The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) is gearing up for its 12th Aviation Stakeholders Convention (ASC) and the inaugural African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit, taking place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from May 12th to 15th, 2024.
Connecting and Securing African Skies
The theme for the ASC, « Beyond connecting African aviation, » reflects AFRAA’s commitment to fostering collaboration and growth within the African aviation industry. This high-profile event is expected to attract over 500 delegates from across the globe, including industry leaders, airlines, and aviation authorities. Discussions will center on strategies to enhance efficiency, create synergies, and develop stronger intra-African connectivity.
Safety remains a top priority for AFRAA. Held back-to-back with the ASC, the inaugural African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit will focus on « Championing African aviation safety together. » This critical event, co-organized with the Flight Safety Foundation (FSF), will promote best practices and encourage collaboration in the pursuit of a safer African aviation landscape.
A Platform for Progress
Welcoming attendees, AFRAA Secretary General Mr. Abderahmane Berthe emphasizes the importance of the event: « The Convention and Safety Summit provide a crucial platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. »
Mr. Mesfin Tasew Bekele, Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group, the official carrier for the events, echoes this sentiment: « These events will bring together top aviation experts to address challenges faced by African airlines and unlock the vast potential of air transport in the region. »
Collaboration is Key
The events highlight the need for collaboration between airlines, policymakers, and aviation authorities. Stakeholders play a critical role in advocating for policies that facilitate growth, encourage competition, and streamline business operations. Strategic investments in infrastructure, training, and streamlined regulations are all crucial for a thriving African aviation sector.
A Warm Welcome to Addis Ababa
Ethiopian Airlines is honored to host these prestigious events. Mr. Bekele concludes by stating, « Together, we can overcome the challenges, unleash the potential, and create a thriving and sustainable aviation sector that benefits not only our airlines but also our economies and communities. »
The 12th Aviation Stakeholders Convention and the inaugural African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit promise to be a landmark event for African aviation. With a focus on collaboration, safety, and growth, these events have the potential to propel African aviation to new heights.