Emirates looks at all of Africa for expansion

Emirates is considering all areas of Africa for future expansion, and not focussing on one particular region (21-Jul-2011). Speaking at the Aviation Outlook Australia Pacific conference, Emirates SVP Public, Industry, International and Environmental Affairs Andrew Parker stated the carrier is looking at "steady and progressive growth" in the region. "We will add additional capacity to South Africa," he stated. Mr Parker stated intra-Africa routes are not important for the carrier, and it will continue to focus on fundamental routes to the Middle East and Europe. Mr Parker further stated that the presence of Emirates in Africa is well received by many African countries. "Many governments say we are adding value to the African aviation market by allowing its people to travel," he stated. "We actually think its encouraging to see African airlines getting stronger, as seen in the likes of Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways."