(Posted 11th March 2025)
Introduction.
The African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC, in collaboration with the EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency, successfully hosted the “Introduction to Competition Regulation for African Aviation Experts” training. This initiative brought together aviation professionals from 25 Member States, including representatives from Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs), National Competition Authorities, and the COMESA Competition Commission. The training focused on equipping African aviation stakeholders with critical knowledge of competition regulation, enforcement mechanisms, and anti-competitive practices. By fostering a deeper understanding of fair market principles, the program aims to create a more transparent, competitive, and sustainable air transport industry across the continent.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in collaboration with the Banjul Accord Group Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO), convened the 29th BAGASOO Board of Directors Meeting in Abuja from March 3-4, 2025. BAGASOO, which comprises Nigeria, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, deliberated on strategies to enhance aviation safety oversight and explored alternative financial models to sustain the organization’s operations. Strengthening financial resilience and regional cooperation remains crucial in ensuring continued adherence to international aviation safety standards across West Africa.
Airline Certifications & Expansions.
Aglow Air Cargo, a subsidiary of AGLOW AVIATION SUPPORT Services Ltd, has secured its Air Transport License (ATL) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), paving the way for the airline to launch non-scheduled domestic and continental freighter operations, with a primary focus on West and Central Africa. The carrier is actively seeking to lease two ATR 72-500 freighter aircraft to commence operations.
Omni-Blu Aviation (OBA) has had its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) reinstated by the NCAA after successfully appealing its revocation on January 30, 2025. Having been cleared of all allegations, OBA reaffirms its commitment to regulatory compliance and operational excellence as it marks its 10th anniversary in 2025.
In Zimbabwe, Harare-based Muzo Enterprise, operating as Zimlux Airways, has submitted an application for an air service permit to launch scheduled and non-scheduled passenger, cargo, and courier flights across domestic, regional, and international routes.
Ghana is reviving plans to establish a new national airline, with President H.E John Dramani Mahama announcing that the government will invite expressions of interest from potential investors. This marks a significant step toward reintroducing a national carrier after more than two decades without one.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
Cairo International Airport reported a significant increase in passenger traffic in February 2025, handling 2.42 million passengers, marking an 8% rise compared to February 2024. The airport also recorded a 6% growth in flight operations, with 16,944 flights operated by both national and international airlines. The surge in traffic highlights Cairo’s strategic position as a key aviation hub, with ongoing efforts to enhance
Airbus reported a decline in aircraft deliveries, with January and February 2025 deliveries falling by 18% year-on-year to 65 aircraft. In February alone, 40 jets were delivered. Despite this drop, Airbus secured 14 new orders in February, bringing its total orders for 2025 to 69. After accounting for cancellations, the net order count stands at 65, a notable improvement from 33 net orders in the same period last year. The figures reflect strong market demand despite production constraints, as Airbus continues to ramp up output to meet global airline fleet expansion and modernization needs.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Canada and Ghana have signed their first-ever bilateral air services agreement, allowing multiple airlines from both countries to operate 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly cargo flights. This agreement strengthens trade, tourism, and connectivity between the two nations, with Air Canada expressing interest in launching flights to Ghana.
Ethiopia and Argentina are advancing aviation sector cooperation, with plans to finalize their Air Services Agreement. Argentine aerospace manufacturer FAdeA Oficial is exploring the establishment of a branch in Addis Ababa, aimed at aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and engineering services for the African market.
Egypt and the Republic of Congo reaffirmed their commitment to boosting cooperation in aviation, transportation, and economic sectors during a March 5, 2025, diplomatic meeting. This aligns with Egypt’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with African nations.
Air Algérie has signed a new training contract with CPaT Global LLC, securing a comprehensive pilot training suite for its fleet, including Airbus Aircraft A330, ATR 72, and Boeing 737 variants. This move enhances flight safety and operational efficiency.
EGYPTAIR has partnered with PMI FLIGHT to integrate NDC API-OUT technology, optimizing flight booking distribution and improving inventory control, financial transactions, and operational management. Additionally, at ITB Berlin 2025, the airline secured agreements to promote German tourism to Egypt, including a contract to fly 2,000 tourists to Luxor and Hurghada for the 2027 solar eclipse.
Air France-KLM has expanded its footprint in South Africa through an interline agreement with CemAir (Pty)Ltd, enabling seamless domestic connections via Johannesburg and Cape Town. This partnership enhances travel options for passengers connecting between international and regional destinations.
FlySafair has integrated its low-cost fares into TPConnects Technologies’ Iris platform, allowing travel agencies to book and manage flights across multiple channels, including NDC, GDS, and direct carrier inventory. This expansion strengthens FlySafair’s reach and competitiveness in the digital travel ecosystem.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
On March 3, 2025, Precision Air Tanzania (PW) launched a new passenger route linking Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Iringa, enhancing regional connectivity and economic opportunities. The move makes Precision Air the second airline to serve Iringa, following AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED (ATCL), which resumed flights on February 22, 2025, after airport renovations.
In South Africa, Norse Atlantic Airways is adjusting its London Gatwick–Cape Town schedule. From April 1 to April 27, the airline will increase frequencies from three to four weekly flights (Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays). For the peak season from December 1 to April 2026, the route will again operate four weekly flights to meet rising demand.
