(Posted 13th January 2026)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech you can read every week the arguably most comprehensive aviation updates available from all over Africa
Introduction.
Global travel agent bodies, including Universal Federation of Travel Agents Associations | UFTAA and WTAAA, have strongly opposed IATA’s decision to impose standardized worldwide remittance periods under the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP), arguing that it threatens competition, raises costs, and undermines local market practices. The change overrides locally tailored credit arrangements that account for national financial systems and commercial realities, which travel agents have relied on for sustainable operations. Critics warn that rigid global remittance timelines would force agents to pre-finance airline revenues, increasing liquidity pressures and ultimately driving higher ticket prices, reducing service options, and weakening market resilience. The federations further claim the decision constitutes an abuse of structural monopoly power, undermines collaborative governance, and creates systemic competition-law risks, as airlines unilaterally set terms while agents lack voting rights. They are calling for a reversal of the decision and a return to locally governed remittance schedules to protect market fairness, economic sovereignty, and the long-term interests of passengers.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
Five Nigerian states have agreed to jointly fund the launch of a proposed regional airline called North?East Air Shuttle to improve connectivity in northeastern Nigeria, with each state committing NGN?5?billion (??USD?3.5?million) toward the NGN?30?billion (??USD?21?million) project. The participating states — Gombe, Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Taraba, and Yobe — plan to use the funds to acquire two aircraft and operate services within and beyond the region to support economic development and more reliable air links. The initiative, originally conceived in 2020, aims to boost intra?regional connectivity, though the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has not yet received a licence application from the venture.
Mozambican airline LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES announced that fresh food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and unpackaged dairy products, are no longer allowed in hand luggage or the aircraft cabin, effective 8 January 2026. The restriction aims to ensure flight safety, prevent contamination or unpleasant odors, and maintain passenger comfort. LAM clarified that these perishable goods may still be transported in checked baggage or as cargo if all safety and operational requirements are met, highlighting the policy as part of ongoing measures to guarantee safe and efficient operations.
Morocco’s government has approved a draft decree to establish the Moroccan Academy of Aviation Professions, managed by Royal Air Maroc (RAM), to train specialized personnel for the country’s growing aviation sector. The academy will provide integration, on-the-job, and continuous training for employees, as well as pre-employment programs, supporting RAM’s planned fleet expansion of up to 200 aircraft by 2037. The initiative aligns with the National Industrial Takeoff Charter, recognizing aviation as a key growth industry, and benefits from partnerships with local and international actors like Safran. The aerospace sector, which generated over $2.54?billion in export revenues in 2024, hosts more than 150 companies in Morocco, with incentives including 0% corporate tax for five years, reduced rates thereafter, VAT exemptions, duty-free equipment imports, and subsidized land and utilities, reflecting the country’s strategy to build a competitive and skilled aviation workforce.
Aviation Projections and Statistics.
In 2025, Egypt’s civil aviation sector achieved record-breaking performance, cementing its status as a major global aviation hub. Cairo International Airport handled 30,944,269 passengers, a 6.8% increase from 2024, while 224,303 flights were operated, up 4.8%, reflecting robust domestic and international traffic growth. Regional airports saw even higher growth, accommodating 28 million passengers, a 22.3% rise, with 209,800 flights, marking a 20.7% increase. Egypt gained significant international recognition, with Engineer Ayman Arab appointed as an advisor to the ACI World Governing Board, and multiple airports receiving awards for sustainability and waste management. Infrastructure modernization included the launch of the AI-powered “Ask Maryam” passenger assistant at Cairo and Sphinx airports, upgrades to firefighting and medical services, and preparations for Cairo Terminal 4, designed to add 30 million passenger capacity. Air traffic controllers managed an unprecedented 1,500+ aircraft per day during regional airspace disruptions, demonstrating exceptional operational efficiency.
