AviaDev Insight Africa

Welcome to the fifth edition of AviaDev Insight Africa's Connectivity update, a podcast that offers insights into new route developments in Africa. Hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa, this podcast covers new route developments and expansions in the aviation industry on the African continent. In this episode, we discuss: Ethiopian Airlines' Summer 24 schedule, which includes new destinations and increased frequencies. They also highlight the airline's focus on connecting Africa to the world, discussing Ethiopian Airlines' expansion plans, including the addition of Warsaw as a potential new destination. FlySafair's new route from Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalanga Cemair becomes the latest airline to serve the growing Johannesburg-Harare route Airlink's new routes, including Bloomfontein-Durban and continued growth in Malawi Qatar Airways changes to their Southern Africa schedule Air Tanzania's new route to Dubai Rumour Mill: Air Cote d'Ivoire's fleet and expansion plans Emirates' potential return to Nigeria Air Peace's potential route to London China Southern's possible flight to Accra. Connect with Sean here Connect with Behramjee here Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone that you feel would benefit from listening and subscribe to never miss another episode

This episode is something a little bit different and hugely exciting. Those avid listeners know that each month we are now delivering a connectivity update where we summarise and analyse the route changes to, from, and within Africa in the previous month. Kenya Airways announced some huge changes to the network and to discuss this we are joined by Martin Gitonga, head of network planning and alliances at the airline to discuss the thought process behind the strategy. I was joined for this interview by Chief Regional troublemaker, Sean Mendis and Behramjee Ghadially, an aviation consultant and Africa specialist. The podcast is wide-ranging and discusses new routes, codeshares, scheduling, visas, and much more, so fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the episode.

In this episode, Jon and Victo discuss the need for better accessibility and communication for differently able travelers in Africa, as well as the importance of creating uniform global standards. They also explore the role of airlines and customers in driving change and using technology to improve accessibility. Victo shares her experiences and highlights the work of the Tunaweza Foundation in supporting people with disabilities. The episode concludes with a discussion on Victo's TED Talk and involvement with the Obama Foundation. 00:00 Introduction 01:19 Discussing African aviation accessibility 06:15 Challenges faced by differently able travelers 13:05 The need for better facilitation by airlines and airports 14:47 Creating uniform global standards 15:44 The role of airlines and customers in driving change 18:10 Using technology to improve accessibility 24:18 Engagement with airlines and the need for follow-up 26:30 The Tunaweza Foundation and its mission 31:54 Victo's TED Talk and involvement with the Obama Foundation 35:16 Closing remarks Connect with Victo: https://twitter.com/VictoNalule https://www.linkedin.com/in/victo-nalule https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47UWiWAVgAg https://tunawezafoundation.org/ https://www.facebook.com/victo.nalule/ https://twitter.com/TunawezaO https://twitter.com/TunawezaO/status/1726908954784280946/photo/1 https://www.newvision.co.ug/category/news/disability-champion-nalule-to-present-at-hiv-NV_146931

In this episode of AviaDev Insight Africa, host Jon Howell interviews Dr. Namhla Tshetu, the Executive Manager for Corporate Services at Airlink, Africa's largest private carrier. Together, they discuss Namhla's role in aeropolitical affairs and her aviation journey. They also touch upon the Airlinkers booklet and The Link program, sharing its successes. Namhla talks about her recently completed PhD on open skies in Africa and the potential for its realization. A deep dive into the thorny issue of aeropolitical negotiations and market access conversations, especially in southern Africa. Airlink's strategy post-SAA partnership and working with CEO Rodger Foster. Finally, they touch on Airlink's future plans, hinting at consolidation and potential expansion. Connect with Namhla here Download the Airlinkers booklet here Head over to www.AviaDev.com to sign up for event updates. Finally, as always, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe for free to ensure you never miss another episode.

Welcome to the fourth edition of AviaDev Insight Africa's Connectivity update, a podcast that offers insights into new route developments in Africa. Hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa, this podcast covers new route developments and expansions in the aviation industry on the African continent. For this month's episode, Jon is joined by two industry analysts, Sean Mendis and Dr. James Pearson, to discuss and analyze these developments. In this episode, the podcast discusses: TAAG Angola closing Madrid and moving to a daily Lagos service SAA's new route from Johannesburg to Perth Discover's continued expansion in Africa Malawian increasing its Johannesburg routes Ethiopian Airlines' daily flights to Toronto and its North American ambitions Fastjet's reduction in Harare-Johannesburg flights Air Senegal's strategy shift, including new strategic partnerships The rumors about Gabon launching a national carrier. Connect with Sean here Connect with James here Subscribe to James' weekly route newsletter here Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone that you feel would benefit from listening and subscribe to never miss another episode

