The announcement was made on the Second day of the New York Forum Africa, one of the largest gatherings of politicians, investors, entrepreneurs and NGOs in Africa, hosted under the patronage of President Bongo. Other heads of state and key political figures attending the Forum include the President Alassane Ouattara from Ivory Cost, former President of Colombia Andres Pastrana, former President of Poland, Lech Walesa and former President of the European Union, Jose Barosso.

The affordable low cost model which has worked successfully in Europe and Asia by contributing significantly to the economic growth of those regions, is expected to herald in a revolution in Africa’s airline industry, unlocking the continent’s potential by boosting the economic mobility of its citizens, and encouraging increased trade as a result of the airline’s unprecedented low fares for passengers and goods.

Announcing the launch of the new Pan-African airline, President Bongo says: “My vision for Africa has always been that of an integrated continent. An Africa where every citizen has the opportunity to afford air travel and take advantage of the benefits of being economically mobile. The launch of Gabon FlyAfrica.com, a Pan African airline, is an important step in implementing this vision.”

“One of the biggest obstacles to Africa’s growth and development is the cost of doing business in Africa. Moving goods and people between African states are still too complicated and expensive and remains a major obstacle to the prosperity of the continent. One of the biggest contributions that we as Africans can make to Africa’s development is to open the skies for direct affordable travel between African states.”

source: arambo.com