In 2025, Morocco’s national airports handled 36.6 million passengers, marking an 11% year-on-year increase, driven in part by the Africa Cup of Nations. ONDA attributed the growth to its “Airport 2030” strategy, which anticipated rising demand, upgraded infrastructure, enhanced passenger experience, and strengthened air connectivity. Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport exceeded 11 million passengers, a first time milestone in its history, Marrakesh reached 10 million for the first time, and Rabat-Salé saw a 26% surge to 2 million passengers. The five main airports account for around 90% of national traffic, with Casablanca at 32%, Marrakesh 28%, Agadir 10%, and Tangier and Rabat posting growth of 17% and 26% respectively. Meanwhile, Morocco recorded a historic 19.8 million tourist arrivals, a 14% increase over 2024, generating tourism revenues exceeding $13 billion, up 19% from the previous year. Authorities credited this record growth to strengthened international air connections, improved services, diversified tourism offerings, and the high-profile Africa Cup of Nations event, with a target of reaching 26 million tourists by 2030.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Oman and Rwanda formalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in airport development and aviation management. The agreement was signed between the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Oman Airports Management Company, with the goal of exchanging technical expertise, best practices, and operational know-how. The MoU also aims to explore potential joint investment opportunities in aviation-related infrastructure, including airport modernization projects, capacity expansion, and other support services. The partnership reflects both countries’ commitment to boosting air connectivity, improving airport operations, and leveraging aviation as a driver for tourism, trade, and economic growth. This strategic cooperation is expected to strengthen Rwanda’s emerging aviation sector while providing Oman with opportunities for regional engagement in East Africa.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Royal Air Maroc Cargo launched a new dedicated freighter route between Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), near Casablanca, Morocco, and Dakar (DSS), Senegal, on 5 January 2026. The weekly service uses a Boeing 767 freighter with 45 tons of capacity, expanding the airline’s network that already includes Brussels, Istanbul, Bamako, and Ouagadougou. The route strengthens connections between North and West Africa, supporting Senegal’s growing economy and improving reliability, capacity, and speed for customers.
Kuwait Airways is set to launch flights to Sphinx, Egypt, beginning January 15, 2026, with three weekly services on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. The new route provides travellers easy access to Egypt’s iconic heritage sites, including the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, while offering the national carrier’s hallmark comfort and in-flight services. Acting CEO Captain Abdulwahab Ibrahim Al-Shatti emphasized that this expansion reflects Kuwait Airways’ commitment to enhancing its international network, delivering high-quality passenger experiences, and providing diverse travel options for tourism, business, and education.
Air Côte d’Ivoire has rescheduled the launch of its Abidjan–Beirut direct service from 4 January 2026 to 29 March 2026, operating three weekly flights with its newly delivered Airbus A330-900neos, which will also serve the airline’s Paris route. Flight HF910 departs Abidjan in the afternoon, arriving in Beirut around midnight, while return flight HF911 leaves Beirut six hours later, landing in Abidjan by midday. The non-stop service offers a significant time saving over one-stop competitors like Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc. This move forms part of the carrier’s broader long-haul expansion strategy, including increased Abidjan–Paris frequencies, and positions Air Côte d’Ivoire to strengthen its international network, although experts note the challenges of entering well-served long-haul markets with established competitors.
British holidaymakers and other European travellers will soon have new direct flights to northern Morocco, as Royal Air Maroc plans to launch twice?weekly London Gatwick –Tetouan services beginning March?29,?2026, improving access to a region near Tangier often compared favorably to parts of Spain. The move, supported by the Moroccan National Tourist Office, forms part of RAM’s broader network expansion that also includes additional routes to Brussels, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga and Paris, and is aimed at boosting tourism to an area with rich cultural heritage and scenic coastlines. The service will operate with Embraer 190 aircraft, offering a convenient connection for UK travellers to explore northern Morocco’s historic cities and resorts.
Ethiopian Airlines will launch a thrice-weekly service to Lyon, France, via Geneva, starting 2 July 2026, expanding its French network alongside Paris and Marseille. Operated with Airbus A350-900 aircraft on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the route enhances connectivity between southeastern France and over 65 African destinations through Addis Ababa, supporting tourism, business, and diaspora travel. The expansion aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 strategy, leveraging its modern fleet of 150+ aircraft, ongoing infrastructure investments like Bishoftu International Airport, and multi-hub partnerships across Africa.
