Table 1: Summary of Issues Discussed in the Panel Discussions and Presentations

Topic Of Discussion Or Presentation

Unlocking the Potential of Positioning Zambia as an Aviation Hub

ISSUES RAISED ACTION BEING TAKEN / PROPOSED RECOMMENDATIONS

Current state of the aviation sector as Zambia enters the AfCFTA:

• Economic transformation pillar of the 8NDP identifies tourism as a driver and transport and logistics as an enabler

• Though aviation sector looks bright in terms of development, growth and investment opportunities, safety and security issues remain challenging

• National Transport Master Plan (NTMP) and National Air Traffic Master Plan (NATMP) have been developed

• Zambia re-established its national airline (to harness the potential and take advantage of travel opportunities)

• ZCAA grants fifth (5th) freedom to air carriers, supports air partnerships and innovations and collaborations (tenets of the Yamoussoukro Decision)

• Value-chain actors such as tour operators, car hire firms etc should fully utilise infrastructure that has been created

• ZCAA supports implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision through the SAATM to realise the vision of the AfCFTA

Opportunities and how Zambia is prepared for increased traffic and growth in aviation services:

• Zambia has and operates four international airports as the main gateways into and out of the country

Opportunities and benefits of operating from 14 airports (four (4) international airports and 10 provincial airports) in Zambia:

• Growth in the number of airlines coming into the country

• So many challenges and constraints in the airline industry, but sector is appreciative of the 2023 LLZ Conference and Exhibition which showcases several experiences and allows for the exchange of best practice

• Transit time between international and domestic flights is a big constraint to the Zambian airline industry

• Recent infrastructure upgrade at all the four international airports has enabled more efficient and better passenger and cargo and freighthandling

• ZACL has taken over operations of 10 provincial aerodromes (out of which seven (7) are operational)

Challenges should be addressed if making Lusaka an aviation hub has to be realised:

• Address issues pertaining to congestion and capacity constraints

• Address exorbitant airport fees and steep airfares (review and revise the tax structure)