African Airlines Urge Governments to Adopt Global Passenger Data Standards | By Joojo Maapa
African aviation industry bodies have called on governments across the continent to adopt globally harmonised standards for passenger data collection, warning that fragmented implementation of border security systems could increase costs for airlines while undermining the efficiency of air transport.
In a joint statement, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) urged African governments to align their Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) programmes with internationally recognised standards rather than introducing country-specific requirements.
The three organisations argued that passenger data systems have become increasingly important in strengthening border security, combating transnational crime and facilitating legitimate travel. However, they cautioned that inconsistent implementation across Africa risks creating unnecessary operational complexity for airlines already grappling with high operating costs.
The industry bodies stressed that API and PNR programmes should be built on globally accepted frameworks developed by international organisations, enabling seamless exchange of passenger information while safeguarding personal data and reducing compliance burdens on carriers. They also called for governments to ensure that such systems are adequately funded rather than transferring implementation costs to airlines.
The appeal comes at a time when many African countries are modernising border management systems as part of broader efforts to strengthen aviation security, facilitate travel under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and support growing passenger volumes across the continent.
For African governments, the organisations said, harmonised passenger data programmes offer an opportunity to improve national security while making travel more efficient and attractive for business and tourism. Conversely, differing technical requirements and overlapping regulations could discourage airline network expansion and complicate cross-border operations.
In a joint statement, AFRAA Secretary General Abdérahmane Berthé, AASA Chief Executive Officer Aaron Munetsi, and IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East Kamil Alawadhi said they fully support the implementation of API and PNR systems because of their critical role in securing borders.
However, they emphasised that the programmes “must be aligned around internationally recognized standards and funded correctly,” adding that governments and industry working together would improve security outcomes, make travel more seamless, safeguard passenger data and avoid unnecessary costs and complexity. They reaffirmed the commitment of IATA, AFRAA and AASA to work with governments, regional institutions and international partners to ensure passenger data programmes enhance security while supporting safe, efficient and affordable air transport across Africa.
African Airlines Urge Governments to Adopt Global Passenger Data Standards | AviationGhana| Send all inquiries and press releases to AviationGhana.info@gmail.com
