IATA: huge benefits in government and aviation industry partnership

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) unveiled a new study highlighting the importance of the aviation industry to the economy of South Africa, urging a strong independent regulatory framework (which includes consultation with industry) for ATNS - South Africa's air navigation services provider.

IATA also called for a new partnership between government and the aviation industry, aimed to benefit from a safe, secure, efficient and environmentally responsible aviation industry. IATA said South Africa has world class infrastructure, in terms of airports as well as air traffic and navigation services.

"But the 161% increase in ACSA charges allowed over the next five years is a clear indication that there is much that must be reformed," said Tony Tyler, IATA's director general and CEO. "If charges are increased in line with this allowance, South Africa could have the most expensive airports in the world. That is not sustainable and I am eager to engage in a positive dialogue on how we can move forward to make the air transport infrastructure more competitive," he said.

"Last year 21 million people and 240,000 tonnes of freight travelled to, from and within South Africa. Aviation is a critical strategic component of the South African economy and indeed the economies of all states in Southern Africa," Tyler stressed, however, that this cannot be taken for granted. "Positive policies are needed to drive aviation's significant economic benefits," he said.

Read the full article on www.airtrafficmanagement.net.