For many years Africa has been seen as a high-risk investment. Access to structured finance especially for the aviation industry, has been hard to break through, but is there hope for a change? With the growth of aviation on the continent and the attendant need for modernising fleets and introducing new business aircraft, we bring key players to chart how access to financing could be easier.

Aviation in Nigeria and the region face many challenges, such as high taxes and fees, inadequate infrastructure, regulatory barriers, amongst others. The AfCFTA could help address some of these challenges by harmonizing policies and standards, reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, improving air connectivity and mobility, and creating new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The AfCFTA could also stimulate demand for business aviation services by expanding trade and investment flows within Africa and with the rest of the world.

The aviation industry in Nigeria, while brimming with potential, faces unique challenges that require robust legal and insurance frameworks. The development of these frameworks is crucial to ensure the safety and sustainability of aviation operations. This involves the formulation of comprehensive laws, regulations, and policies that govern various aspects of aviation. Equally important is the development of specialized insurance products to manage the risks inherent in aviation. These efforts, in tandem with initiatives from organizations such as the International Air Transport Association will pave the way for a more prosperous and secure future for aviation in the region. This session will delve into the intricacies of these developments, shedding light on their implications for the growth of the aviation sector in the region.

Urban air mobility is the future of transportation; designed to be faster, more efficient and environmentally friendly over traditional air transport systems. The global UAM market is projected to be worth $15 billion by 2030 driven by the mounting need for operational efficiency, green solutions for intra and inter city transportation and reduced human intervention. Still in its nascent stage, the industry is expected to experience first rays of commercialisation and a powerful mode of transportation in the very near future. Our panelists and experts discuss how cities and the industry can prepare for a future of urban air mobility that’s accessible but socially and environmentally responsible.