This episode was recorded on location in London at the Headquarters of Zero on 30th November 2023. Zero, https://www.zero.co/ is a pioneer in the field of sustainable aviation fuel and I visited Kwame Bekoe, an industry colleagues and a personal friend, who is serving as the Commercial Director of the business. Kwame Bekoe has a rich aviation history including working with GECAS, a large international lessor, and before this over 10 years with Airbus. After completing an MBA with Columbia Business School he embarked on his latest journey with Zero to revolutionise the industry. In the episode, we discuss: The mission and origin story of the company and its links to Formula1 Why Kwame chose to join Zero after completing his MBA How the technology works Industry partnerships with Boeing and Rolls-Royce The biggest challenges right now The size of the opportunity for Africa to lead the charge with new fuels. The roadmap for the coming years. You can follow/ connect with Kwame here

This episode was recorded on location in Kampala, Uganda where I attended the 55th African Airlines Association AGA, hosted by our friends at Uganda Airlines, During the 3 days, I took the opportunity to sit down with Raphael Haddad, President of Jetcraft commercial who spent 18 years working with Bombardier in Africa, Europe and the Middle East bringing the Q400, C-series which became the A220 and also the Crj 1000 to the continent. He set up Jetcraft commercial in 2015 where he focuses on the global procurement and placement of commercial aircraft, so together we explore the current market trends and opportunities affecting Africa We discuss: Is there a trend towards rightsizing in Africa? Is the demand for widebodies waning? With interest rates high and finance hard to secure, are there more airlines looking for short term dry/damp/wet leasing arrangements The costs of leasing right now Will there be consolidation coming to the market? Jetcraft Commercial are here to help you with your aircraft needs, so please contact the team via the website www.jetcraftcommercial.com Follow / Connect with Raphael here https://www.linkedin.com/in/raphaelhaddad/ If you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe to ensure you never miss another episode.

This episode is the third of a new format that focuses on sub-Saharan African air route development, with a specific focus on routes that are due to start or cease in the next quarter. My guests for this podcast are: Aviation consultant, analyst and commentator, Sean Mendis, who brings over 20 years of experience in the industry, including stints managing airports, commercial airlines, and also cargo airlines in Africa and the Middle East. Behramjee Ghadially, an aviation consultant with over 20 years of experience (9 of which has been in Africa) supporting airlines globally with their network planning and strategy. In this episode, we cover: Airlink moving to daily Malawi from mid December, whilst SAA has announced they are pulling out. Etihad's Abu-Dhabi to Nairobi service and why Etihad has a small footprint compared to the other Middle Eastern carriers FlyNamibia to launch Luanda, Maun and Victoria Falls in 2024 Jambojet launching Mombasa-Zanzibar with a dash 8 TAAG Angola increasing Sao Paulo frequencies flydubai ordering 787s and what this means for Africa ET's Dubai Airshow orders and how they plan to deploy the aircraft SAA to launch Gqeberha from Johannesburg Rumour Mill Malawi Airlines adds an ex-asky 737-700. Will we finally see the new routes they have been teasing for months? Madagascar Airlines. What's next there? Emirates back to Nigeria. Anytime soon? Air Tanzania to start USA Did we miss a route? Let me know Email Jon Connect/ Follow Behramjee Ghadially here Connect/ follow Sean Mendis here Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe and never miss another episode.

This episode was recorded 7th November 2023 on location in Windhoek, Namibia I spoke with Bisey Uirab, the CEO of the Namibia Airports Company, who is responsible for the operation and development of the country's airports. Bisey himself has a long history of leading multiple private sector and state organizations including the Namibia Ports Authority, where he served as CEO for 10 years before becoming CEO of NAC in 2019. In the episode, we discuss: The connectivity and aviation development ambitions of Namibia The factors attracting new carriers to the country Airport infrastructure development and investment plans What Namibia hopes to achieve by hosting AviaDev Africa 2024 You can follow NAC via LinkedIn here Check out www.AviaDev.com to sign up for event updates. Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe for free to ensure you never miss another episode.

This episode was recorded on 7th November on location in Windhoek, Namibia, where AviaDev Africa 2024 will take place June 19-21. Today's guest is at the helm of one of the most important stakeholders, FlyNamibia, who will be heavily involved in the event as an official carrier Andre Compion is a well-known Namibian businessman and the Managing Director of FlyNamibia. In the episode, we discuss: How and why Fly Namibia was created The thinking behind the equity stake from Airlink The current network and fleet The recent IATA membership and what the airline aims to do with this New route developments You can follow FlyNamibia's via their social media handles here: LinkedIn Instagram To find out more about 2024's event, visit www.aviadev.com to sign up for event updates. Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe for free to ensure you never miss another episode.

