One of the most outspoken and positive discussions in Aviadev Africa 2025 took place during the growth of high-level panel flight paths addressing the continent's most pressing aviation issues, including ownership models and capital mobilization from access to markets, Visa policies and the future of regional connectivity.
The session, hosted by respected aviation journalist Hillka Burns, summarised the industry's key voices: Helen Bloom (Afflexibank), Munauer Dilani (Flightlink), Julian Edmunds (Fastjet), Mesphine Teiswa (Ethiopian Airlines), and Peter Uranga (Air Tanzania).
At the heart of the discussion was a critical message. Ownership is not equivalent to success. “It's not whether the airline is personal or state-run,” Helen Bloom said. “What's important is governance, autonomy, and commercial discipline.” That sentiment echoes throughout the session, with panelists emphasizing that airline performance depends not only on structure, but on professional management.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, provided a strong case study. Despite being nationally run, the airline achieved sustainable profitability and global recognition. “We don't chase short-term profits,” he pointed out. “We are investing in building a pan-African network that connects continents to terms,” a recent joint venture with Ethiopia's Malawi was cited as a model of a clearly structured public partnership (PPP) that provides results when guided by a proper vision.
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Source: Voyagesafriq
