AVIATION LEADERS CALL FOR HARMONISED REGULATION IN SADC
The time-consuming aviation regulations, stifling visa requirements, and a lack of cross-industry collaboration are hampering the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) economic potential, aviation experts have warned
Speaking at the recently held Southern African Industrialisation Forum (SAIF), SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance Lead, Natalia Rosa said the current state of aviation in SADC is a massive own goal for economies on the bloc.
“We can talk about a free trade area and regional integration, but if people and goods can’t move efficiently, it’s all just empty promises,” Rosa said.
SAIF indicated that the fragmented regulations, inconsistent bilateral agreements, and disharmonised licensing requirements create unnecessary complexity and operational costs for airlines.
Achieving greater connectivity within the SADC aviation industry requires harmonising regulations across countries, explained Airlink Executive Manager Corporate Services, Dr. Namhla Tshetu.
She pointed out that while protecting a country’s sovereignty is important, when regulations are misaligned, it hinders collaboration on regional routes. Overcoming this requires finding common ground, using global standards and most importantly, considering airline perspectives when formulating bilateral agreements or policies that impact operations.
“Without substantial involvement of airlines in drafting aviation rules, suboptimal regulations often emerge that inhibit cross-border operations – whether due to protectionist agendas or simply lack of practical industry input. Rectifying this limited participation will be integral to unlocking connectivity and forging viable, integrated air networks across the SADC region,” said Tshetu.
SAIF is a flagship event of the SADC Business Council, bringing together key stakeholders – government leaders, policymakers, industry executives, investors, and development partners – to shape regional investment priorities and industrialisation strategies.