African aviation experts from 19 countries have endorsed a model bilateral air services agreement aimed at accelerating the liberalization of African skies and integrating markets under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). This move seeks to harmonize fragmented air service rules and simplify bilateral deals across five regional blocs.

• An International Air Transport Association (IATA) study estimates that liberalizing just 12 key African markets could unlock US$ 1.3 billion in annual GDP and generate 155,000 jobs.
• Daoud Ali Abdou, chief of the Djibouti Civil Aviation Authority, stated the template fosters a "more integrated, prosperous and connected Africa."
• 34 nations, including Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, and Morocco, have signed onto SAATM, representing over 80% of the continent’s aviation market.