Transforming Air Travel Accessibility In East Africa

Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Mombasa, Kenya, the 19th Meeting of the East African Community (EAC) Sectoral Council on Transport, Communications, and Meteorology is in full swing, with a pivotal focus on liberalizing the Upper Airspace and driving down airfares across the region.

The agenda spans discussions on the status of crucial regional initiatives encompassing railways, roads, maritime, communications, and meteorology sub-sectors.

In a momentous address during the inaugural session on Tuesday, Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, the EAC Deputy Secretary General overseeing Infrastructure, Productive, Social, and Political Sectors, underscored the Community’s strides towards a harmonized airspace.

The completion of Phase One marks a landmark achievement, paving the way for the interoperability of air navigation systems within the region.

Embracing the liberalization of air transport services within the EAC heralds a new era where national carriers can traverse the region with enhanced freedom.

However, despite the potential advantages of air travel in East Africa, exorbitant airfares pose a formidable barrier, with routes like Nairobi to Entebbe, Nairobi to Kigali, and Nairobi to Dar es Salaam ranking among the costliest globally per seat.

The financial turbulence of high airfares

A staggering 43% of air ticket prices in the EAC are attributed to regulatory charges, taxes, landing fees, and other levies, with regulatory fees alone accounting for up to 24% of the total cost.

The prohibitive pricing not only dissuades potential travelers but also hampers economic growth, contributing to the region’s high cost of conducting business.

Insights gleaned from a study by the African Development Bank underscore the deterrent effect of elevated ticket prices, dissuading nearly 30% of prospective air passengers in the region.

Experts advocate for the removal of tariffs to potentially reduce air transport costs to below $100 per route, fostering increased connectivity and economic vitality

Quantitative analyses reveal the transformative power of liberalization, with projections indicating a 9% reduction in average fares and a substantial 41% uptick in flight frequencies, stimulating heightened passenger demand.

The envisioned liberalization among EAC member states holds the promise of generating over 46,000 jobs and injecting a significant US$202.1 million annually into the GDP.

Hon. Ariik, standing in for EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva, emphasizes the urgency of advancing the remaining phases to fully liberalize the air transport sector.

Acknowledging ongoing infrastructure enhancements at various airports, including international hubs in Hoima, Dodoma, Bugesera, Melchior Ndadaye, Juba, and N’djili, he champions South Sudan’s strides in aviation legislation as a model for regional progress

While applauding the momentum towards reduced airfares, Hon. Ariik advocates for broader participation in the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to streamline intra-continental travel.

With only three regional countries currently part of SAATM, he calls upon all nations to expedite their inclusion in this pivotal initiative, poised to revolutionize air travel dynamics across the continent.

Source: Newslex Point

Sabre and TAP Air Portugal expand distribution agreement, enabling access to NDC content for travel agents and travel buyers

Sabre (NASDAQ: SABR) and TAP Air Portugal have expanded their distribution agreement to include NDC content access for travel agents. Sabre-connected agents can now request activation to book TAP Air Portugal’s NDC offers alongside traditional EDIFACT content through Sabre’s travel marketplace. The content will be accessible via Sabre’s Offer and Order APIs, Sabre Red 360, and GetThere. This expansion strengthens their existing partnership and aligns with the industry’s move towards modern airline retailing, enabling more personalized travel experiences. Thousands of Sabre-connected agencies across 150+ countries can now access NDC content through the Sabre GDS.

10/30/2024 – 08:30 AM

SOUTHLAKE, Texas and LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading software and technology provider in travel, and TAP Air Portugal, the main Portuguese airline, today announced an expanded distribution agreement. Sabre-connected travel agents can immediately start placing activation requests for NDC offers. Once activated, they can book TAP Air Portugal evolving NDC offers alongside the airline’s traditional EDIFACT content.

“We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Sabre to provide our customers with a seamless and modern booking experience,” said Justin Jovignot, Director Distribution and Commercial Strategy at TAP Air Portugal. “Sabre’s extensive network offers a valuable opportunity to make our NDC content available to travel agents and travelers across the globe. We recognize the vital role that travel agents play in our success, and we are dedicated to equipping them with the tools they need to deliver exceptional service.”

