Airport taxes and charges holding back African airline growth

African Airlines Association (AFRAA) secretary general Elijah Chingosho stated (19-Nov-2012) high taxes and charges on airlines and passengers were holding back airline industry growth and making it uncompetitive. Airport charges of between USD60 and USD80 in Africa were well above the world average, Dr Chingosho said at the 44th AFRAA AGA held in Johannesburg from 18-Nov-2012 to 20-Nov-2012. "The excessive airport taxes, charges and fees being levied on airlines and passengers, in addition to the generally high cost of operations, is making African airlines less competitive compared to their foreign counterparts," he said. Dr Chingosho called for airports to set charges in consultation with airlines.