Aviation Africa summit participants share their thoughts on growth of Africa’s aviation sector

The Aviation Africa summit, themed 'Flying Forward together - developing partnerships for Africa’s future skies', kicked off yesterday, bringing together executives, policymakers, and service providers in the aviation industry. Participants gathered to discuss the pressing issues facing the African aviation sector and the potential for growth in the region. CNBC Africa had the opportunity to speak with some of the attendees to gain insights into the progress and challenges of the aviation industry on the continent. One of the key themes that emerged from the discussions was the importance of initiatives like Saturn in unlocking the African aviation market. Participants expressed a collective understanding that coordinated efforts are essential to drive forward the aviation sector in Africa. There was a palpable sense of commitment from stakeholders to operationalize Saturn and overcome barriers to growth. The presence of global delegates at the summit underscored Africa's position as a burgeoning market in the aviation industry, with significant opportunities for expansion. Technology was highlighted as a crucial enabler for the modernization of Africa's airspaces and the enhancement of service efficiency. As aviation continues to experience rapid growth, the need for seamless connectivity between countries becomes increasingly vital. Participants emphasized the imperative of building unified airspaces that facilitate smooth air travel across the continent. The integration of technology into aviation operations was identified as a key driver for achieving this goal. Moreover, the push for the implementation of a single Africa air travel market was a prominent topic of discussion at the summit. Participants underscored the benefits of creating a more interconnected and accessible aviation network across Africa. The parallel drawn with the free skies in Europe and the United States highlighted the potential for substantial growth in the African aviation industry through increased connectivity and collaboration. The introduction of initiatives like the single Africa air travel market and the push for a unified passport system were lauded as significant steps towards fostering greater regional integration and market expansion. Reflecting on the progress made since the inception of the aviation summit, attendees expressed optimism about the future of the aviation sector in Africa. The influx of investments from various companies and the positive feedback received during the event painted a promising picture of the opportunities that lie ahead. The endorsement of Saturn by industry leaders, such as the chairman of Qatar Air, reinforced the belief in the transformative potential of coordinated efforts in propelling the African aviation market forward. In conclusion, the Aviation Africa summit served as a platform for meaningful discussions and collaborations aimed at unlocking Africa's aviation potential. The resounding call for unity, technological innovation, and regional connectivity echoed throughout the event, setting the stage for a new era of growth and development in the African aviation sector.