Sabre-connected travel agents can start placing activation requests to shop, book, and service TAP Air Portugal’s NDC offers. These offers will sit alongside traditional content in Sabre’s travel marketplace, providing travel agents with a comprehensive range of options to best serve their customers. Travel agents will be able to access this content through Sabre’s Offer and Order APIs, the agency point-of-sale solution, Sabre Red 360, and the corporate booking tool, GetThere.

“Sabre’s leading travel marketplace seamlessly integrates a wide range of offers from both traditional and new sources, including NDC,” said Alessandro Ciancimino, Vice President, Airline Distribution, EMEA at Sabre Travel Solutions. “This agreement with TAP Air Portugal demonstrates our commitment to equipping travel agents with the multi-source content they way through the Sabre’s GDS to deliver enhanced travel experiences for their clients and improve their operational efficiency.”

The agreement highlights the travel industry’s shift towards modern airline retailing and NDC, which allows airlines to better customize their offerings and provide travelers with more personalized experiences. The renewed agreement strengthens on a long-standing relationship between Sabre and TAP Air Portugal.

Thousands of Sabre-connected agencies in more than 150 countries around the world are already shopping, booking, and servicing NDC content through the Sabre GDS.

About Sabre

Sabre Corporation is a software and technology company that takes on the biggest opportunities and solves the most complex challenges in travel. The Company connects travel suppliers and buyers around the globe and across the ecosystem through innovative products and next-generation technology solutions. Sabre harnesses speed, scale and insights to build tomorrow’s technology today – empowering airlines, hoteliers, agencies and other partners to retail, distribute and fulfill travel worldwide. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world. For more information visit www.sabre.com.

About TAP Air Portugal

TAP is Portugal’s leading airline and is a member of Star Alliance since 2005. Flying since 1945, TAP Air Portugal has its hub in Lisbon, a privileged access platform in Europe, at the crossroads with Africa, North, Central, and South America.

TAP Air Portugal is the world’s leading airline between Europe and Brazil. TAP offers more than 1,250 weekly flights to 85 cities in 30 countries through its network of destinations, which includes 6 airports in Portugal, 9 in North America, 14 in Central and South America, 13 in Africa and 43 in Europe (in addition to Portugal).

TAP has made a clear commitment to modernizing its fleet and offering the best product in the sector to its customers. The Portuguese airline operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with all of Airbus’ next generation NEO aircraft: A320neo, A321neo, A321LR, and A330neo, with superior efficiency and reduced emission levels. TAP also operates 19 Embraer aircraft in its regional fleet (TAP Express).

TAP is ranked by Airline Ratings to be one of the 25 safest airlines in the world.

TAP Air Portugal has been recognized and awarded as Europe’s Leading Airline to Africa, as well as Europe’s Leading Airline to South America by the World Travel Awards in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Source: Sabre

Passenger survey highlights need for convenience and technology

nology

Wednesday 30th October 2024 — 4 min read

IATA released the results of its 2024 Global Passenger Survey, revealing that travelers continue to prioritize convenience and speed. For a smoother travel experience, they are eager to use biometric identification and complete some travel processes before reaching the airport.

web travelers-walking-with-luggage-at-airport - Credit: Credit izusek iStock - 1477131540

“Passengers want flexibility and transparency when planning and booking travel, plus speed and convenience at the airport. More are embracing biometrics, digital wallets, and off-airport processes to make it happen,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Safety, and Security.

Planning, Booking and Payment

68% said proximity to the airport was their top priority when selecting their departure airport, followed by minimizing total travel time ( 33% ) and getting the best ticket price ( 25% ).
71% said they book travel online or via a mobile app, with 53% preferring to use the airline’s website / app and only 16% preferring human interaction.
32% said they wanted to have all travel information consolidated in one place during the pre-travel process.
79% prefer to pay for travel with a credit or debit card, followed by digital wallets at 20%, and instant payment solutions, such as IATA Pay, at 7%.
Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method ( 70% ), followed by benefits ( 39% ) and security ( 33% ).

Passengers prioritize convenience in the planning, booking, and payment phase of travel. For this convenience, they may accept some higher costs, and they are increasingly willing to use technologies, such as digital wallets. IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative is helping airlines to deliver greater customer centricity based on the foundational work of New Distribution Capability and the conversion to Offers and Orders. The Airline Retailing Maturity Index supports airlines in their distribution and payment transformation.

