink starts selling its first long-haul destination without flying a single aircraft there
31 Aug. [Airline Member] TAAG appoints AVIAREPS as GSA for Europe
28 Aug. [Airline Member] E190s enter service under new Air Mozambique brand
27 Aug. [Airline Member] TAAG to launch Senegal and Cape Verde route
26 Aug. [Airline Member] Air Botswana eyes Embraer wet-lease revenue stream
26 Aug. [Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe Passenger growth raises return hurdle on US$775.5 million fleet renewal programme
26 Aug. [Airline Member] Air Botswana moves to appoint ACC Aviation as aircraft lease consultant
24 Aug. [Airline Member] Lift celebrates 5 years of growth with streaming debut of beloved anthem and new uniform collection
24 Aug. [Airline Member] Airlink joins NDC Gateway
24 Aug. [Airline Member] Airlink to launch direct Gqeberha-Mbombela flights
17 Aug. [Airline Member] TAAG to debut 5th freedom Dakar-Praia route in 4Q26
19 Aug. [Airline Member] Eswatini Air joins reduction of green gases
18 Aug. [Airline Member] SAA adds morning Gaborone flight
17 Aug. [Airline Member / Cargo] TAAG transports lions across Africa
13 Aug. [Airline Member] Airlink goes long-haul through expanded codeshare agreement with Qatar Airways
14 Aug. [Airline Member] LAM aircraft begin operating under Air Mozambique brand
13 Aug. [Airline Member] LAM to have 10 aircraft in operation this week, 12 by December — Kondić
13 Aug. [Airline Member] LAM expands domestic connectivity with new hub
12 Aug. [Airline Member / Cargo] Airlink: e-Commerce drives demand
12 Aug. [Airline Member / Cargo] Airlink: New aircraft expands regional network
10 Aug. [Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe relaunches JNB flights
10 Aug. [SARS News] SARS clarifies traveller declaration rules
5 Aug. [Airline Member] Airlink launches Lanseria-Harare route
5 Aug. [Airline Member] LAM poised for Air Mozambique rebrand
5 Aug. [Airline Member] Emirates and SAA expand codeshare opening 9 more African destinations for travellers
2 Aug. [Airline Member] Business upbeat over Air Zimbabwe's resumption of Harare-London flights
31 Jul. [Airline Member] Air Botswana boosts citizen value partnerships
31 Jul. [Airline Member / Cargo] TAAG launches cargo route to Lusaka, strengthening regional logistics corridor
30 Jul. [Airline Member] LAM plans to expand fleet to 13 aircraft by end of 2026
30 Jul. [Airline Member] TAAG passengers will now benefit from international mobile data plans
30 Jul. [Airline Member] FlySafair eyes new international routes as expansion plans take shape
28 Jul. [Airline Member] TAAG: Africa's first B787-10
27 Jul. [Airline Member] TAAG builds 787 MRO expertise as fleet modernization advances
27 Jul. [Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe returns to GD
27 Jul. [Airline Member] LAM receives 2 refurbished Embraer E190 aircraft from SA
23 Jul. [Airline Members] Top 10 African airlines with the largest fleets in 2026
23 Jul. [Airline Member] FlySafair continues to be SA’s most punctual airline
23 Jul. [Airline Member] Airlink applies for JNB-MRU - JNB-JRO
22 Jul. [Airline Member] FlySafair continues to be SA’s most punctual airline
21 Jul. [Airline Member] TAAG deploys Boeing 787-10 on Lisbon route
19 Jul. [Airline Member] Eswatini Air revenue soars 65% as expansion pays off
17 Jul. [Airline Member] Réunion’s Air Austral seeks $4.1mn for fleet renewal
16 Jul. [Indian Ocean Islands / Mauritius News] Beyond the Coastline: Richard Duval’s Vision for the Future of Mauritius Tourism
15 Jul. [Airline Member] SAA and Turkish Airlines implement a codeshare agreement to expand global connectivity
13 Jul. [Airline Member] Air Zimbabwe: London Gatwick set for new flights to Zimbabwe and Moldova
13 Jul. [Airline Member] Mozambican LAM recovers from losses and shifts to profits of €72.6 million
8 Jul. [Airline Member] Proflight Zambia to buy 3 ex-Eastern Airways Jetstreams
7 Jul. [Airline Member] LIFT adopts GO7s airline-controlled virtual solution
6 Jul. [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. [Airline Member] Proflight Zambia plans sweeping fleet overhaul
1 Jul. [SARS News] New mandatory travel rules for anyone entering or leaving SA
29 Jun. [Airline Member] LIFT adds new Airbus A320 as airline eyes regional expansion
24 Jun. [Airline Member] TAAG's successful direct flight to Guangzhou, China – only airline in Southern Africa
19 Jun. [Airline Member] TAAG strengthens sustainability commitment by joining the IATA Co2 Connect Platform
17 Jun. [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
15 Jun. [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. [SA 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. [Airline Member] Airlink to launch Cape Town to Mauritius flights

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2 Sep. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER AWARDS

2026 World Travel Awards: FlySafair named Africa’s Leading Low-Cost Airline

2026 World Travel Awards News

AASA would like to congratulate FlySafair, winners of Africa’s Leading Low-Cost Airline award, announced at the 2026 World Travel Awards on 28 August.
^ Read more...

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1 Sep. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

TAAG signs codeshare agreement with LATAM Brasil

TAAG Angola Airlines Press Release

TAAG has signed a codeshare agreement with LATAM Brasil for passenger transport services, enabling the integration of both airlines’ destination networks and strengthening connectivity between Angola and Brazil. ^ Read more...