SAUDI AIRLINES has taken over Hajj charter operations for Comoros for the 2026 pilgrimage season, replacing flynas as the designated carrier for those specific flights. The change reflects a revision in charter assignments for the upcoming Hajj period, although the full details of the contract terms, aircraft types, schedule, or the reasons for the switch were not available in the publicly accessible summary. The move aligns with broader seasonal reallocations of Hajj charter capacity — where national and regional carriers are assigned flights by organizing authorities to transport pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia for the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
Oman Air has announced the launch of direct flights between Muscat, Oman, and Kigali, Rwanda, scheduled to begin in June 2026, pending regulatory approval. The new route underscores both countries’ commitment to strengthening international connectivity, promoting trade, investment, tourism, and economic cooperation. Omani officials highlighted the role of air transport in enhancing bilateral ties and positioning Muscat as a regional aviation hub, while Rwandan authorities emphasized Kigali’s growing ambition as an international aviation and economic hub.
Air Mauritius will not resume flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) before April 2027 due to binding slot lease agreements and operational constraints, having shifted its London services to Gatwick Airport (LGW) in October 2023. The national carrier has historically held three slot pairs at Heathrow, currently leased to Qatar Airways for roughly US$881,000 (?Rs 41.4 million) annually, which legally blocks earlier operations. Strategic and financial analyses, including recommendations from Consultants, highlighted limited growth potential at Heathrow, high charges, and weak partnership prospects, leading to the Gatwick move where daily operations, schedule flexibility, and collaboration with EasyJet improve connectivity and cost efficiency. Despite the shift, the Mauritius–London Gatwick route has recorded significant losses—around Rs 2.6 billion (?US$55.5 million) over 17 months—prompting frequency reductions from seven to five weekly flights.
Somaliland has banned and suspended flights by Djibouti’s flag carrier, AIR DJIBOUTI, to Hargeisa, effective 7 January 2026, as diplomatic tensions between the self?declared republic and Djibouti escalate following Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland. The suspension halts the airline’s regular services between Djibouti City and Hargeisa, disrupting one of the key air links in the Horn of Africa and signaling a significant deterioration in bilateral relations amid a broader political row over sovereignty and regional alignment. The decision follows retaliatory diplomatic moves, including the closure of Somaliland’s liaison office in Djibouti and recalls of representatives, and could have immediate impacts on regional travel, commerce, and connectivity for passengers and businesses that depend on the route.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Algeria has taken delivery of a factory-new Gulfstream Aerospace GVII-G600 business jet for governmental use in late December 2025, further strengthening the country’s state aviation capabilities. Registered 7T-VPB, the ultra-long-range, twin-engine aircraft is among Gulfstream’s most advanced platforms, offering intercontinental range, high-speed cruise performance, and a modern avionics suite tailored for long-haul VIP and official missions. With this addition, the Algerian government now operates a fleet of four VIP transport aircraft, comprising an Airbus A340-500 (7T-VPP) delivered in 2008 for long-range state travel, two ATR 72s (7T-VPE and 7T-VPF) delivered in 2014 and 2015 for regional VIP operations, and the newly delivered Gulfstream G600, which introduces a modern, efficient option for high-level diplomatic and governmental transport.
Kenya Airways is accelerating its cargo growth strategy, aiming to increase the sector’s contribution to group revenues from 10% to 20% in 2026 by introducing widebody freighters. The airline plans to add its first Boeing 767 freighter by the end of Q1, followed by a second, as a bridge toward operating three Boeing 777Fs by 2030. Currently, the carrier operates four narrowbody freighters, including two 737-800s introduced in 2024. The widebody freighters will enhance capacity for Asia-Pacific markets such as Guangzhou and Hong Kong, catering to perishable goods and e-commerce, with potential technical stops in the Middle East. Alongside fleet expansion, Kenya Airways Cargo is investing in digital systems for capacity planning, real-time tracking, and yield optimisation, while strengthening its network through interline agreements and MOUs with airlines including Qatar Airways and AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED. The airline is also expanding specialised cargo services for pharma, e-commerce, express, courier, and perishables, reflecting a broader strategy to stabilise revenues and mitigate passenger market volatility.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Egypt will phase out paper departure cards at all airports by the end of January 2026, replacing them with a digital system to streamline passenger processing and improve the overall travel experience, Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El-Hefny announced. The initiative is part of a broader modernization program that includes an integrated electronic visa system and faster handling of emergency visas. Operational improvements have already been made, such as faster baggage delivery—first bags now arriving within 20 minutes and the last within 40 minutes—aimed at reducing wait times and enhancing efficiency. These reforms are expected to modernize Egypt’s airport services and support growth in inbound tourism.
