I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality with deep roots in the travel and tourism industry across Southern Africa. With her sharp insights into entertainment and events, particularly expos and conferences, Katarina brings a unique perspective on the significance of major regional gatherings like the upcoming 55th AASA Annual General Assembly in Lusaka, co-hosted by Proflight Zambia. Today, we’ll dive into the impact of this event on aviation and tourism, explore the challenges and opportunities within the sector, and discuss how such assemblies shape the future of connectivity and hospitality in the region.
What does it mean for an airline like Proflight Zambia to take on the role of official co-host for a major event like the AASA Annual General Assembly in Lusaka?
It’s a tremendous honor and a significant responsibility. Co-hosting an event of this caliber puts Proflight Zambia at the forefront of regional aviation conversations, showcasing their commitment to advancing the industry in Southern Africa. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about representing Zambian hospitality and proving their capability as a key player in connecting the region. They’re essentially the face of the event for many attendees, setting the tone for collaboration and innovation.
How do you think Proflight Zambia was chosen for such a prestigious role?
I believe it comes down to their growing presence in the regional market and their dedication to improving connectivity. Proflight has been expanding routes and investing in modernizing their operations, which likely caught the attention of the AASA organizers. Plus, being based in Lusaka, they have a home advantage and a vested interest in promoting Zambia as a hub for aviation and tourism discussions.
Can you paint a picture of what attendees might experience at the CIELA Resort in Lusaka during the Assembly?
The CIELA Resort is a fantastic venue that blends modern amenities with the warmth of Zambian culture. Attendees can expect a serene yet professional setting, ideal for networking and deep discussions. Lusaka itself offers a vibrant backdrop—think bustling markets, rich history, and a welcoming atmosphere. The event will likely balance intense industry sessions with moments to unwind and soak in the local flavor, especially during social highlights like the Gala Dinner.
How will an event like this showcase the best of Zambian hospitality to regional leaders?
Zambian hospitality is all about warmth and authenticity, and I’m sure Proflight Zambia, alongside other local partners, will go all out to make delegates feel at home. From personalized welcomes at the airport to cultural performances and cuisine at the Gala Dinner, every touchpoint will reflect Zambia’s spirit. It’s a chance to leave a lasting impression on industry leaders who might then advocate for more tourism or business ties with the country.
The theme for the 2025 Assembly is ‘Believe, Stop, Improve.’ How do you interpret this in the context of Southern African aviation?
I see it as a call to action. ‘Believe’ speaks to having confidence in the potential of aviation to drive economic growth in the region. ‘Stop’ might mean pausing to reassess outdated practices or policies that hinder progress, like restrictive regulations. And ‘Improve’ is about actionable steps—whether it’s better connectivity, sustainability, or digital tools. It’s a powerful framework for tackling the industry’s biggest challenges with optimism and clarity.
What role do you think events like the AASA Assembly play in addressing shared challenges such as high operating costs or infrastructure issues?
These gatherings are invaluable because they bring everyone to the same table—airlines, regulators, policymakers, and more. High operating costs and infrastructure bottlenecks aren’t unique to one carrier; they’re regional headaches. The Assembly creates a space for open dialogue, where best practices can be shared and joint solutions brainstormed. It’s often the starting point for initiatives that might take years to bear fruit but are critical for long-term growth.
With Proflight Zambia expanding routes to places like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and soon Windhoek, how does this contribute to the broader goal of intra-African connectivity?
It’s a game-changer. Every new route shortens the distance—both literally and figuratively—between African nations. Proflight’s expansion makes travel within the region easier for tourists and business travelers alike, fostering trade, cultural exchange, and investment. It aligns perfectly with initiatives like the Single African Air Transport Market, which aims to break down barriers and create a more seamless network of flights across the continent.
What do you see as the biggest hurdle in rolling out these new regional routes?
Infrastructure and regulatory alignment are often the sticking points. Not every airport in the region has the capacity to handle increased traffic, and harmonizing policies across borders can be a slow process. For an airline like Proflight, balancing the cost of expansion with demand forecasting is also tricky. They have to ensure these routes are sustainable, not just ambitious.
Proflight Zambia is moving toward becoming fully cashless by November 2025. Why do you think digital transformation is so critical for airlines today?
Digital transformation is no longer optional; it’s essential for staying competitive. Going cashless streamlines operations, reduces errors, and enhances the customer experience with faster, more secure transactions. For passengers, it means convenience—booking or paying for extras with a tap on their phone. For airlines, it’s about efficiency and adapting to global trends where digital payments are becoming the norm, especially for international travelers.
What’s your forecast for the future of regional aviation in Southern Africa over the next decade?
I’m cautiously optimistic. If initiatives like the AASA Assembly continue to foster collaboration, I think we’ll see stronger connectivity and more efficient operations across the region. Sustainability will likely take center stage, with airlines investing in greener technologies despite the cost challenges. Digital tools will become even more integrated into the travel experience. However, the pace of change will depend on how quickly governments and industry players can align on regulations and infrastructure upgrades. It’s a complex puzzle, but the potential for growth is immense.