“Technology continues to change the way people plan, book and pay for travel. Travelers expect the same conveniences when shopping for travel that they get in any other online shopping experience. That means simplicity, clarity, and with options to meet their preferences while keeping their data secure. The industry is stepping up to meet the demand for greater customer centricity through IATA’s Modern Airline Retailing initiative. Passengers will experience its positive impact progressively in the very near future,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.

Airport

70% said they want to reach their boarding gate in 30 minutes or less when traveling with just a carry-on; 74% expect it to take no longer than 45 minutes with a checked bag.
85% said they are willing to share immigration data i.e. passport, visa with authorities before departure to speed up airport process. And 89% are interested in a trusted traveler program to expedite security screening.
45% said immigration procedures should be completed before reaching the airport, and 36% feel the same about check-in. Additionally, 70% of passengers said they’d be more likely to check-in a bag if they could do so in advance.
46% of travelers experienced airport processes using biometric identification. The highest usage is seen at entry and exit immigration checkpoints ( 43% ). 84% of users were satisfied. And 75% prefer using biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes.
50% said they are concerned about data protection and 39% would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of their data’s security.

IATA’s One ID initiative is helping the industry to respond to traveler desires for faster processes and less hassle on the way to their aircraft, securely powered by biometrics and digital identity.

“The clear message from travelers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travelers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That’s great for passengers. Importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling,” said Careen.

Digital solutions are preferred by younger generations

Under-25s are considerably more proactive in using technology to improve their travel but want assurances on security.

51% would choose digital wallets for payment, far above the global average of 20%.
90% expressed interest in using a smartphone with a digital wallet, passport, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation, surpassing the global average of 77%.
48% prefer biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes, compared with 43% of those aged 56-75.
50% of under-25s would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of data security, versus the global average of 39%.

Draft continental strategy on free movement developed

Free Movement of Persons is an integral part of the African integration and along with the African Passport is one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063.

Pursuant to this goal of integration, in January 2018 the Protocol to the Treaty establishing the African Economic Community relating to free movement of persons, right of residence and right of establishment was adopted by the AU Assembly. This was followed in March 2018 with the Agreement Establishing the African Free Trade Area, the Protocol on Trade in Goods, the Protocol on Trade in Services and the Protocol on Rules and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes.

As a follow up to this, the African Union (AU) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have developed a draft joint continental strategy to accelerate the Right of Entry for the Protocol to the treaty establishing the African Economic Communities relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. The strategy aims to ensure that RECs and Member States popularise and promote the adopted African Passport as one of the key mechanisms through which free movement of persons will be realised.

The implementation of the Protocol will evolve through three phases namely, right of entry, right of residence and right of establishment and the introduction of the African passport adopted during the February 2019 AU Summit, will act as a major catalyst for the Protocol especially the right of entry, according to AU Commissioner for Political Affairs Ms. Minata Samate Cessouma.

33 Member States have so far signed the protocol, and 4 ratifications have been deposited by Rwanda, Niger, Mali and Sao Tome and Principe. Technical specifications of the African Passport were also developed in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), RECs and Member States.

Dubai and Hilton partner to elevate tourism

In a significant move to elevate Dubai’s global tourism appeal, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Hilton have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focusing on enhancing visibility and refining service excellence in the city’s hospitality sector. This partnership aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, aimed at positioning Dubai as a top destination for both leisure and business, and further exemplifies DET and Hilton’s commitment to creating premium experiences for international visitors.

The MoU establishes a foundation for joint marketing initiatives, emphasising Dubai’s unique offerings through global advertising campaigns and social media. By incorporating seasonal travel packages, the partnership will showcase Dubai’s signature attractions while offering Hilton Honors loyalty program members exclusive Dubai experiences. Hilton, with over 195 million Honors members worldwide, will leverage DET’s resources, particularly in team training offered through Dubai College of Tourism. This will ensure Hilton staff are skilled in cultural awareness and customer service, elevating the standard of guest experiences throughout Dubai.

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), highlighted the role of Hilton in Dubai’s tourism evolution, emphasising that this MoU will bolster Dubai’s presence on the world stage while enhancing service quality within the city. This collaboration exemplifies Dubai’s culture of public-private partnership and strengthens the city’s tourism ecosystem. Through this partnership, more global travellers are expected to discover Dubai’s offerings, fostering advocacy and encouraging repeat visits.