In this episode, we dive into a topic that has been dominating conversations over the last couple of years, specifically aviation's role in supporting the drive towards net zero and a more sustainable industry. To do this I am joined by Dirk Singer, the Head of Sustainability at Simpliflying, a consulting firm that is dedicated to supporting a greener and more environmentally sustainable future for air travel. Together we discuss: How best to address the topic of sustainability with industry stakeholders? What Simpliflying is aiming to achieve with the book? Should Africa be subject to the same sustainability targets as everyone else, when its aviation industry is unprofitable? Who should finance sustainability? What can African aviation and governmental stakeholders be doing now to capitalise on the opportunity? Buy the book here Listen to the sustainability in the air podcast now here or find it on all platforms Follow Dirk on LinkedIn Follow Simpliflying on LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode, click subscribe to never miss another episode and please share with someone you feel would benefit from listening

This episode is the second of a new format that focuses on sub-Saharan African air route development, with a specific focus on routes that are due to start or cease in the next quarter. My guests for this podcast are: Aviation consultant, analyst and commentator, Sean Mendis, who brings over 20 years of experience in the industry, including stints managing airports, commercial airlines, and also cargo airlines in Africa and the Middle East. Tatenda Karuwa - a journalist writing for Simple Flying, the largest aviation website globally https://simpleflying.com/ In this episode, we cover: SAA to launch Sao Paulo from both CPT and JHB SAA opening Abidjan Uganda Airlines launching Mumbai and Lagos Ibom Air launching Accra Air Tanzania swapping Mumbai to the Boeing 737 MAX 9 Ethiopian Airlines increasing Accra and Seychelles Fastjet increasing frequencies from Bulawayo to Johannesburg Rumour Mill: Emirates to return to Nigeria Ghana Airlines latest TAAG to launch LGW Did we miss a route? Let me know Email Jon Connect/ Follow Tatenda Karuwa here Connect/ follow Sean Mendis here Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe and never miss another episode.

This podcast was recorded on 18th October in Dakar, Senegal, where I was attending the ACI Africa Annual General Assembly. Senegal is also the home base of the African Civil Aviation Commission or AFCAC who have been very visible and busy sensitising stakeholders in terms of the benefits of the single African air transport market. In June at AviaDev, AFCAC and AviaDev signed an MoU to support each other in the fields of communication and route development. In this episode, Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General, AFCAC and I discuss: Status update. What is the current state of progress? How do you respond to airline CEOs who don't necessarily support SAATM? Have there been new intra-African routes launched that may not have happened before SAATM? Have AFCAC been successful in solving market access disputes? Are AFCAC lobbying for visa reform? The goals and objectives of the next 2 years Follow AFCAC on LinkedIn here Watch Adefunke's lifetime achievement award interview here As always, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe and never miss another episode.

This episode is an opportunity to understand what we can expect from the upcoming AFRAA AGA taking place in Kampala, Uganda in November 2023. Together we discuss: The African aviation recovery AFRAA's current priorities Preview of sessions, speakers and topics to be addressed at the AGA What will be on offer for the delegates Find out more about the AFRAA AGA here Hit that share button to share these insights with someone you feel will benefit from listening and see you for the next episode soon.

In this episode, we are heading to Germany to meet the CCO of discover airlines an airline delivering a huge number of international tourists to the African continent. In this episode, we discover... The origin story of the airline The current network and how it has been developed The fleet composition and product offering The market composition The rebranding exercise Future African destinations How airports and destinations can influence Discover's planning decisions The Namibian market. Why has it been such a success? You can connect with Helmut on LinkedIn here Visit the discover website Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to subscribe and never miss another episode.

In this episode, we welcome back a previous guest, Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair, a low-cost South African airline that is about to embark on a regional expansion launching new routes to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique. Together we discuss: Why now is the right time to enter these new markets What is driving the demand on the routes? How FlySafair expect the routes and load factors to develop and the role local partners will play in this development How AviaDev has supported the conversations around these new route developments The impact of the FlySafair and South African Rugby team strategic partnership on the business Are the immediate plans to continue to expand or consolidate? If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to never miss another episode.

In this episode, I am joined by flydubai, a very important international airline serving multiple points in Africa, which has just announced a brand new route, taking its African network to 11 destinations in 10 countries. The airline has announced it will serve Mombasa on the east coast of Kenya 4 times per week from January 2024. In this podcast, we hear directly from the airline as to what has prompted this new route announcement and also to get a general feel of FlyDubai's approach to development in Africa, with Sudhir Sreedharan, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations at flydubai. Connect/ Follow Sudhir on LinkedIn here For those listening, you can now head across to our new website www.AviaDev.com to see the theme for our 2024 event and get a flavour of our event plans. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating to enable us to be found by even more people, and feel free to share the link with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening.

