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Qatar Airways (QA) Group Chief Executive Akbar al Baker highlighted the need for a global repositioning of Africa’s aviation industry, as well as the changing political approach to aviation in the region, at the Aviation Africa Summit & Exhibition being held in Kigali, Rwanda on February 27-28.
Speaking to an audience that included President of Rwanda Paul Kagame, senior government ministers, aviation industry executives and guests of honour, Baker stressed the need for liberalisation of aviation regulations in Africa to bring improved connectivity for travellers, as well as significant benefits in trade, tourism and employment.
Baker noted that although Africa makes up 16 percent of the world’s population, it only captures approximately 3.1 percent of the world’s air travellers.
Baker said, “Now is the time to reconsider how Africa’s aviation market is positioned in order to maximise its full potential. Governments should leave behind protectionist approaches to regulating aviation and embrace liberalisation, because when such policies are adopted, countries benefit from improved connectivity and a positive impact on trade, tourism and employment.
“Qatar Airways’ vision is about freedom, collaboration and long-term sustainable investments in African infrastructure, human capital and capacity-building. We strongly believe in Africa’s aviation potential, and we are ready to offer a solid and long-term partnership.”
The two-day summit brings together senior airline executives, civil aviation authority members and key aviation leaders to discuss the challenges facing the aviation industry in Africa and the future development plans for the market.
QA operates a Boeing B787 Dreamliner to Kigali, which features 22 Business Class seats and 232 seats in Economy Class. The aircraft offers a smooth flying experience and a spacious cabin, enabling passengers to rest and arrive at their destination feeling refreshed. The airline operates a daily flight between Doha and Kigali via Entebbe, with the return flight from Kigali to Doha non-stop.
In December 2018, Qatar Airways became the only Gulf airline to provide direct flights to Mombasa, Kenya, the airline’s second gateway into the country. The launch of this new service is part of the airline’s continued expansion plans in Africa, and a demonstration of its ongoing commitment to the region. QA now serves 21 destinations in 15 African countries. In addition, Qatar Airways Cargo provides freighter services to seven countries.
Qatar Airways is one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines, with a modern fleet of more than 230 aircraft flying to business and leisure destinations across six continents. As part of its continued expansion plans, Qatar Airways plans a host of exciting new destinations throughout 2019, including Malta, as well as many more.
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28/02/2019
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