Call for African Air Services Liberalization

Geneva (Switzerland) – July 10, 2014 – An IATA report has highlighted the benefits of intra-Africa air service liberalization. Conducted by independent economic consultants InterVISTAS, the report outlines the benefits that would accrue if 12 African nations were to implement the 1999 Yamoussoukro Decision.

This report demonstrates beyond doubt the tremendous potential for African aviation if the shackles are taken off, says Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO. “The additional services generated by liberalization between just 12 key markets will provide an extra 155,000 jobs and $1.3 billion in annual GDP. A potential five million passengers a year are being denied the chance to travel between these markets because of unnecessary restrictions on establishing air routes.”

Aviation already supports 6.9 million jobs and more than $80 billion in GDP across Africa. The InterVISTAS research demonstrates that liberalization will create opportunities for further significant employment growth and economic development. The jobs and GDP impact for most African countries.

Report prepared by:
Inter VISTAS Consulting Ltd.
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