Boeing 737 MAX 8
Image: Boeing
Data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) show that Africa has already recovered 93% of its pre-pandemic capacity.
The recovery, however, is not the same across the continent, with some areas recovering earlier than others. IATA says most airlines could start making net profits later this year, with passenger numbers already returning to pre-pandemic levels or even surpassing them.
The air market situation in Africa is much better than in the rest of the world, which has already recorded an 85% recovery. Full recovery is expected in 2024, with travel in North and East Africa exceeding pre-pandemic numbers.
However, IATA points out that connectivity in Africa is very low. Although the region has 18% of the global population, it accounts for just 2.1% of global travel.
"Another challenge facing aviation in Africa that is familiar to everyone here is the lack of connectivity. Traveling in Africa is a challenge. Distances that shouldn't take a few hours can take days simply because connectivity doesn't exist. For example, the route between Kigali and Luanda, which currently takes between nine and 20 hours, would take three hours on a direct flight,” said IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al Awadhi.
Furthermore, operating costs for airlines in Africa are large because of the value of jet fuel, which is significantly higher than in other regions of the world.
Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
|
