Kora, a payment infrastructure platform, has integrated with the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Financial Gateway, giving airlines and travel agencies a unified way to process payments across Africa. The move allows carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways—along with global players like Emirates and British Airways—to accept cards, bank transfers, mobile money, and local alternative payment methods without managing multiple integrations.
Solving Africa's Payment Fragmentation
Africa's aviation market is on a steep growth trajectory, with projections of over 300 million new passengers by 2050. Yet airlines entering or expanding in the region have long grappled with fragmented payment systems, complex foreign exchange processes, and limited access to local payment methods. The Kora-IATA partnership directly addresses these hurdles by providing a single connection through the IATA Financial Gateway, which already serves more than 370 international airlines.
Dickson Nsofor, CEO of Kora, emphasized the strategic importance of the collaboration: “Africa is not a market to figure out later. It is a growth opportunity that demands serious infrastructure today. Our partnership with IATA signals that the rails are ready.”
Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA's Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, highlighted the practical benefits: “Kora's participation strengthens our ability to serve airlines operating in or expanding across African markets.” The integration means carriers can now offer passengers payment options ranging from M-Pesa in East Africa to Orange Money in Francophone West Africa, alongside traditional credit cards.
Broader Industry Context
The announcement comes as airlines worldwide seek to streamline ancillary revenue collection and improve customer experience. For example, Loganair recently deployed OpenAirlines' SkyBreathe AI to cut fuel use, while LIFT tapped AirlinePros as its UK GSA to expand international trade reach. Similarly, SriLankan Airlines expanded its Saudi network via codeshares with Saudia and Flynas, and flydubai launched daily Dubai–Pokhara flights—all reflecting the industry's push for operational efficiency and network growth.
For travel agents and tour operators, the Kora-IATA link simplifies booking and payment reconciliation, especially for itineraries spanning multiple African countries. Hoteliers and cruise lines eyeing the continent's rising middle class also stand to benefit from a more seamless payment ecosystem.
The integration marks a significant step in reducing friction for airlines operating in Africa, potentially accelerating the continent's aviation growth and connectivity. As Nsofor put it, the infrastructure is now ready for serious investment.