This episode is the first of a new format that focuses on sub-Saharan African air route development, with a specific focus on routes that are due to start or cease in the next quarter. We also have a rumour mill section focusing on those routes that could be on the horizon. My guest for this podcast is aviation consultant, analyst and commentator, Sean Mendis, who brings over 20 years of experience in the industry, including stints managing airports, commercial airlines, and also cargo airlines in Africa and the Middle East. In this episode, we cover: Upcoming New Routes in next quarter: Safair to Maputo (4x week), Livingstone (4x week), Harare (daily) and Victoria Falls (3x week) (early October). ASKY to Nairobi (01 October) (3x week) and has recently launched Luanda (3x week) Uganda Airlines to Lagos (3xweek) (19th October) / Mumbai (7th October) (3xweek) Flynas from Riyadh and Jeddah 3 x weekly each starting in October Air Peace to Jeddah via Kano from October Other routes announced: Flydubai to Mombasa in January (4 x weekly) Brussels Airlines to Nairobi next summer (6 x weekly) and daily on Kigali Rumour Mill: Emirates to return to Nigeria United Nigeria Airlines gets designation to the US, UK, Netherlands and elsewhere Uganda Airlines to Saudi Arabia Malawi teasing Kigali, Pemba and Nampula Thanks to everyone out there for joining us. You can connect with or follow Sean on LinkedIn here Any comments about the show and how we can improve it, drop me an email. Finally, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave the show a review so we can be found by more people (just scroll to the "ratings and reviews section and pop in a comment). Hit the share button and share the episode with someone in your network you feel would benefit from listening. Don't forget to subscribe to make sure you never miss another episode.

In this episode, we travel to the Republic of Angola, in southern Africa where the new Luanda International Airport will soon come online with the ambition to become a major hub for Africa. Ahead of the inauguration, the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Angola is hosting an online event, on Tuesday 19th September which will offer potential investors an overview of the project itself and associated investment opportunities. To preview the event, it's a great honour to welcome back a previous guest, Hon Minister Ricardo Viegas d'Abreu, the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Angola. In the episode, we discuss: • How the government views the future management of the major gateway airport to Angola? • Why any potential partners listening should look to invest in Angola? • Why our viewers should attend the event on 19th September and who the event is aimed at? • Who will we hear from during the event and what individual topics will they cover? There will also be an opportunity to arrange private one-to-one meetings with the Ministry too. If you are interested in attending, registration can be made at https://mintrans-tenders.ao/

This episode was recorded on June 16th 2023. Mr Foster has been instrumental in the growth of Airlink since its inception in 1992. Airlink operates over 50 commercial jetliners operating to more than 45 destinations in 14 African countries and to St Helena Island, making it the largest privately-owned regional airline in Africa. Airlink continues to expand its route network, connecting more African cities and promoting tourism and trade across the continent. We take this opportunity to discuss his journey and passion for the industry with Ato Girma Wake and Sanjeev Gadhia the 2022 award recipient. Moderator: Ato Girma Wake, Patron, AviaDev In conversation with: Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO & Founder, Astral Aviation Linden Birns, Communications Advisor, Airlink

This podcast is a recording of a panel session from June 16th 2023. Together, we discuss what are airlines looking for and how airports can work with their stakeholders to deliver innovative approaches that will ultimately create sustainable route networks. MODERATOR: Refilwe Ledwaba, Founder, Girls Fly Africa In conversation with: Tim Harris, Partner, Consulum Nowel Ngala, Director, Commercial & Ground Operations, ASKY Hendrik Du Preez, Vice President Sales - Africa, Qatar Airways Christine Mwakatobe, Managing Director, Kilimnajaro Airports Development Company Minosoa Rakotozafy, Head of Aeronautical Activities, Ravinala Airports If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening

This podcast is a recording of a panel session from June 15th 2023. Join us as we discuss how the OEMs have supported their customers to adapt their strategy to open new routes and deliver new revenue streams during and since the pandemic. MODERATOR: Aaron Munetsi, CEO, Airlines Association of Southern Africa In conversation with: Dominique Dumas, Vice President Sales Africa & Indian Ocean, ATR Joep Ellers, Airline Marketing Director - Africa, Airbus James Bosse, Director Sales, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Raphael Haddad, President, Jetcraft Commercial Stephan Hannemann, VP Sales & Marketing, Head of MEA, Embraer Jason Sutcliffe, Regional Marketing Director, Rolls-Royce

This episode is a recording from June 15th. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities facing African airline CEOs as they work to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. Can African airlines prioritize sustainability over profit in the short-term? MODERATOR: Hilka Birns, Aviation Journalist, ch-aviation In conversation with: Jenifer Bamuturaki, Chief Executive Officer , Uganda Airlines Eduardo Fairen, Chief Executive Officer, TAAG Linden Burns, Communications Advisor, Airlink Allan Kilavuka, Group MD & CEO, Kenya Airways