Ethiopian Airlines Group has officially begun construction of its $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport, set to become Africa’s largest airport and the airline’s first mega-hub, with a projected capacity of 110 million passengers annually. Phase One, expected to open by 2030, will include two parallel runways, two passenger terminals, a cargo terminal with 1.5 million tonnes annual capacity, an airport hotel, and parking for 180 aircraft, handling 60 million passengers. The project is funded 30% by the airline, with the remainder sourced from domestic and international lenders including the African Development Bank. Infrastructure upgrades include highways and a high-speed rail link to Addis Ababa, enabling operational speeds of 120–200 km/h to expand the airport’s catchment area.
Guinea has advanced the expansion and modernisation of Ahmed Sékou Touré (Conakry Gbessia) International Airport by signing a memorandum of understanding with Turkey’s Albayrak Group to finance Phase?2 of the project, moving the initiative forward under the government’s Simandou?2040 economic strategy. The expansion is part of broader efforts to upgrade the airport’s capacity and infrastructure to better support passenger growth, cargo handling, and overall transport connectivity for Conakry and the wider region. Previously, the airport has been undergoing phased modernisation that includes new passenger and freight facilities and is expected to significantly increase capacity and operational efficiency as part of Guinea’s long?term aviation and economic development plans.
Libyan Airlines has successfully completed its first in-country heavy maintenance (C7 check) on an Airbus A320, marking a historic milestone for the country’s civil aviation sector. The aircraft has returned to operational service after passing its flight test, with all technical work carried out in accordance with approved standards. Previously, such complex inspections were conducted abroad at a cost exceeding $2 million per aircraft. This achievement, accomplished entirely by Libyan engineers and technicians, reflects the national workforce’s capability to transform challenges into tangible results. It forms part of the airline’s broader rescue plan to localize aircraft maintenance, reduce operating costs, strengthen reliance on national expertise, and ensure the long-term sustainability of Libya’s air fleet, signaling a new era of self-sufficiency and operational resilience for the sector.
Airports of Mauritius Co Ltd. has invited bids for the construction of a new runway and associated facilities at Plaine Corail Airport on Rodrigues Island, reflecting a major infrastructure expansion for Mauritius’ regional aviation network. The scope of work includes building a 2,100?m long by 45?m wide runway with shoulders and turn pads capable of accommodating A321?type aircraft, as well as related airport infrastructure. This project is part of the broader Rodrigues Airport development programme, financed with support from The World Bank and other partners, and is designed to improve air connectivity, safety, and operational efficiency for the island. The tender is open without prequalification requirements, enabling eligible contractors to submit proposals for the works, which are expected to enhance the island’s accessibility and support economic and tourism growth.
Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has awarded the MAD 12.8 billion ($1.28 billion) contract for a new terminal at Casablanca Mohammed V Airport to a 100% Moroccan consortium led by SGTM and TGCC, marking the largest airport construction project in the country’s history. The terminal, spanning 600,000 square meters, will accommodate 20 million passengers annually in its first phase, expandable to 30 million, and feature advanced systems including automated baggage handling, intelligent passenger flow, and direct connection to the future Tangier-Marrakech high-speed rail line. Construction is scheduled over 40 months, targeting mid-2029 completion, with the project forming a cornerstone of ONDA’s “Airport 2030” strategy and supporting preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The design draws inspiration from Morocco’s Atlantic heritage, incorporating traditional architectural motifs, green oasis zones, VIP lounges, commercial areas, and a hotel with runway views. Additional infrastructure includes a new parallel runway, aircraft parking, and a 42-meter control tower.
Royal Air Maroc is expanding its network with a new air base at Tetouan–Sania R’mel Airport, developed in partnership with the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT), to boost connectivity in northern Morocco. Beginning March 27, 2026, Tetouan will be directly linked to six major European cities—Paris-CDG, London-Gatwick, Brussels, Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga—and the domestic Tetouan–Casablanca route will gain three additional weekly flights to improve hub connections. All services will operate with Embraer 190 aircraft, offering modern comfort for regional travel. The expansion responds to strong mobility demand, supports tourism and economic development in the north, and aligns with ONMT’s strategy for balanced and sustainable tourism growth, with tickets available from January 7, 2026.
Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has launched an Airport Operational Center (APOC) at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, creating a 24/7 hub to coordinate airport operations, security, airlines, ground handling, air traffic control, and maintenance. The center, operational during AFCON 2025 and future events, aims to reduce passenger waiting times, improve resource coordination, and enhance operational efficiency.
The Mayor of Mogadishu and Governor of the Banadir Region has officially inaugurated a new parking facility at Aden Adde International Airport, addressing a long-standing need for travelers and airport users. The modern facility is expected to improve convenience, enhance commercial services, and boost the airport’s overall appearance. Somali Civil Aviation Authority Director General Ahmed Maalin noted that the parking area is the first phase of a broader plan to redesign and beautify the airport’s front section, forming part of ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure and service delivery at Somalia’s main international gateway.
Nigeria’s 20a26 Appropriation Bill has earmarked ?87.3?billion (approximately USD?100?million) for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, along with four aviation agencies, to support operations and development within the sector. The funding, presented to the National Assembly in December 2025, aims to strengthen civil aviation infrastructure and services. Notably, key bodies such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) were excluded from the allocations, sparking discussions on funding priorities and strategic investment in the industry.
Sections of the newly renovated roof at Moshoeshoe I International Airport in Lesotho were blown off by strong winds on New Year’s Eve, exposing the ongoing controversy surrounding the project. The M184-million contract, awarded to LSP Construction—a firm with no prior airport experience and linked to Public Works and Transport Minister Matjato Moteane—had been previously flagged by three parliamentary committees for mis-procurement, conflicts of interest, and non-compliance with the law, including ICAO safety standards. Despite warnings, the ministry proceeded, risking loss of international accreditation. The committees recommended canceling the contract, removing the minister, and re-tendering through an open international process. About 30% of the new roofing sheets were damaged, and a structural integrity report will precede re-roofing, though the minister insisted the project would still meet its July 2026 completion deadline.
VISA/Passports/Consulates/Travel.
The United States has expanded its visa bond pilot program to include a total of 38 countries, with 25 additional states — many of them in Africa — being added to the list effective January 21, 2026. Under the updated policy, nationals from these countries may be required to post refundable bonds of USD 5,000, USD 10,000 or USD 15,000 when applying for non-immigrant B1/B2 visas, with the exact amount set during the visa interview. Among the African states newly subject to this requirement are Algeria, Angola, Benin, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Gabon, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, reflecting a significant focus on the continent in the latest round of travel restrictions. The broader objective cited by the U.S. government is to deter visa overstays, though the measures have drawn criticism for potentially imposing steep financial barriers to travel.
The Republic of Chad officially opened its embassy in Cotonou, Benin, on 2 January 2026, marking the country’s first permanent diplomatic mission in Benin and extending its jurisdiction to Togo, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire. The mission is currently headed by Mori Tomasta Namde as First Counselor and Chargé d’Affaires ad interim and is temporarily based in the Haie Vive district, operating from the former premises of the Chadian Consulate General. The opening comes at a time when Chad is downsizing several overseas missions due to budgetary constraints, highlighting a deliberate strategic choice to retain a focused diplomatic presence in West Africa.
Egypt aims to attract 30 million tourists annually, building on a record 19 million arrivals in 2025, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced. The growth has been supported by attractions such as the Grand Egyptian Museum, while the government is focusing on streamlining airport procedures, expanding hotel capacity, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Measures under review include the pilot implementation of an integrated electronic visa system and simplified emergency visa issuance at ports of entry to reduce congestion and improve efficiency. The meeting involved key officials from tourism, civil aviation, communications, interior, and customs authorities, reflecting a coordinated effort to boost Egypt’s global competitiveness as a premier tourist destination.
Kenya is spending about KSh720 million (??USD?5.5?million) annually to support its electronic travel authorisation (eTA) system, which replaced traditional visa requirements and pre?screens international visitors before travel as part of the country’s drive to grow inbound tourism and streamline entry procedures. Budget documents show the government plans to invest up to KSh20 billion (??USD?153?million) over 14 years on the system, with roughly 80 percent of the costs going to consultants and fees and KSh1 billion (??USD?7.6?million) allocated to the system itself, with similar yearly allocations planned through 2028/29. The eTA mechanism aims to enhance security through automated background checks and risk profiling, reduce processing time at border points, improve data interoperability, and support higher visitor numbers, particularly after Kenya exempted most African nationals from the requirement to boost touristic and business travel. Since the eTA’s introduction, Kenya has recorded an increase in non?Kenyan arrivals, reflecting early results of the visa?free policy in stimulating travel demand.
