Creecy credits African Civil Aviation Commission after SA gets re-elected to ICAO

Africa's voice in global aviation policy has received a major boost after South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt were re-elected to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) governing council at the ongoing 42nd General Assembly in Montréal, in Canada.

South Africa has held a council seat since 2003.

The outcome consolidates Africa's influence at the UN aviation body at a time when the continent is pushing for greater connectivity and affordability in air travel.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, who is leading South Africa's delegation, says the vote reaffirmed confidence in the country and the continent's role in shaping the aviation industry’s future.

"In her reaction, Transport Minister Creecy said that the re-election also reaffirms South Africa's instrumental role in advancing ICAO's agenda on safety, security, sustainability and environmental matters."

READ: SA re-elected to governing council of International Civil Aviation Organisation

She credited the African Civil Aviation Commission for ensuring Africa's priorities remain central to the governing council's agenda.

The UN agency has already tabled proposals to advance the single African air transport market, a flagship initiative of the African Union that seeks to open up the skies, reduce costs, and expand trade and tourism opportunities.