‘Changing the African Aviation Narrative’ will be the theme of the 11th African Airlines Association (AFRAA) convention, scheduled to take place from May 7-9 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The event, to be hosted by Ethiopian Airlines, will bring together over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe.
The convention is one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. Several African airline CEOs and aviation industry thought-leaders will be present at the event.
A comprehensive programme has been lined up to facilitate discussions on various salient topics, master classes, networking opportunities at social events and B2B sessions through a conferencing application. Delegates will have the opportunity to network and discuss developments in the industry and forge business partnerships.
There will also be an exhibition of aviation-related products and solutions.
“In light of Africa’s vast landmass, its population accounting for 16% of the world population, and its low share of global trade of 2%, the continent is an excellent opportunity to develop air transport. However, as a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3% of the world market – it is time to take action to change this narrative,” AFRAA said in a statement.
Speaking about the significance of attainment of sustainability that will change the narrative of Africa’s air transport, AFRAA Secretary General Abdérahmane Berthé, emphasised the importance of dialogue among stakeholders and collaborative initiatives.
“AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines are excited to stage this convention for the travel ecosystem stakeholders to meet, deliberate on strategies to enhance efficiencies, create synergies, develop intra-Africa connectivity, and ensure business continuity that will redefine the narrative of the African air transport industry.”
Mesfin Bekele, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, added: “This forum for stakeholders will showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra manifested in the growing opportunities for all in the continent’s aviation industry.”