SAATM: A Key Driver for Africa's Aviation Growth and Economic Development
The adoption of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) by African governments and airlines is poised to act as a significant catalyst for the growth of the aviation industry across the continent, while also enhancing its contributions to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Capt. Edward Boyo, the African Union (AU) African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) Ambassador for West Africa, shared these insights during an event marking Overland Airways' inaugural flight to Freetown, Sierra Leone over the weekend.
Boyo, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Overland Airways, emphasized the importance of SAATM in fostering economic development and improving connectivity throughout Africa. He asserted that embracing this initiative would help reduce obstructions faced by airlines and enhance aircraft operations within the continent. For example, Boyo noted that the launch of the Lagos-Freetown route was made possible due to the Sierra Leonean government's acceptance of SAATM. Boyo stated, “SAATM is essential for Africa’s development. With a unified air transport market, we will see increased connectivity and competition, which ultimately leads to lower prices.
Additionally, there will be reduced taxes related to air transport.” He elaborated on the factors contributing to high air transport costs, pointing out that it is not solely due to fuel prices or aircraft wear and tear. Instead, he highlighted that excessive taxes also play a significant role, especially when travel volumes are low. “For instance, if only one person travels to Sierra Leone, they shoulder the entire cost of maintaining airport infrastructure by paying a hundred leones. However, with SAATM, if multiple travelers use the route, that cost can be distributed among them. This way, each traveler pays a fraction of the fee, making air travel more affordable.”
Boyo urged governments to collaborate and share the benefits of SAATM to ensure the program's success. He acknowledged that a lack of trust among African governments and airlines has contributed to a hesitance in fully embracing the AU initiative. “There is a fear of relinquishing control over airspace—an asset that was freely given to us by God. Therefore, we will continue to advocate for cooperation between governments and airlines,” he remarked. He called for courageous leaders, such as Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director-General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), to take the initiative in opening up airspace and facilitating greater connectivity within the country.
