However, despite its benefits, the dynamics of air transport are unevenly distributed, with the African continent facing unique challenges that have hindered its full integration into the global aviation ecosystem.

The vast and often rugged landscapes make air travel not just a luxury but a necessity for many. However, the costs associated with flying within Africa remain disproportionately high compared to other regions.

It is expensive in Africa despite a high need for it because of the terrain of the region. For instance, it is often more expensive to fly from Kigali to Nairobi than from Rome to Paris, despite the latter covering a longer distance.

In this video, The Perspective show hosts Aby Agina, a financial communications strategist and proprietor of Abyron Media Group who discusses the paradox Africa faces.

Agina says that this steep pricing is a multifaceted issue, driven by several factors that have long plagued the aviation industry in Africa. Among the core challenges that exacerbate these costs are high operational expenses, cross-border restrictions, regional insecurity, and a lack of (or poor) cooperation between airlines.

“Common laymen in Africa believe that flying is a luxury, yet in elsewhere it is treated as a necessity. This perception is deeply rooted in a reality where limited options and high operating costs elevate flying to an elite status,” Agina notes.

Research indicates that fuel prices in Africa tend to be higher than global averages due to a combination of limited refineries, logistical challenges in transportation, and taxes. In addition, maintenance costs for aircrafts are high because many spare parts or expertise need to be imported, adding to the already significant expenses airlines face.

While the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999 aimed to liberalize African skies and foster cooperation between African airlines, the full implementation of this policy has been slow. Instead of open skies that allow for free movement across borders, many countries continue to impose restrictive bilateral agreements, limiting the ability of airlines to operate across Africa freely.

Agina explains why several national airlines in Africa have struggled to stay afloat citing Nigeria’s national carrier that has failed to stand the test of time and is no longer operational.

Similarly, the East African Airlines, which was jointly formed by East African Community countries shortly after independence, collapsed due to internal differences. Luckily each of the countries has since established their own airlines with RwandAir ranked as the fastest-growing in the region.

Despite the challenges, there are bright spots in African aviation as Agina highlights several strategies that could be implemented further improve the aviation business. They include the following;

1. Open Skies and Cooperation: Full implementation of the Yamoussoukro decision would allow airlines to operate freely across African borders, increasing competition, reducing costs, and offering more flight options for travelers.

2. Fuel and Tax Reforms: Reducing taxes on aviation fuel and creating more local refineries could lower operating costs for airlines, making air travel more affordable.

3. Infrastructure Development: Continued investment in airport infrastructure is essential for facilitating more frequent and reliable flights. Governments and private investors must work together to improve facilities and connectivity across the continent.

4. Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging partnerships between governments, airlines and international carriers could improve operational efficiency, introduce best practices, and enable knowledge transfer.

5. Focus on Regional Hubs: Establishing and strengthening regional hubs in key cities across Africa could streamline air traffic and make flying between countries more affordable.

While the African aviation sector faces numerous challenges, the right combination of policy reform, infrastructure investment, and cooperation between airlines could make air travel more accessible and affordable.

With dedicated efforts, African countries can harness the full potential of their skies, facilitating greater connectivity, economic growth, and development across the continent.

Air Travel in Africa is more expensive compared to other parts of the world