People/Appointments.
Togo has reappointed Kanka-Malik Natchaba as chief executive of Société Aéroportuaire de Lomé-Tokoin (SALT), the state-owned operator of Lomé’s main airport, replacing Brigadier General Dimini Allaharé. Natchaba previously led SALT from 2016 to 2017 and has held key government roles, including minister of higher education and secretary general of the government. His return is aimed at modernizing Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport and advancing Lomé’s ambitions as a regional logistics hub. The airport remains a vital West African connectivity center, notably serving carriers such as ASKY Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines.
Nairobi-based cargo airline Astral Aviation Ltd has promoted Charles Ngwalla to head of interline, partnerships & product development, moving him from his previous role as head of alliances and key accounts. In his new position, Ngwalla is responsible for developing strategic interline and airline partnerships and designing cargo products that enhance Astral’s growth, network relevance, and yield optimization across African and intercontinental markets. The role integrates commercial strategy, operations, and partner execution. Ngwalla has been with Astral for several years and previously worked at Kenya Airways. The promotion reflects Astral’s continued expansion, including new frequencies and the addition of a Haikou–Johannesburg route in 2025.
Unions at Madagascar Airlines have publicly protested proposed staff transfer terms, raising concerns that the changes—seen as part of broader restructuring efforts amid national unrest—could negatively affect employment conditions, transparency, and workers’ rights. The dispute reflects wider dissatisfaction among aviation staff during a turbulent period for the airline and the country, where political unrest has already impacted operations and travel confidence. Union leaders argue that the transfer terms lack clarity and adequate consultation, particularly regarding reassignment locations, salary adjustments, and contract changes, and have intensified calls for stronger collective bargaining power. This industrial tension adds to other challenges facing the airline, including financial strain, leadership pressures, and efforts to stabilise and restructure operations as Madagascar navigates ongoing social and economic volatility.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Etihad is celebrating 20 years of its Johannesburg route, a cornerstone of its African operations since launching in 2005. The route has carried nearly two million passengers, strengthening cultural, commercial, and tourism ties between the UAE and South Africa. In 2025, over 100,000 travelers flew the Johannesburg-Abu Dhabi link, which also offers seamless connections to destinations across the Middle East, Europe, North America, Asia, and the Indian Subcontinent. Corporate travel on the route surged by more than 50% last year, reflecting strong business demand.
Lawsuits/Investigations.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, has arraigned Austrian national Kavlak Onal for allegedly failing to declare large sums of foreign currency while attempting to travel from Nigeria. Onal was intercepted on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Currency Declaration Desk at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, while preparing to board an Emirates flight to Dubai. Authorities reported that he was found with $800,575 and €651,505, which he did not declare as required by law. Onal was arraigned before Justice Yelim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, January 9, 2026, with the EFCC expected to continue its investigation and prosecution under Nigeria’s anti-money laundering regulations.
The Dakar High Court has referred a legal dispute involving Air Sénégal S.A to arbitration, part of a broader, ongoing conflict over aircraft lease obligations and financial liabilities. The case likely stems from a long?running dispute with lessors such as Carlyle Aviation Partners and affiliated SPVs, which terminated leases on four Airbus aircraft after rent arrears and maintenance disagreements, sparking legal actions in both Senegal and international jurisdictions. The arbitration referral suggests that the court sees specialised dispute resolution—common in aviation leasing and financing—as more appropriate than civil litigation, particularly given the complex contractual and international elements of the case. The underlying issue has seen lessors seek to enforce repossession of aircraft, claims for damages, and parallel legal actions, including in New York, amid Air?Sénégal’s broader financial and fleet challenges.