This is a recording of the AviaDev Africa panel session from June 15th focused on How the latest technological innovations enable the African aviation industry to operate more efficiently and sustainably. MODERATOR: Habba Hadijah Kamwesiga, Head of Marketing & Communications , RwandAir In conversation with: Richard Ortega, Commercial Director EMEA, Kiu System Solutions Judy Waruiru, Managing Director, DPO Pay Javed Malik, Chair of the Advisory Board, Ink Innovation Brett Preston, Executive | Aerospace and Aviation, Technodyn International Manish Shrivastava, Co-Founder , Tourish

This is a recording of the session entitled "Creating a winning formula for airport hotels in Africa: Understanding the requirements for success" Moderator: Trevor Ward, Principal, W Hospitality Group In conversation with Shamil Manek, Director, The Merwest Company

In just over 2 weeks, the African aviation industry will convene in Nairobi, Kenya for AviaDev Africa. We have a panel dedicated to discussing new technologies at the event. Post Covid, digitisation is one of the hottest topics in the industry and one of the companies blazing a trail in this space is Technodyn International, which already support a multitude of companies across the aviation value chain. In this episode, we discuss: How Technodyn and IFS are related and what solutions are on offer How Technodyn International Supports the aviation industry The tangible benefits of deploying the IFS solution Understanding the level of technological adoption currently within African aviation The capital investment required to implement the IFS solution To find out more you can visit the Technodyn website here Connect with Brett on LinkedIn Connect with Esenthren on LinkedIn Meet the team at AviaDev in Nairobi 14-16th June 2023 If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening

In this episode, we meet the leader of a true African success story. Since its inception in 2006, DPO Pay has played a vital role in changing the payments landscape across Africa. Together, we discover how DPO supports its airline customers to process transactions seamlessly and prevent fraud, whilst simplifying the process for the general public and making air travel more accessible. Find out more about DPO Pay here Connect or follow Judy on LinkedIn here If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening.

This podcast was recorded 10th May on-site at the AFRAA aviation stakeholders convention in Addis Ababa, where I was joined by Rodger Whittle, The commercial director for Africa at Kiu, a company with a global footprint that offers an innovative and robust Passenger Service system and suite of airline Solutions. Rodger himself has vast African aviation experience and is now leading the charge to support airlines to reduce their cost of distribution. Today's episode is supported by an article that is featured in the current edition African skies, AFRAA's magazine which focuses on containing costs affecting airline distribution in Africa. READ THE ARTICLE HERE Together, we discuss: The current state of airline distribution in Africa Why Kiu's solutions make sense for Africa Kiu's full suite of solutions Future trends affecting the technology and airline distribution space You can connect with Rodger via LinkedIn here Find out more about Kiu's solutions here You will also be able to meet Rodger and the team at AviaDev in Nairobi this June.

This podcast was recorded May 10th in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the AFRAA aviation stakeholders convention which was hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. One of the secrets of Ethiopian airlines' success is their drive to constantly innovate and develop. The aviation academy is one example of the group's has diversification and has recently been upgraded to an aviation university. Together, we talk about how Africa can develop the skills required to support human capital development on the continent. To find out more about the University, you can click here To follow or connect with Kassie on LinkedIn click here If you enjoyed this podcast, please forward it to one person in your network that you think would benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you at AviaDev Africa in Nairobi this June.

For this episode, I am joined by Kevin Markette, General Manager, East Africa at the Lufthansa Group. On 2nd May 2023, the group announced a capacity/ schedule increase for Lufthansa, Eurowings Discover, and Brussels airlines in the region. Together, we discuss what has driven this announcement and what this means for the region. You can connect with Kevin on Linkedin here and of course, meet the team at AviaDev Africa 2023 in Nairobi this June.

For this episode, we find ourselves in Nairobi Kenya, where the AviaDev Africa conference will take place in June. Our Host partners for the event are the Kenya Airports Authority, an autonomous body charged with the responsibility of managing all airports across Kenya. They are also the entity that is actively involved in route development, the main focus of AviaDev, namely engaging the airlines to start or expand their services to Kenya's airports. In this episode, I am joined by Jacob Bwana, Head of Marketing and Business Development at KAA and together we discuss: The post-covid recovery and resurgence. Where KAA sees gaps in the destinations served both within Africa and outside the continent How KAA works with other stakeholders to attract and retain airlines? The Cargo market opportunity. Is the market softening or continuing to grow and how is KAA supporting its development? An update on infrastructural development plans within the portfolio? What KAA hopes to achieve from hosting AviaDev Africa in Nairobi? Find out more about KAA here

