Air Transport: A Monumental Undertaking

C ameroon, many experts within and beyond have agreed, is a land of attractiveness. As a strategic Central African country, endowed with considerable agricultural, mineral, industrial, and tourism potentials, one would have expected an efficient aviation sector as a major driver of development. This is not the case. Cameroon, despite its geographical advantages and ambitions to become a regional transport hub, continues to face significant challenges in transforming air transport into an affordable, reliable, competitive, and accessible service for its population. To put in place a veritable air transport network in Cameroon requires a strategic shift from isolated airport projects to an inte­ grated and business-driven aviation ecosystem. From the operational difficulties of the national carrier, Ca­ mair-Co, to the need for modern airport infrastructure, improved safety standards, competitive ticket prices, and stronger regional connectivity, the challenges are considerable. Although the government and the Came­ roon Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA) have introduced initiatives aimed at improving the sector, the fundamental question remains: what practical measures can be taken to make air transport more efficient and beneficial to Cameroonians? Ameliorating air transport in Cameroon requires more than constructing airport terminals or acquiring aircraft. It demands a comprehensive reform programme combining sound management, infrastructure investment, tech­ nological innovation, human-resource development, transparent governance, and effective public-private partnerships. One of the most urgent priorities in im­ proving air transport in Cameroon is the modernisation and rehabilitation of airport infrastructure by making sure international airports in Douala and Yaounde-Nsi­ malen which serve as important gateways for passengers, investors, tourists, and commercial goods, are well equipped with modern runways, reliable lighting systems, efficient baggage-handling facilities, comfortable pas­ senger terminals, accessible sanitation facilities, and effective emergency-response systems. Airport deve­ lopment should not be concentrated exclusively in the two principal cities. Secondary airports in places such as Bamenda, Bertoua, Tiko, Kribi, Garoua, and Maroua could improve access to remote communities, support domestic tourism, and facilitate the movement of busi­ ness people and public officials. Plans by the CCAA in 2024 and 2025 to rehabilitate several secondary airports should be translated into action, supported with appropriate funding and maintenance arrangements. Any serious discussion of improving air transport in Ca­ meroon must confront the persistent difficulties of Ca­ mair-Co, the country's State-owned national airline. A national carrier can promote connectivity, support tourism, facilitate trade, and strengthen a country's in­ ternational visibility. However, these benefits can only be sustained when the airline operates efficiently and responds to market realities. Camair-Co has faced financial and operational difficulties that have limited its ability to compete effectively with established regional and international airlines. Cameroon must continue strengthening regulatory oversight, airport security, air navigation systems, meteorological services, and emergency preparedness. While it is true that CCAA's stated priorities have included enhanced su­ pervision of aviation operators, improved airport security, and the modernisation of relevant infrastructure, these measures should be sustained through systematic ins­ pections, effective enforcement, and continuous technical upgrading. The exploration of carefully structured partnerships with credible domestic and international investors is essential. Private participation cou...