Angola’s Miguel Caneiro has been elected chairperson of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) for the next 12 months, taking the helm of the regional aviation industry body at a time when airlines are pushing for improved connectivity and a more enabling operating environment across the region.
The chief executive of TAAG Angolan Airlines was elected at AASA’s 56th Annual General Meeting held in Mauritius, while Air Botswana General Manager Bao Mosinyi was elected deputy chairperson.
Announcing the new leadership, AASA chief executive Aaron Munetsi said the pair would steer the association’s engagement with governments, regulators and industry stakeholders on issues affecting air transport across the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“Miguel and Bao will provide guidance and support to AASA in our ongoing engagements with governments, aviation regulators, airport operators, air navigation service providers and other relevant role players in our advocacy work,” Munetsi said.
He said the association aims to promote policies, regulations and aviation infrastructure that support competitive, financially viable, secure and environmentally sustainable air transport, while improving intra-African connectivity.
More than 200 delegates attended the annual gathering, including representatives of airlines, airports, air navigation service providers, civil aviation authorities, aircraft manufacturers and industry suppliers.
AASA serves as the collective voice of airlines operating in the SADC region and advocates on issues ranging from regulation and taxation to operational efficiency, safety, security and infrastructure development.
The association has increasingly focused on removing barriers to regional air travel and supporting the broader African aviation agenda, which seeks to improve connectivity between African countries and reduce the cost of air transport.
Established in 1970, AASA currently comprises 15 airline members and 42 associate members drawn from across the aviation value chain, including aircraft and engine manufacturers, fuel suppliers, ground handling companies and other industry bodies.
The organisation also works closely with the International Air Transport Association and the African Airlines Association and represents Southern African airline interests at relevant International Civil Aviation Organisation forums.
JN/APA