In this episode, we take a glimpse into the future of how we may travel and how airports and airlines can incorporate innovation to build resilience into their businesses. I am joined by Javed Malik, Chair of the Advisory Board at Ink Innovation. Javed has been a leader in the aviation industry for over 27 years, having held various Group and C-level positions, including Group COO of AirAsia, COO of Bangalore Airport, along with senior roles at Qatar Airways, Worldwide Flight Services and British Airways. Javed leads the INK plus division and his advisory work focuses on ground handling, airline operations and airports worldwide. Together we discuss: What areas are the quick wins that require a limited investment for African airports to focus on? How can airports position themselves to be more attractive to investors? Examples of real world hardware and software solutions that can quickly and affordably be implemented in Africa What this means for customer behaviour and the adoption of these new technologies. How do we cater for all different traveller profiles? Follow or connect with Javed on LinkedIn Find out more about INK via their website

In this episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the current priorities of Ethiopian Airlines, the hosts of the upcoming 11th AFRAA Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place 7-9th May in Addis Ababa. Together we discuss: How important the African has market been in making ET what it is today and what it will be tomorrow in the face of continued competition The latest news on Ethiopian's partnerships across Africa, especially Nigeria and the DRC. What informed the new development that Ethiopian Aviation Academy will now offer degree courses The overall African aviation industry performance so far in 2023 The key topics and speakers that will join the Stakeholders Convention in May To find out more about the convention, click here

In this episode, we head to Dakar, Senegal to pay a visit to the Headquarters of The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), a specialist agency of the African Union. AFCAC is the executing agency of SAATM, the Single Africa Air Transport Market, which if successfully implemented could hold the key to a golden age of Aviation development on the continent. To discuss progress, challenges, and priorities, we are joined by the recipient of the 2021 AviaDev Ato Girma Wake lifetime award for an outstanding contribution to route development in Africa, Madame Adefunke Adeyemi, the Secretary General of AFCAC. Together, we discuss: The increased visibility and reach of AFCAC through a new communications strategy and appointment of SAATM Ambassadors across the continent 5 months on from the launch of the Pilot Implementation Plan, where do we stand with SAATM progress? What are the common objections to not joining the PIP and how is AFCAC ensuring these countries are not left behind? Is everything in place to deal with any disputes that may arise during implementation? Why the immediate focus is on growing the number of 5th freedom routes across the continent. You can visit AFCAC at www.afcac.org Follow AFCAC on twitter here Follow AFCAC on LinkedIn here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

In this episode, we explore a solution that is growing in importance in Africa, namely ACMI, an acronym meaning Aircraft Crew Maintenance and Insurance, a form of leasing. Our guest is Dainius Staniulis, the Vice President of Commercial and Business Development at Avion Express, a provider of short and long-term leasing and charter solutions. In the episode, we discuss: The definition of ACMI and how it differs from the traditional means of operating on the continent. How big the ACMI market is right now? The prevailing market conditions in Africa that make ACMI particularly appropriate. Examples where the solution has been deployed successfully on the continent. Can an airline still make money on this type of operation? If you are listening and want to know more, read the article accompanying the post here Connect with Dainius on LinkedIn If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, leave us a review so we can be found by more people and share the episode with someone you think will benefit from listening.

This episode is an exclusive interview with Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer of FlySafair, a low-cost airline based in South Africa. Bookings were opened for a new flight to Zanzibar in the week of 13th March 2023 and in this interview, we set out to understand why now is the right time to launch the route, the traffic profile driving the route, an update on the fleet expansion and which other destinations are on the radar in the Southern African region. You can follow Kirby on LinkedIn here Find out more at https://www.flysafair.co.za/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

In this episode, we preview the upcoming inaugural AviaDev Real Estate event, taking place alongside AviaDev Africa in Nairobi on 14th June 2023. The podcast provides more background on how real estate development could act as a catalyst for the successful future of many African airports. Marcel has contributed an article in Airport World, expanding on many of these topics, which you can access here Download the white paper here In the episode, we ask: Just how resilient is real estate and what are the reasons behind this resilience? How do African airports fit with the airport city concept? Are they large enough? What specific developments can African airports look at as potential real estate development opportunities? What are the main ingredients to ensure success? What airports can expect from the AviaDev Real Estate event Let's discuss the format and what they can expect from the event? Connect with Marcel here Finally, If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

This episode was recorded on the sidelines of the ACI Africa event which took place in Kigali, Rwanda between 28th February and 2nd March 2023. I am joined by Adonis Succar is the Director of Business Development for MEA at SITA. SITA is the world's leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology and has many customers on the African continent. In the podcast, we discuss: Passenger preferences. Are we all looking for a more contactless, digitally enabled journey? How can an airport deliver innovation and contactless solutions without huge costs? What are the tangible benefits to digitizing? How do smaller airports future-proof themselves? How do we plan for and cater for the increased proportion of older travellers? What opportunities and challenges does this offer? Finally, what does the journey of the future look like? How far are we away from not needing our physical passports in order to travel? Download the IT insights report here Connect with Adonis here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

