The International Air Transport Association’s (Iata) regional vice president for the Middle East and Africa, Muhammad Ali Albakri, has called for the South African government to re-double its efforts to promote the country as a destination for business, trade and tourism now that the country is in a recession.
This, he said, would strengthen the air transport industry within the country even further – a sector which he added was essential to SA’s people and economy.
New data released by Iata yesterday (Wednesday) showed that the air transport sector supported around 490 000 jobs and contributed US$12 billion to the country’s GDP (gross domestic product).
“The study confirms the vital role of air transport in facilitating over US$110 billion in exports, some US$140 billion in foreign direct investment, and around US$9.2 billion in inbound leisure and business tourism for South Africa,” noted Albakri.
He also urged government to remove unnecessary red tape and policies that would hinder air connectivity and the trade, investment, tourism and job opportunities that it facilitated.
“Affordable, safe and reliable air transport is crucial to economic growth,” he pointed out. “It promotes skills and development and is a catalyst for jobs.”