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28 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

E190s enter service under new AirMozambique brand

Hilka Birns for ch-aviation

AirMozambique, rebranded from LAM-Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique, has placed its two Embraer E190s into commercial service on domestic routes bearing a new livery. ^ Read more...

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26 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Air Zimbabwe: Passenger growth raises return hurdle on US$775.5 million fleet renewal programme

Blessing Kanyemba for Equity Axis

Air Zimbabwe’s proposed US$775.5 million fleet renewal programme has to be justified by route level utilisation, yields and cash generation rather than passenger growth alone. ^ Read more...

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26 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Air Botswana eyes Embraer wet-lease revenue stream

Hilka Birns for ch-aviation

Air Botswana is reaching out for more citizen-led partnerships that enhance entrepreneurial value, with agreements unveiled this week with the Gaborone City Investment Company and Soft Landings Concierge. ^ Read more...

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24 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Lift celebrates 5 years of growth with streaming debut of beloved anthem and new uniform collection

JNPR for Bizcommunity.com

Five years after taking to the skies, Lift is celebrating an important milestone in its journey with two initiatives that reflect the airline's commitment to creating uniquely South African experiences. ^ Read more...

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24 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Airlink to launch direct Gqeberha-Mbombela flights

Bizcommunity.com Desk

Airlink will add Gqeberha-Mbombela to its route network from 16 November.
^ Read more...

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19 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Angola's TAAG to debut 5th freedom Dakar-Praia route in 4Q26

Hilka Birns for ch-aviation

TAAG will officially launch its new triangular Luanda–Dakar–Praia route on 31 October 2026. The service establishes a highly anticipated air link connecting Angola, Senegal, and Cabo Verde. ^ Read more...

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19 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Eswatini Air joins reduction of green gases

Lwazi Dlamini for Eswatini Daily News

Eswatini Air has taken an important initiative to contribute towards the protection of the environment by joining the IATA CO2 Connect initiative. ^ Read more...

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18 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

SAA adds morning Gaborone flight

Southern Africa’s Travel News Desk

South African Airways (SAA) has launched a morning flight between Gaborone and Johannesburg from 18 August. ^ Read more...

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13 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Airlink goes long-haul through expanded codeshare with Qatar Airways

Rebecca Campbell for Engineering News

Airlink and major global carrier Qatar Airways have announced an expansion of their codesharing agreement. From August 31, Airlink will put its flight code, 4Z, on Qatar-operated flights and start marketing Doha in Qatar as its first long-haul destination. ^ Read more...

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10 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Air Zimbabwe relaunches JNB flights

Southern Africa’s Travel News Desk

Air Zimbabwe will resume flights between Harare and Johannesburg from 19 August three times a week. ^ Read more...

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5 Aug. AASA AIRLINE MEMBER NEWS

Emirates, SAA expand codeshare partnership opening 9 more African destinations for travellers

Khawaja Dawood for Travels Dubai

Travellers flying with Emirates and South African Airways (SAA) will soon enjoy easier access to more destinations across southern and central Africa after both airlines announced a major expansion of their long-running codeshare partnership. ^ Read more...

Market Analysis, Reports & News: IATA & ICAO

IATA Economic Reports & News

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31 Aug. IATA JULY AIR PASSENGER REPORT

African Airlines record strong performance

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African airlines continued to record a strong performance, with international RPK increasing by 6.4% year-on-year (YoY), the second-fastest pace across regions. A larger 9.0% YoY expansion in capacity, however, reduced the PLF by 1.8 percentage points to 74.1% (-1.8 ppt compared to July 2025).

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“The peak Northern summer travel season is a mostly positive story for air travel. Overall growth of 0.2% in July was achieved despite year-on-year collective declines by carriers in North America and the Middle East. Notably, traffic through the Gulf hubs continues its recovery trajectory. Although high fuel costs, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions continue, carriers are expressing confidence in demand for the last part of the year with an almost 3% expansion of seat capacity in September.”
Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA Senior VP Sustainability & Chief Economist. ^ Read more...

31 Aug. IATA JULY AIR CARGO REPORT

Air Cargo demand on the up

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African airlines saw a 1.1% year-on-year (YoY) increase in demand for air cargo in July, the weakest performance of all regions. Capacity increased by 4.1% YoY.

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“Air cargo demand grew 3.9% year-on-year in July. While all regions recorded growth, airlines in Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America accounted for more than 90% of the overall increase. Dedicated freighters gained market share as belly-hold traffic declined, possibly reflecting demand for larger or specialist shipments and the operational flexibility that freighters can provide. Looking ahead, the outlook remains broadly positive, supported by manufacturing activity, export orders and global trade. However, higher fuel prices, geopolitical tensions and tariff uncertainty will need to be watched carefully.”
Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA Senior VP Sustainability & Chief Economist. ^ Read more...

ICAO Reports & News

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2 Sep. ICAO STATEMENT: SAFETY & SECURITY OF CIVIL AVIATION IN CONFLICT ZONES

ICAO statement on the safety and security of international civil aviation

ICAO is reiterating its calls for stronger commitments from all Member States to protect civilian aircraft from all risks arising from conflict zones. This message comes as the risk of weapons targeting civilian planes grows worldwide. Long-range weapons systems, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), global navigation satellite system radio frequency interference, and advanced air defence systems are among the military technologies jeopardizing civilian aviation. ^ Read more...

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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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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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18 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...