Black-owned engineering consulting firm Gibb has intensified calls for the upgrade of Africa’s ageing airport infrastructure, arguing that aviation investment is becoming increasingly critical as the continent markets itself as an attractive and sustainable investment destination.

“Poor records of safety and security, distance and limited connectivity, investment in education and training, a lack of adequate resources and infrastructure and a lack of regulation are among the main challenges faced by the African aviation industry, which provides the economy with significant growth,” asserted Gibb technical executive Sumeshin Naidoo.

The reliability of airport infrastructure on the continent had received renewed attention following recent suggestions that Zimbabwe’s Harare International Airport faced possible closure owing to safety concerns.

“Even though measures by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe have been undertaken, if sufficient developments on the airport rehabilitation is not completed within three years, the transportation hub will face permanent closure,” said Naidoo.

He further cautioned that some South African airports also faced the threat of closure should their rehabilitation and upgrade not be prioritised.

According to Gibb, the South African government had, since 1994, been instrumental in upgrading airport infrastructure, with a reported R22-billion having been invested in South Africa for the upgrade of its national airports.

“The question is, what this investment means in terms of impact and timeframe?

“The solid infrastructure and regular maintenance of airport runways and airfield systems should be of the highest importance for all African countries as a preventive measure to avoid airport closures. With air travel and airlines increasing in nature and use, it is imperative that the trust and safety of citizens is priority,” he commented.

He further called on African aviation authorities to adopt proper maintenance protocols, with a full implementation roll-out.

“An investment in infrastructure development, safety, security and regulatory frameworks is of key importance if African airports and airlines are to become truly global competitors,” stated Naidoo.