Hilton, a global hospitality leader with 24 properties across nine brands in Dubai, will bring its extensive industry expertise to this strategic partnership. Guy Hutchinson, Hilton’s President for the Middle East and Africa, commended Dubai’s leadership in tourism innovation and Hilton’s commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision for unmatched hospitality. Hilton looks forward to participating in DET’s training programs to cultivate the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Dubai’s tourism sector has shown impressive growth, with the city recording a 7.5% increase in international visitors from January to August 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, when a record 17.15 million overnight visitors were welcomed. The hotel industry has achieved an average occupancy rate of 76.2% this year, reflecting Dubai’s sustained popularity as a premier travel destination. The DET-Hilton partnership is poised to enhance Dubai’s hospitality standards, supporting Dubai’s position as a global tourism leader.

Why Travel Insurance is a lifesaver against unforeseen pitfalls

Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.

In Summary

Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.

In recent times, significant investments in road, railway, and air transport have revolutionised mobility across East Africa.

Kenyan companies have capitalised on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.

Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.

Families now routinely plan holidays well in advance, especially to popular coastal regions like Mombasa and Diani, thanks to the convenience provided by the Madaraka Express railway service and the modernization of the Nairobi-Mombasa road.

ADVERTISING

Additionally, annual religious events have also spurred inter-regional travel, with Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda benefiting greatly from this.

For instance, Uganda’s Martyr’s Day attracts pilgrims from across the region to Namugongo, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a popular visit destination for many Kenyans.

Furthermore, the visa-free agreement between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda has facilitated extended stays for Kenyans across the region, whether for business, tourism, or education.

The completion of the 500-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway has also opened up tourist resort cities such as Kilifi and Lamu, enhancing local tourism

Looking into the future, discussions to open up Africa’s 54-country borders courtesy of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area are expected to revolutionise travel at an unprecedented scale, expanding travel bucket lists and tourism numbers across different countries.

This surge in travel underscores the importance of travel insurance.

It’s often seen as an unnecessary expense, but it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances.

It provides a financial shield, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about the loss emanating from travel-related potential risks.

With coverage spanning from medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, you have the assurance of protection in the event of unforeseen occurrences.

One of the lesser-emphasised benefits of travel insurance is the 24/7 assistance service, which can help with lost passports, legal matters, or other emergencies, and even offer third-party aid to make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.

This service ensures that travellers have access to support at any time, no matter where they are in the world.

For instance, if you misplace your passport, the assistance service can guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement quickly.

In case of legal issues, they can provide advice or connect you with local legal experts.

Additionally, travel insurance can assist one in taking care of medical emergencies by coordinating with local healthcare providers and arranging for necessary treatments.

Travel activities like hiking, skiing, or scuba diving increase the risk of accidents.

Travel insurance also provides peace of mind by reducing anxiety and stress levels, allowing travellers to enjoy their journey knowing they are protected against anticipated risks.

It also ensures unexpected costs don’t derail your travel plans and budget.

Remember the specific coverage offered by travel insurance policies can vary greatly.

It’s essential to read the policy carefully and choose one that aligns with your travel plans and needs.

Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.

Stanbic Bank And Mastercard Introduce Elite Cards With Premium Travel, Lifestyle And Insurance Benefits

Two new cards: The Stanbic World Elite Card and Stanbic World Card
Cards to give clients access to 1200 global airport lounges in over 135 countries
World Elite cardholders to enjoy up to 30% discount in over 800 participating golf clubs worldwide including Kenya.
This is the first World Elite Mastercard in East Africa

Stanbic Bank Kenya and Mastercard have partnered to introduce two new world class credit cards to the Bank’s affluent clients across the region.

Categorized into the Stanbic World card and Stanbic World Elite card, the cards are designed to offer an elevated experience for affluent clients, with special benefits such as airport lounge access, global customer assistance services, concierge services, premium memberships and wide range discounts.

The cards tie into the Bank’s affluent banking proposition which aims to deliver innovative, exclusive and customer-centred banking solutions and services. Positioned under Stanbic’s Personal and Private Banking division, the affluent proposition exposes clients to exclusive and personalized solutions that will unlock a new realm of luxurious experiences for Stanbic’s esteemed clientele.

