Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Agenzia Fides)- African airspace is ever busier but local airlines are in danger of losing considerable market quota to foreign competitors. This was said by African experts Nairobi, Kenya, at an African Airlines Association meeting to discuss the future of commercial aviation on the continent.
There is growing demand for Africa as a destination by businessmen and international trading operators because of new economic opportunities offered by rising oil prices and development in new sectors, such as African telecommunications.
Growing commercial air traffic risks being the taken over by the rich airlines of the Persian-Arabian- Gulf countries. These companies are increasing their fleets in quantity and quality (for example some of the largest buyers of the new Airbus A 380 are airlines in this region), and they are hiring African managers taking them away from local companies. “This will kill aviation in Africa, we prefer to create partnerships with foreign airlines” said African Airlines Association, secretary general Christian Folly-Kossi.
Another problem afflicting African airlines, experts say, is the high cost of financial loans and insurance. International finance and insurance companies consider Africa's civil aviation an investment at high risk, because of air accidents involving aircraft in leasing. Several African operators are on the list of companies not allowed to fly in European Union airspace, because of the poor maintenance given to their aircraft.
However some African airlines are renewing their fleets with the financial support of their respective governments. Experts say to fight foreign competition African operators should unite. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 6/12/2007 righe 24 parole 300)