A private aviation company, Harmony Jets, is under investigation by the Lyon Public Prosecutor’s Office for suspected violations of the arms embargo on Libya. Headquartered in Malta and led by former French pilot Pierre-Olivier Édouard, the company operates flights to conflict zones, including regular flights to Benghazi since 2018. The probe, assigned to France’s National Office for Anti-Fraud (ONAF), follows reports of a drone being seized at Lyon–Bron Airport aboard a Harmony Jets Falcon aircraft. Harmony Jets was also mentioned in a December 2024 UN Security Council Panel of Experts report linking Irish paramilitary company ETS to the transport of personnel and equipment to forces allied with Khalifa Haftar, with suspicions that “mercenaries” may have used Harmony Jets aircraft. Édouard denied any involvement in transporting weapons or hazardous cargo, asserting that the company is reputable and has long collaborated with European government organizations, but he declined to provide passenger lists.
Somalia has launched an urgent investigation into reports that its airspace and airports were allegedly used without authorization to facilitate the escape of Yemeni fugitive Aidrous al-Zubaidi, head of the Southern Transitional Council (STC). The Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) stressed that any unauthorized entry or transit on Somali territory violates national law and sovereignty and pledged accountability if violations are confirmed. According to the Saudi-led coalition, al-Zubaidi and associates fled Aden by maritime vessel to Berbera, Somaliland, before being flown on an Ilyushin Il-76 to Mogadishu and then onward to Abu Dhabi, with flight tracking systems intermittently disabled. The incident follows Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council expelling al-Zubaidi and referring him to the public prosecutor over allegations of high treason, abuse of the southern cause, attacks on constitutional authority, and actions undermining state security and unity.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On 8 January 2026, the Democratic Republic of Congo marked the 30th anniversary of one of Africa’s deadliest aviation disasters, when a Russian-built Antonov An-32B cargo plane crashed into Kinshasa’s Type K market shortly after departing Ndolo Airport on 8 January 1996. Operated by Moscow Airways for Air Africa and leased to Scibe Airlift, the overloaded aircraft failed to take off and slammed into the crowded market, killing at least 237 people and injuring hundreds more. While four of the six crew survived, only 66 of the victims on the ground could be identified. Over the years, the site became a place of remembrance, with annual prayers and ceremonies, and was eventually rebuilt with support from the Congolese government and a Chinese company. Today, the market is bustling again, continuing its legacy as a center of commerce, though many families are still awaiting full compensation from the airlines responsible.
On Friday, 9 January 2026, a Baykar Bayraktar Ak?nc? unmanned aerial vehicle operated by the Sudanese Air Force was reportedly shot down in Nyala, South Darfur, Sudan. The incident occurred during a combat mission, resulting in the complete destruction of the aircraft. As the platform was unmanned, there were no occupants and no fatalities reported.
On January 9, 2026, Emirates flight EK261, an Airbus A380 (registration A6-EUG) operating from Dubai to São Paulo, was diverted to Accra, Ghana, after technical warnings indicated smoke in the forward cargo compartment. The aircraft, carrying 487 passengers across four classes, landed safely at Kotoka International Airport at 4:30 pm local time—marking only the third A380 visit to Accra. Inspections revealed a system malfunction rather than an active fire. The flight departed Accra at 7:31 pm and arrived in São Paulo six hours behind schedule, with the return leg delayed by 90 minutes.
The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) denied permits for American YouTuber Darren Watkins Jr., known as IShowSpeed, to land in Namibia on 8 January 2026, citing regulatory non-compliance. The private jet intended for his “Speed Does Africa” tour could not receive a foreign operator permit because the application was submitted less than 11 hours before the planned arrival, well below the required processing timeframe of up to 14 days. NCAA spokesperson Nelson Ashipala emphasized that safety and regulatory compliance take priority, and recommended using a local licensed operator. The cancellation sparked public criticism, with political figures and citizens highlighting a missed tourism and global publicity opportunity, noting IShowSpeed’s 30 million subscribers.
Other information:
The Libyan Air Ambulance Service has launched its first international helicopter operations, marking a major expansion of its capabilities beyond fixed-wing aircraft. The service successfully completed its inaugural international mission by transporting a critically ill patient from Tripoli’s Mitiga Airport to Sfax-Thyna Airport in Tunisia, fully adhering to aviation safety standards and medical protocols. The mission highlights the Service’s operational preparedness, professional competence, and effective coordination among medical, aircrew, operations, and technical teams. This achievement reinforces its ability to execute complex domestic and international missions rapidly and safely, ensuring timely medical response when every second counts, and forms part of its ongoing efforts to expand and modernize its fleet and emergency response capabilities.
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