Enhancing Regional Connectivity Through Aviation:
Zambia’s Role in Developing as an African Aviation Hub
At the recent Land-Linked Zambia Summit, aviation industry stakeholders, which included representatives from the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA), the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, and Proflight Zambia, engaged in a panel discussion on the nation’s ambitious plan to transform its aviation sector into a competitive hub within Africa.
The concept of aviation hubs has gained prominence as African airlines expand their networks to foster connectivity and stimulate economic growth across the continent. Advocates argue that establishing a robust hub can attract increased passenger flows, facilitate trade, and boost tourism.
“Proflight Zambia keenly promotes Zambia as a hub within the network we currently have and are still developing,” said Vincent Banda, Proflight Zambia’s Director of Ground Operations, Cargo, and Catering, during the summit.
While more established hubs, such as OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa, Bole International Airport in Ethiopia, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Kenya, and Kigali International Airport in Rwanda, dominate Africa’s aviation landscape, Zambia is strategically leveraging its geographical location and implementing reforms and investments across its transport sector.
The nation is focused on reducing operating costs and easing the regulatory challenges that have historically hindered local airlines, such as excessive airport taxes. Handling fees are a critical issue, Mr Banda highlighted. “The ticket taxes and handling costs are very high in our region. We need a review to make our local airlines competitive”.
Several industry players also noted inflexible regulatory frameworks as significant barriers. For instance, discussions at the summit revealed that Zambia’s aeronautical services account for 87% of airport revenue. In contrast, the global best practice suggests non-aeronautical revenue should form at least 40% of income. This imbalance compels airlines to pass on costs to consumers.
Safety and security remain paramount in fostering confidence among both investors and consumers. Following the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Safety Audit, ZCAA achieved a 72.94% effective implementation rating, surpassing the regional average. With more preparations for an upcoming security audit underway, industry experts affirm that Zambia’s improved safety record will significantly enhance its appeal to international passengers and investors.
Government policies play a pivotal role in realising the aviation hub vision. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics, in collaboration with industry leaders and the ZCAA, are examining tax reviews, regulatory reforms, and initiatives to lower aviation fuel prices. Efforts include discussions with bodies like the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to mitigate high fuel costs. Furthermore, the summit underscored the importance of aligning national policies with African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) initiatives to support the liberalisation of air transport across the continent.
The Land-Linked Zambia Summit serves as a vital platform for discourse, uniting stakeholders to confront both challenges and opportunities within the aviation sector. By fostering dialogue among key participants—from the private sector to governing bodies—the summit emphasised a shared commitment to overcoming regulatory and operational obstacles and capitalising on the potential of the expanding African aviation market.
Whilst challenges persist, Zambia’s proactive approach to tackling high operating costs, regulatory hurdles, and safety standards points to a promising trajectory towards establishing a dynamic aviation hub. Stakeholders are calling for prompt and comprehensive policy reforms to empower local carriers, invigorate the sector, and pave the way for sustainable growth and enhanced regional connectivity.
