When the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) called a virtual AGM assembly in November, the theme dominating the agenda was the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the industry. The turbulence created by the disease has dealt a severe blow to Africa’s aviation sector. During the assembly, key stakeholders emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts as a way to secure business continuity. An appeal was made to governments and development finance institutions to continue supporting the industry as a means to secure the continent’s social and economic recovery, given the sector’s strategic contribution to national GDP. As AFRAA was holding its annual assembly, it was announced that SAA and Ethiopian Airlines (Africa’s biggest airline) were in discussions about Ethiopian Airlines providing planes, pilots and management to SAA. The effort – which could lead to wider consolidation – could offer an example of how African airlines can work together during the pandemic.

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