For this episode, you find me on location in the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda. AviaDev's relationship with Rwanda and RwandAir goes back to 2016 when AviaDev was born in Kigali. My guest today is the CEO of RwandAir, Yvonne Manzi Makolo who took the reins of the airline in 2018. Yvonne comes from a telecommunications background rather than aviation, although she's now firmly immersed in our community and the airline continues to develop with new routes, new aircraft, and a renewed focus on cargo operations. In this podcast we discuss: ✈️ would Yvonne consider herself an #avgeek ? ✈️ what's the current network strategy? ✈️ what's driving the new focus on cargo business with the arrival of a Boeing 737-800 freighter? ✈️ the latest on the partnership/ strategic investment from Qatar ✈️ Yvonne's priorities as she becomes the first African and first female to chair the board of governors ✈️ The impact of the Arsenal F.C sponsorship from Visit Rwanda on traffic and awareness ⚽️ Is Yvonne an Arsenal fan? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

In this episode, we speak to George Mothema, the CEO of the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa or BARSA, who are a valuable partner for AviaDev and represent the interests of domestic, regional and international airlines serving South Africa to government and other stakeholders in the airline industry. In podcast 229, we briefly discussed the idea of an upcoming BARSA event. This is now a reality and in this episode we preview the event, which will take place at the wonderful Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town on 10th March. You find out more here https://barsa.co.za/summit/ Follow BARSA on LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/company/board-of-airline-representatives-of-south-africa/ Don't forget, AviaDev takes place in Nairobi Kenya between 14th and 16th June 2023. To find out more, please visit www.aviationdevelop.com If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

In this episode, AviaDev Africa shares an exclusive interview that was hosted, produced and published by AeroTime. In the interview, AeroTime Journalist and Africa correspondent Michael Jonga sat down in the AeroTime Studio with the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Hadi Abubakar Sirika. key topics include: 🛫 The expected launch of Nigeria Air in the first quarter of 2023 and its ownership structure with Ethiopian Airlines. 🛫 The fallout from the legal action taken by some of Nigeria's domestic airlines as a result. 🛫 Developing connectivity to Nigeria and the Minister's forecast of Nigeria seeing 50 to 60 million passengers per annum within the next decade under the Single African Air Transport Market? 🛫 Measures being put in place by the Nigerian government to prevent the build-up of unrepatriated airline ticket revenues. 🛫 Investments being made into Nigeria's aviation infrastructure and personnel training. You can watch the full video interview on AeroTime, click here: https://youtu.be/XNqPyDYBLPo Read the full interview publication on AeroTime, click here: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/exclusive-nigeria-air-expected-to-receive-aoc-for-q1-launch-breakeven-by-2026 To connect with Michael Jonga, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jonga-719378183/ AeroTime is a global and digital multi-channel aviation hub that provides news, events, recruitment and advisory services to the aviation world. Find out more about AeroTime here: https://www.aerotime.aero/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.

In the first episode of 2023, I am joined by 2 guests from Embraer Commercial Aviation, namely Stephane Hannemann, the VP of sales and marketing for The Middle East and Africa, who started his Embraer in the African market and has come full circle, and Akie Chabra, sales director, who joined the team in 2022, is based in Johannesburg and has a background in aviation and finance. Embraer boasts many customers on the African continent and continues to add new operators. In this episode, we discuss the following: How did the region perform and how did Embraer perform in 2022? What are airline executives in Africa focused on in 2023 and is there a greater need for rightsizing than ever before? The dominant trends for 2023 New projects at Embraer Southern Africa focus. How will the market develop in 2023 and beyond To connect with Stephan Hannemann, click here To connect with Akie Chhabra, click here Find out more about AviaDev Africa here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

For today's episode, you find me on location in Istanbul. Back in 2019, we announced that AviaDev would be taking place on the treasure island of Madagascar in 2020 and we started working on the plans for the event. Little did we know that in March 2020, everyone's lives would be turned upside down. The Ravinala Airports team has just announced a really innovative and proactive route incentive program for new routes to Antananarivo and Nosy Be airports. In the podcast, we discuss: The role and remit of Ravinala Airports The objectives of the route incentive program Why now is the right time What routes qualify for support and what is the support on offer? How is the program being financed? The top routes that could and perhaps should be served as a result of this scheme? If you are an airline that is interested in finding out more, you can connect with Tatam and receive the full document here: https://ravinala-airports.aero/en/ravinala-airports/offre/ You can connect with Tatamo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatamo-rakotozafy-9a481940/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

