Spotlight on Africa: Youthful and Primed for Growth

November 27, 2014  | Written by Marisa Garcia

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Africa’s aviation industry has encountered troubles, but there are success stories which reflect a bright future.

Amidst financial losses and accusations of being the “Shame of Africa,” a Kenya Airways shareholder shot back, pointing out the CEO’s commitment to improvement which includes passenger experience enhancements like the airline’s new B737s with in-flight entertainment and new interiors.

South African Airways installed eye-catching new interiors this year, developed with renowned London design firm Priestmangoode, which blend a modern aesthetic with African tradition.

“Its design reflects the nation, which will appeal both at home and globally, and offers great commitment to the passenger experience.”€”Luke Hawes, Director at PriestmanGoode

Small powerhouse RwandAir is another success story, recently attaining IATA Operational Safety Audit Certification. General manager Commercial, Gobena Mikael, announced orders for two additional aircraft: a Bombardier Q400NextGen with planned delivery in 2015 and another B737-800NG SkyInterior for 2016.

Namibia’s national carrier Air Namibia aims to expand its routes to the Middle East through strategic partnerships.

Africa’s airports have been preparing for tomorrow by adopting the latest technologies. Kigali International Airport installed automated passport scanners and Cape Town International upgraded its passport control area in 2012.  Developments continue despite a number of challenges in recent years.

“Airport development across Africa is beginning to gather pace with governments and investors looking at opportunities to enhance existing infrastructure,” says Joe Bates of Airport World.

Growth in the African continent is driven by youth which will enter the workforce in the coming decades, Airbus predicts.

“A young population with an increasing level of education is without doubt one of Africa’s main assets, and one of the key components of the continent’s attractiveness.”

– Airbus Global Market Forecast.

Boeing believes Africa’s developing economies will drive the regions’ growth, crediting “an economy based on rising incomes, consumption, employment and productivity.”