Africa Pushes Single Air Transport Market at ICAO Assembly

By Mohammed Dahiru Lawal

Africa is using the ongoing 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal to push for the full implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship African Union initiative designed to liberalise the continent’s skies.

AU officials say SAATM could create over 150,000 new jobs and add more than 4.5 billion US dollars to Africa’s GDP. Since 2022, the initiative has already unlocked 108 new intra-African routes, cutting travel times, lowering fares and boosting trade and tourism.

AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, Lerato Mataboge, told delegates that Africa’s aviation priorities must shape the global agenda. “Our continent’s collective commitment will amplify its influence and elevate Africa to greater heights in global aviation governance,” she said.

The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) added that a fully open market would empower African airlines to compete globally, while giving consumers more choice and affordable options.

The continent’s coordinated push comes as eight African countries vie for election to the ICAO Council, a move leaders say will ensure Africa’s voice is heard in international aviation policy-making.