In a conversation with aviation journalists, Lemma Gudeta, the Group Chief Commercial Officer (GCCO) of Ethiopian Airlines, offered insightful reflections on the state of air transport within Africa, the airline’s expansion strategies, and its involvement in the Nigerian aviation sector. The discourse underscored the critical importance of enhancing air connectivity across the continent to spur economic growth, facilitate lower airfares, boost tourism, and improve air connectivity, all of which are envisioned benefits of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Despite the ambitious objectives of SAATM, a program initiated by the African Union (AU) to liberalize airspace across the continent, only 34 African countries have committed to the initiative. Gudeta expressed disappointment over the program’s slow progress, noting that African airlines currently account for less than 20% of air traffic departing from the continent. The SAATM initiative is seen as a cornerstone for realizing a more integrated and accessible African air transport market, which Ethiopian Airlines has championed since its inception.
Gudeta highlighted the underdevelopment of air connectivity in Africa, pointing out that the continent’s vast population and economic potentials necessitate robust air transport infrastructure. Ethiopia, as Africa’s second-most populous nation, serves as a testament to what can be achieved through committed aviation development, having grown its fleet from 25 to 146 airplanes. This expansion reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to connecting Africa both internally and with the world.
The SAATM initiative aims to create a unified airspace, allowing for more efficient and competitive operations among African carriers. Gudeta believes that while progress has been made, the journey towards a fully liberalized air market in Africa is ongoing, with expectations of reaching its zenith in the next 10 to 15 years.
Ethiopian Airlines’ growth is also marked by its proactive fleet expansion, planning to incorporate an additional 120 aircraft to cater to its ambitious goal of operating 209 international destinations by 2025. This strategic move is aligned with the airline’s Vision 2035, aiming for a fleet of 217 airplanes to meet the increasing demand for air travel and replace older aircraft.
In the context of Nigeria, Ethiopian Airlines played a pivotal role in the attempt to establish a national carrier, Nigeria Air. Despite the complexities and challenges faced, including the significant financial investment and acquisition of three Boeing 737 Max aircraft, the project encountered obstacles. Gudeta expressed confidence in the airline’s capacity to navigate these challenges, citing Ethiopian Airlines’ reputation and experience in establishing successful carriers in other African nations.
Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to the Nigerian Air project underscores its dedication to fostering a strong and reliable aviation sector in Nigeria. Gudeta respected the Nigerian government’s decisions and expressed optimism about the future, awaiting further communication and hoping for an opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
This discourse sheds light on the intricacies of African aviation, the pivotal role of initiatives like SAATM, and Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic efforts to navigate and contribute to the sector’s development. The conversation with Lemma Gudeta not only highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ aspirations and challenges but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance air transport infrastructure across Africa for economic development and connectivity.
Source: The Sun Nigeria