Speaking at the media engagement event, Abraham Ongenge, Head of Personal & Private Banking at Stanbic Bank Kenya said,“We pride ourselves in being a Bank that connects clients with a suite of premium benefits, rewards and exclusive solutions. We believe that our clients deserve access to premium, secure and seamless services, which is why we continue to design and introduce solutions that make it easier for them to transact, live and work. In a fast-moving world, access to the right platforms, solutions and services can be a gamechanger. These cards will not only give our clients access to premium benefits but will also position them to gain from exclusive experiences and solutions. Further, with time and cost savings inbuilt into the card experience, clients can focus on their work, travel or leisure experiences fully and without disruptions.’’

Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President & Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard added, “At Mastercard, we are committed to developing cutting-edge financial solutions that align with our clients’ aspirations and suit their lifestyles. Our collaboration with Stanbic Bank aims to deliver exceptional banking experiences to the cardholders blending comfort and luxury seamlessly. The Mastercard World Elite Metal credit card will provide access to premier services and exclusive benefits, immersing clients in unparalleled luxury and elegance.”

The launch of these cards represents a strategic collaboration between Stanbic Bank and Mastercard to deliver premium services and value to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Designed with security and convenience in mind, this card includes the latest contactless payment technology and fraud protection services.

Cardholders will enjoy access to a suite of exclusive benefits, tailored privileges, and unique experiences:

Stanbic World Card
This premium card offers access to global experiences, including VIP airport lounges, luxury car rental services and exclusive rewards programs. Other benefits also include complimentary travel insurance, priority hotel bookings, and discounts at retail outlets from Carrefour, Glovo and Jumia.
Stanbic World Elite Card
This is the first metallic credit card in East Africa launched in collaboration with Mastercard. With this prestigious card, affluent clients will enjoy enhanced spending limits and a host of lifestyle privileges. From access to premium events and experiences to exclusive dining offers and curated travel itineraries, visa assistance services, shipping discounts and offers, this card provides rewards for the discerning customer. Cardholders will also benefit from 24/7 dedicated support and the highest level of financial flexibility.

 Exclusive benefits cardholders get to enjoy:

Under the Mastercard Golf Program, World Elite cardholders enjoy an end-to-end online golf booking solution and up to 30% discount in over 800 participating golf clubs worldwide including Kenya 
Cardholders will enjoy access to Unicaf scholarships for eligible candidates to pursue academic studies with its associate universities. The cardholders can access up to 75% scholarship off program’s tuition fees.

Other benefits Include:

Access to airport lounges globally via Mastercard Travel Pass
Exclusive dining and travel privileges and offers
Car Rental and Chauffeur Services/ discounts
Enhanced rewards and loyalty programs
24/7 dedicated concierge services
Comprehensive travel insurance
Mastercard Global Emergency Services
Fraud protection with the latest digital payment technology

At the core of Stanbic Bank’s affluent banking proposition are four key pillars that define its commitment to helping clients achieve both financial and personal fulfilment:

Bank Easily: Stanbic Bank is committed to providing its affluent clients with seamless, accessible banking services. Through a combination of cutting-edge digital platforms and dedicated relationship managers, clients can manage their finances with ease and convenience, no matter where they are.
Invest Skilfully: Helping clients secure and grow their wealth is a priority for Stanbic. With expert investment advice tailored to individual financial objectives, the bank ensures that clients can make informed decisions that maximize returns while managing risk effectively.
Plan Wisely: Stanbic Bank’s comprehensive financial planning services empower clients to build a secure future. From estate planning to retirement preparation, Stanbic helps clients create strategies that safeguard their wealth for generations to come.
Live Joyfully: Banking with Stanbic goes beyond finances—it is about enhancing clients’ quality of life. From exclusive lifestyle privileges to premium travel experiences and curated events, Stanbic Bank aims to provide a richer, more rewarding experience for its clients.

Similarly,Stanbic Bank, has also been awarded the prestigious title of No. 1 Private Bank in Kenya by Global Finance, a recognition that reflects the bank’s unwavering commitment to delivering superior banking experiences for its affluent clients. This award further cements Stanbic Bank’s position as the market leader in providing personalized financial solutions that cater to the diverse needs of high-net-worth individuals across the region.