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South Africa’s Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy (3rd from left) emphasized at the Aviation Summit 2026 of the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA) in Zimbali, KwaZulu-Natal, that Africa is at a crucial point in shaping its aviation future. In her speech, she highlighted that aviation is not only a means of transport but also a strategic economic foundation that drives trade, tourism, investment, and job creation across the continent.
Independent Development of Aviation
Creecy called for Africa to shape its own aviation development rather than merely responding to global developments. She stressed the need for coordinated liberalization to promote the growth of aviation in Africa. Currently, limited intra-African connectivity is a hindrance to unlocking the continent’s potential in air transport.
Opportunities through the SAATM
A central element in this discussion is the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which has the potential to fundamentally change the sector. Creecy pointed out that strong institutional capacity and uniform regulation are crucial for the success of the SAATM. The minister emphasized that alignment with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization, as well as gradual liberalization and cost reforms, are necessary to strengthen Africa’s global competitiveness.
The Role of South Africa
South Africa plays an important role in this process. With solid infrastructure, harmonized regulation, and growing logistics capacity, the country is well positioned to support the growth of aviation on the continent, even in the face of geographical challenges. Creecy referred to measures already initiated, including the restoration of 250 of the 388 flight procedures and the elimination of licensing backlogs.
Infrastructure Projects and Future Perspectives
A significant infrastructure project is the construction of a new cargo terminal at O. R. Tambo International Airport, which, with an investment volume of nearly 300 million EUR, is expected to significantly expand capacity and support export-oriented growth. Creecy concluded with a call for Africa to rise from an underserved market to a globally competitive player in air transport through coordination, clarity, and strategic intent. South Africa is ready to contribute its part.