For today's episode, we take a flight to the home of AviaDev Africa 2023, Nairobi, Kenya to meet Martin Gitonga, Head of Network Planning and Alliances at Kenya Airways, an airline that plays a vital role in keeping Africa connected to itself and the wider world. In the last month, there have been some exciting new route announcements from the airline. These include a four-weekly flight from Mombasa to Dubai and a twice-weekly Accra- Dakar flight. In this podcast, we discuss: How 2022 has performed from KQ's perspective Why now is the right time to launch Accra/ Dakar The type of traffic is driving the demand? How KQ see the recent progress with SAATM The reasons behind launching Mombasa to Dubai on 15th December. The other routes/ destinations KQ are considering increasing flights to and how interested partners can attract the attention of KQ? The impact AviaDev Africa being hosted in Kenya will deliver for KQ and Kenya generally? You can follow/connect with Martin on LinkedIn here

In this episode, we head back to Cape Town, the host city of AviaDev Africa 2022 to meet David King, Project Manager and Paul van den Brink, Aviation Liaison, from Cape Town Air Access team powered by WESGRO who have overseen a pretty incredible recovery of connectivity since the effects of the pandemic subsided earlier this year. In this episode, we take a look at the domestic, regional and international recovery and get a feel for what's missing from the network. We also discuss the importance of air cargo in route development and how the Air Access team is supporting other African destinations in their drive to improve their air connectivity. CONNECT WITH PAUL CONNECT WITH DAVID

In this episode, we are joined by the CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. TAAG is one of the most interesting airline stories out there currently as it is reinventing itself, expanding its fleet and network and restructuring itself ready for private investment. The man charged with leading this transformation is Eduardo Fairen Soria, an experienced pilot and airline executive who has been involved in numerous airline ventures around the globe. In this session, we meet the man himself, understand the vision and mission of the airline and focus on the new routes being launched which including 2 never served by TAAG before, namely Durban and Accra. We discuss: Eduardo's philosophy when it comes to airline management? Eduardo's mandate for the airline and what are the timelines? Why now is the right time to launch Durban and Accra? Where next within Africa? What do you look and need for in terms of approach from an airport/destination working to attract TAAG? The fleet plans. TAAG have ordered 6 A220s for the airline which should start arriving in January 2023. Will these replace the 737s, compliment them and what will you look to do with the 737s? And the 777s remain for long-haul markets? What about airline partnerships? Connect with Eduardo here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

Between 11th and 13th December, AFRAA (African Airlines Association) will host the 54th Annual General Assembly in Dakar, Senegal. In this podcast, Maureen joins me to preview the event and provide an outline of what AFRAA's current priorities are for its members. Together we discuss: 🌍 How AFRAA's member airlines are performing? 🛫 The top 3 pressing issues AFRAA are occupied with currently? 🤝 Why the theme of the AGA is "Acing the roadmap to sustainable African aviation"? 🗣️ Who are some of the industry speakers speaking at the AGA? Finally, we look into 2023 to discuss AFRAA's outlook for the industry's prospects. Will it be the year that we finally see liberalization coming to the continent? REGISTER FOR THE AGA HERE CONNECT WITH MAUREEN HERE FOLLOW AFRAA ON LINKEDIN HERE If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

This podcast was recorded on 7th November 2022 during World Travel Market in London. Joining Jon Howell was Bronwen Auret, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at South African Tourism. SAT has been a long-term partner of AviaDev Africa and is one of the tourism authorities in Africa that really understand the value and impact of airlift on their success. Together we discussed: 🛫 how SAT support airlines starting or expanding services to the country 🌍 the domestic market focus during covid. Is the market still performing well and how are capacity issues affecting demand ✈️ How SAT support the air access teams in each province If you enjoyed the podcast, hit the share button now and send it to someone you feel would benefit from listening. Subscribe to AviaDev Insight Africa for free and never miss another episode

This podcast was recorded on location during the 52nd AASA AGA in Hermanus, South Africa. We meet George Mothema, the CEO of BARSA to discuss: George's background and the progress made in his first 12 months at the helm How BARSA views the recovery so far? What else needs to be done to ensure a sustained recovery? What are the current objectives of BARSA? George's first live BARSA conference coming in 2023. What it aims to achieve and who will be in attendance You can follow BARSA on LinkedIn here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon

This episode is a special joint episode recorded on location at the stunning Kruger Shalati, train on the bridge. I was joined by Kojo Bentum Williams, CEO of VoyagesAfriq travel media and host of the VA Tourism Podcast, which you can find here Together we took the opportunity to discuss the symbiotic relationship between aviation and tourism and why there is still a disconnect. Together we discussed: 🏖️ the tourism and aviation relationship from the tourism standpoint? 🌍 Whether the focus on domestic and regional tourism markets will endure post-pandemic? 🛫 How we move forwards to get these industries talking more than they do now? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon