Company Exec Says Various Countries Should Look To Consolidation Of Regulatory Agencies

There is a shortage of aviation skills in Africa, and the regulatory agencies in several African countries should work together to improve the aviation climate on that continent.

That's the assessment of Boeing International Africa vice-president João Miguel Santos, who made the comments on the sidelines of an aviation conference in Johannesburg this week.

IOL Business reports that Santos pointed out that only six African countries can adequately staff their independant aviation regulatory authorities. He suggested regional aviation authorities for South Africa, Western African States, and East Africa Communities.

But Santos added that he does not think there is the political will for the individual countries to take such a "bold step."

Independent transportation economist Joachim Vermooten agreed. He said that it was a good idea, but would be difficult to implement. He said that a public-private model would be the best avenue for any consolidation so that individual countries did not feel like they were giving up their sovereignty.

FMI: www.boeing.com