IATA Highlights Aviation’s Strategic Role in Rwanda’s Economic Growth

Translations: L’IATA souligne le rôle stratégique de l’aviation dans la croissance économique du Rwanda (pdf)

Kigali – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released the Value of Air Transport study for Rwanda, quantifying the substantial benefits that aviation (including aviation-related tourism) generates in terms of jobs and economic activity.   

Highlights from 2023 data show that aviation supports and facilitates:

• USD 160 million of economic activity (total impact including wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism activities), equal to 1.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
• 42,000 jobs (total impact including wider supply chain, employee spending, and tourism activities)
• 16,500 tonnes of air cargo

> Access the full study (pdf)

“Rwanda has made aviation central to economic and social development, with the sector contributing USD 160 million to GDP and supporting 42,000 jobs.  By integrating aviation into its tourism strategy, investing in modern infrastructure, and meeting global standards for safety, Rwanda has built a competitive and resilient industry that is driving growth and connectivity. The country’s early adoption and investment in modern interactive passenger data systems (API-PNR) sets a best-practice example for others to follow. With continued focus on cost-efficient infrastructure, training and capacity building, and championing regional connectivity and sustainability, aviation is well-supported to contribute even more to Rwanda’s growth,” said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and Middle East.

Key priorities for Rwanda

IATA outlined three key priorities for Rwanda:

• Cost-Efficient Infrastructure: As Rwanda expands its aviation infrastructure, including the development of Bugesera International Airport through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), IATA urges the government to prioritize cost-efficiency and maintain close collaboration with airlines and users. Equally important is ensuring that the PPP project focuses on long-term socio-economic benefits rather than short-term financial returns.
• Training and Capacity-Building: A skilled and qualified workforce is critical to sustaining aviation growth in Rwanda. The establishment of the Rwanda Civil Aviation Training and Innovation Center is a positive step towards ensuring the skills needed to support aviation’s potential. Continuous investment in training, skills development, and innovation will build a sustainable talent pipeline and support job creation.
• Continue Championing Regional Connectivity and Sustainability: Rwanda’s visa-on-arrival and e-visa systems have made it one of Africa’s most accessible destinations, directly supporting aviation by stimulating travel and connectivity. Its early commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), participation in ICAO’s ACT-SAF program to explore sustainable aviation fuels, and voluntary participation in ICAO’s CORSIA scheme demonstrate strong alignment with global standards through leadership on connectivity and sustainability.

“Rwanda’s visa-on-arrival and e-visa policies have made it exceptionally accessible. Its early moves on SAATM, sustainable aviation fuels, and CORSIA highlight alignment with global standards and a real commitment to sustainability and connectivity. By maintaining this momentum, Rwanda is building a bright future for itself and taking on a leadership role for the African continent,” said Alawadhi. 

About the Value of Air Transport Studies

IATA has published more than 80 national Value of Air Transport studies. Developed in partnership with independent economists at Oxford Economics, each report contains a comprehensive analysis of the contributions of aviation to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), employment, tourism, cargo and connectivity. Given how the demand for air transport has continued to grow, it is reasonable to assume the economic contribution and employment supported by aviation has increased since the data were compiled in 2023. 

For more information, please contact:
Corporate Communications
Tel: +41 22 770 2967
Email: corpcomms@iata.org