DEVELOPMENTS IN INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION: WHAT ARE SOUTHERN AFRICA'S STRATEGIC OPTIONS ?

Abstract

This paper presents and analyses the major structural and operational changes in international civil aviation that are currently occurring. Out of the plethora of these changes are some that will have a greater impact than others on the operations, strategies and profitability of southern African airlines. These are mergers and "globalisation" of airlines in the developed world, liberalisation of aviation services in Europe (1993) and the attainment of democratic rule in South Africa. Some strategic options open to southern African carriers are presented. The strategies relate mostly to how the carriers should position themselves to compete on the intercontinental routes. A major conclusion reached is that it would be in the best interests of the carriers to work towards the formation of a single carrier that would operate from a chosen hub.