The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called for governments, safety regulators and industries to take action to drive aviation connectivity within Africa.

It is set to be one of the fastest-growing aviation regions over the next 20 years, with annual expansion averaging close to 5 percent, though correct policies need to be developed for the potential to be realised, according to Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

“Smarter regulation, and a focus on delivering the safety and connectivity commitments of the African Union, will be crucial to establishing Africa as a global aviation powerhouse,” he said.

Among a number of factors, safety and regulation must be addressed first, according to Tyler. Africa experienced no jet hull losses in 2014; however the all-aircraft accident rate remained considerably higher than the global average.

“The Abuja Declaration commitments by African governments must be followed up with action to increase compliance with ICAO standards,” Mr Tyler added. IATA is moving forward with assistance for airlines that are eligible for the IATA Operational Safety Audit, for which a new safety assessment has been developed.

Implementation of the Yamoussoukro Decision – open skies for Africa will open up air routes within the continents and provide opportunities for more than 5 million additional passengers a year. IATA is calling for the African governments yet to agree to the treaties promising global airline liability to do so without delay, in order to move forward.

Infrastructure is an issue which needs addressing, according to Tyler: “The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has very clear guidelines on infrastructure funding—and Africa has an opportunity to be a leader in this field by developing its infrastructure in close consultation with the industry.”

It is also vital that African governments support a workable solution towards meeting its carbon emissions target, in particular, the industry’s goal of carbon-neutral growth from 2020.

“The negotiations for a global market-based measure to tackle carbon emissions from aircraft are entering a crucial phase ahead of the 2016 ICAO Assembly. It is vital that African governments support a workable solution, in order for a measure to be in place in time for the industry’s 2020 goal of carbon-neutral growth,” Tyler added.