The African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have urged African governments implementing Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems to align them with international standards and best practices.

The aviation bodies said passenger data systems are critical tools for strengthening border security, supporting law enforcement and facilitating the movement of legitimate travellers, but stressed the need for proper legal and operational frameworks.

In a joint statement issued on July 30, 2026, the organisations said governments must ensure that API and PNR programmes meet key principles, including legality, proportionality, purpose limitation, consistency and data security.

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They explained that countries should establish clear legal frameworks that define the data required, identify responsible authorities and ensure compliance with international standards developed by bodies including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The groups also cautioned governments against collecting excessive passenger information, urging them to gather only data necessary for legitimate purposes such as border control, security and crime prevention.

“Collect only data necessary for the intended purpose, in line with Guidelines on Advance Passenger Information adopted by the World Customs Organization/IATA/ICAO and ICAO Guidelines on Passenger Name Record Data,” the statement said.

They further called for safeguards to prevent discrimination in the use of passenger data and urged authorities to ensure that information is stored and transferred securely.

The aviation bodies also opposed plans by some governments to finance API and PNR programmes through charges imposed on airlines and passengers.

According to them, border security remains a government responsibility, and related costs should not be passed on to travellers or carriers.

“Imposing API and PNR fees on airlines to fund government border security programmes increases the cost of travel, undermines connectivity, and weakens the economic benefits that aviation generates through tourism, trade, and investment,” they stated.

Abdérahmane Berthé, Secretary General of AFRAA; Aaron Munetsi, Chief Executive Officer of AASA; and Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, said a coordinated approach would improve security while keeping air travel affordable.

“We support the implementation of Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record data transfer and recognize the important role passenger data plays in keeping borders secure,” they said.

“However, these systems must be aligned around internationally recognised standards and funded correctly.”

The organisations said they remain committed to working with African governments, regional institutions and international partners to support passenger data systems that enhance security while promoting safe and efficient air transport across the continent.

MA