Swissport International has announced its participation in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) "Focus Africa" initiative — a major commitment to support the transformation and growth of aviation in Africa.

The airport ground handler said as a partner of the initiative, it will play its part in improving connectivity, safety, and sustainability in African aviation.

"Swissport recognizes the immense potential of the aviation industry in Africa and is committed to creating a positive impact", said Dirk Goovaerts, CEO of Continental Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Global Cargo Chair of Swissport International.

"Together with IATA, we aim to support passengers and cargo customers and ultimately promote the continent's economic development," he added.

The Swissport executive noted that Africa's aviation sector "holds vast opportunities," with its young demographic and potential to triple its economic footprint over the next two decades.

However, it noted that the region also faces significant challenges, such as limited infrastructure, high operational costs, regulatory issues, and the urgent need for sustainable practices.

"Africa's aviation industry has the potential to transform lives and economies. Through collaboration with partners like Swissport, across the aviation industry, we aim to confront these challenges head-on, building a more sustainable and prosperous aviation ecosystem together", said Kamil Al-Awadi, Regional Vice President of Africa, and Middle East of IATA.

Swissport has been actively expanding its presence and services across the African continent to 31 airports in six countries.

Swissport is already one of the key contributors to the operational stability and the growth of the aviation sector in Africa, with a strong focus on providing ramp handling, air cargo handling and passenger services.

IATA's Focus Africa initiative has outlined six key focus areas: safety, infrastructure; connectivity; finance and distribution, as well as sustainability to support the African aviation industry in achieving net zero by 2050.