Business
Africa’s Private Jet Industry on the Rise
Fragile Growth
The growth in private charter is however not limited to passengers, and extends to transporting aid, logistics and other precious cargo. “This year may present a unique opportunity for jet manufacturers like Cessna, Gulfstream, Dassault and Bombardier, which have spent the last decade trying to build their Africa aviation business, particularly in Nigeria, to expand in one of the world’s fastest growing aviation market,” Van Wyk added.
She also said, “In fact, now that the country is gearing from elections next year, more politicians could join the growing list of jet owners. In the same vein, some other rich celebrities and spiritual leads are also in the race to belong to the elite league of jet owner in order to effectively oversee their growing flock.”
Travelling to disaster areas however poses a challenge for private jet charter service providers, and each region’s flying requirements and allowances vary. Chapman Freeborn however coordinates ad hoc and large-scale humanitarian relief flight operations for the United Nations, governments, international NGOs and other aid providers.
Van Wyk then said, “I think when it comes to the more rural destinations, and then there are definite obstacles that we are faced with. Airports, handling, permits, and response times play a huge role in our day to day planning… Often the most lives are saved in the immediate hours and days following a disaster. Major operations have included supporting the response to the Asian Tsunami, earthquakes in Pakistan and Haiti, floods in Burma, and humanitarian crises in Darfur and East Africa.”
Africa’s Future Flight Plan
As more Africans are able to afford private jet charter services, as well as commercial flights, Africa’s airplane space is set to become more populous and more diverse on-board facilities for those who can afford it. Van Wyk went on to say, “The growing class of super-rich [African] business moguls, bankers, preachers, politicians and oil magnates, who cannot compromise their comfort and time, now rush to acquire their own aircrafts.”
She concluded, “In fact, now that[some African countries are gearing for elections next year, more politicians could join the growing list of jet owners. Choosing the most convenient airport [and] travelling at times that suits your schedule. It’s all about supply and demand.”
Source: CNBC Africa
