NAIROBI, Kenya — High airfares within East Africa have reignited a long-simmering debate over the need for a unified regional airspace, with advocates arguing it is the key to boosting economic ties and lowering costs for travelers.
The renewed call began when Dr. Kisembo Ronex Tendo, a Ugandan politician and former East African Legislative Assembly candidate, criticized Uganda Airlines in an Aug. 22 post on X, formerly known as Twitter. Kisembo highlighted a pricing anomaly where a one-hour flight from Entebbe to Nairobi was priced at $700 for an economy seat — the same as a long-haul flight to London’s Gatwick Airport.
Kisembo tagged regional leaders, including the presidents of Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and Rwanda, urging them to agree on a unified airspace to “save the citizens.” The post quickly drew support from others who shared similar frustrations, arguing that the high cost of intra-regional travel undermines economic integration and connectivity.
Critics attribute the exorbitant costs to a fragmented airspace, elevated taxes and operational inefficiencies. A 2023 report by the African Airlines Association noted that taxes and fees on fuel and tickets are higher than global averages, making up a significant portion of operating expenses.
Proponents of a unified airspace say it could create a single upper flight information region, streamlining air traffic management and reducing airline costs. The East African Community has discussed the proposal since at least 2019, with some estimates projecting a 15% to 20% reduction in costs for airlines and, subsequently, travelers. However, implementation has lagged amid national interests and regulatory hurdles.
While the debate gains traction online, many hope the momentum will pressure leaders at upcoming summits to address the issue of the region’s divided skies. Neither Uganda Airlines nor the EAC secretariat responded to requests for comment.
