Promoting African airlines: 10 years later

Ten years ago we embarked on a bold mission to promote the airline industry in Africa. This was predicated on our belief that aviation can be vital catalyst for Africa’s economic and social development.

According to the ‘Letter from the Publisher’ in the first issue of AFRICAN AVIATION, in 1990, we aimed to create an “authoritative and very high quality magazine that is totally committed to serving the burgeoning African airline industry.” We added: “This commitment is genuine and long-term.” Today, that commitment remains undiminished. 

In our maiden issue we said: “Under the aegis of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), the continent’s carriers are working hard to foster closer co-operation. Some progress has been made, but much remains to be done. Africa, today, has perhaps the lowest rate of economic growth and the least developed aviation market. 

“And yet, Africa’s huge population, vast physical size, inadequate surface transport and vital commercial links with the outside world are likely to ensure that civil air transport will play a crucial role in the continent’s economic growth and development. Because it is the least developed market it has the greatest potential for growth.” Ten years later, we still believe that aviation is a vital key to Africa’s growth.