(Posted 13th June 2026)
Courtesy of Mr. Alex Koech and AeroTrail Ltd.
The past week in African aviation was marked by significant route expansions, with five new services launched and several others announced, further strengthening connectivity across the continent and beyond. Alongside network growth, key developments were recorded in infrastructure, airline expansion, regulatory frameworks, and strategic partnerships, reflecting the continued momentum of Africa’s aviation sector.
Below are some of the key highlights of the week:
1 Authorities in the DRC reopened Bunia Airport in Ituri Province, the epicentre of the country’s recent Ebola outbreak, following a sharp decline in suspected cases, enabling the gradual resumption of air services under strict health protocols.
2 Cairo International Airport recorded a strong performance in May 2026, handling approximately 2.225 million passengers across 17,480 flights, marking a new monthly record and underscoring sustained growth in regional and international traffic.
3 The ETHIOPIAN House of People’s Representatives ratified landmark aviation proclamations with Angola, Bangladesh, Eswatini, and Sierra Leone, aimed at enhancing air connectivity, reducing operational costs, and supporting Ethiopia’s hub strategy.
4 Edelweiss Air AG its inaugural Zurich–Windhoek service on 1 June 2026, marking the first nonstop commercial connection between SWITZERLAND and NAMIBIA, and strengthening long-haul tourism and trade flows.
5 Royal Air Maroc inaugurated a historic Casablanca–Los Angeles route on 7 June 2026, establishing the first direct air link between AFRICA and the United_States West Coast, and expanding Africa’s intercontinental reach.
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