Discover Airlines is set to launch direct flights from Munich to Windhoek, Namibia, on April 1, 2025, offering three weekly year-round flights. This expansion complements the airline’s existing Frankfurt–Windhoek service, catering to the increasing demand for leisure travel to Namibia.
Royal Air Maroc Cargo has reinstated direct cargo flights between Casablanca and Beijing Daxing Airport, operating three weekly Boeing 787-9 flights since January 20, 2025. Each flight transports up to 30 tons of freight, strengthening trade ties between China and Morocco. Additionally, the airline has launched a new logistics corridor connecting China and Brazil via São Paulo (GRU).
Condor Airlines is expanding its long-haul services to South Africa for the 2025/2026 European winter season, responding to high demand. Starting November 1, 2025, Frankfurt–Cape Town flights will increase from five weekly to daily. Meanwhile, Frankfurt–Johannesburg services will rise from two to three weekly flights, operated by Airbus A330-900neo, offering a modern and fuel-efficient travel experience.
In Egypt, Nesma Airlines has scheduled regular charter flights from Hurghada to Ljubljana for the 2025 summer season, starting April 6. Initially operating once weekly (Sundays), the airline will add a Wednesday service from April 23. These flights, running until late October, will be operated by a 179-seat Airbus A320.
Ethiopian Airlines (ET) is set to enhance its presence in the UK by increasing its Addis Ababa–Manchester service from five weekly flights to a daily operation starting July 3, 2025. This expansion will boost connectivity between Africa and the UK. Additionally, ET is further strengthening its Indian network by launching flights to Hyderabad, its fifth destination in India, effective June 16, 2025. Hyderabad joins Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai in Ethiopian’s growing footprint in India, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to providing enhanced travel options for business and leisure travelers while facilitating stronger trade and tourism links between India and Africa.
CemAir (Pty)Ltd has postponed its planned resumption of commercial flights to and from Plettenberg Bay Airport until at least September 2025. The delay follows the collapse of an operating agreement between Bitou Municipality and Garden Route Aero (GRA), returning airport management to local authorities. The airport remains closed to commercial airline flights until critical runway repairs are completed.
Turkish Airlines, EGYPTAIR, and Qatar Airways have suspended flights to Mogadishu due to security concerns at Aden Adde International Airport following a U.S. Embassy warning of potential terrorist attacks. Turkish Airlines canceled flights from March 6 to 12, while officials confirmed an indefinite suspension of services for both carriers. However, other international and regional airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, continue to operate flights to Somalia.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
To meet the surge in passenger demand during the Omra (Umrah) pilgrimage, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has strategically wet-leased two Airbus A330-300 aircraft from Wamos Air. This move enhances capacity, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience for pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia. The additional aircraft enable the airline to optimize its operations during this high-demand religious period while maintaining service excellence.
Kenyan regional carrier Safarilink Aviation has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of a new Cessna 208 EX Caravan, registered 5Y-SLR (MSN 208B5845). The aircraft arrived in Nairobi on March 4, 2025, after a week-long journey from the U.S.. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6-114A engine, the 12-passenger aircraft increases Safarilink’s total fleet to 11 aircraft, including four Dash 8 models. Since its inception in 2004 with two leased aircraft, Safarilink has grown significantly, employing over 250 staff and carrying 360,000 passengers in 2023.
During the ISTAT Americas convention in Phoenix, Aircraft Engine Lease Finance, Inc. (AELF) announced the acquisition of an eight-year-old Airbus A330-300, currently on lease to South African Airways (SAA). The 2016-built aircraft (MSN 1754) was acquired through a transaction arranged by Arena Aviation Capital, a Dutch aviation finance firm. This acquisition reinforces AELF’s growing presence in the long-haul aircraft leasing market.
Tanzanian private airline AURIC AIR SERVICES LIMITED, known for its safari and regional operations, has taken delivery of a new Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX. The aircraft, registered N90094, departed from Wichita Airport, USA, on March 5, 2025, making several fuel stops, including one at Leer/Papenburg Airport, Germany, before reaching its final destination in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The addition enhances Auric Air’s ability to serve remote and wildlife tourism destinations across East Africa.
Mauritania-based Class Aviation has reregistered its sole executive jet, a 27.4-year-old Gulfstream GIV-SP (5T-PCL, MSN 1322), making it the only business jet on the Mauritanian aircraft register. The aircraft departed Madrid Barajas on March 4, 2025, following extensive maintenance at Gestair Private Jets since April 2024. Previously registered in the U.S. as N272TX and later as N966CL, the Gulfstream has been used for state delegations from multiple African nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea-Bissau, and Mali.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has finalized a ?1.097 billion ($730,000) insurance policy to cover all airport assets across the country. This one-year contract, executed by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) upon premium payment, ensures comprehensive coverage for key infrastructure. The policy is underwritten by Leadway Assurance Company Limited, with Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Linkage Assurance Plc, NEM Insurance Company, and Anchor Insurance Plc serving as co-underwriters.
In a move to enhance efficiency and reduce passenger wait times, Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport and Marrakech-Menara Airport have eliminated security inspection devices at terminal entrances. Security checks have been relocated within the terminals, aligning with global best practices while maintaining strict safety standards. The National Airports Office (ONDA) confirmed that the change is part of broader modernization efforts to improve Morocco’s air travel experience.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced the temporary closure of Runway 18R/36L at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos, for maintenance from March 3 to 4, 2025. The closure came just two weeks after the runway’s reopening following an 11-month rehabilitation project. During this period, all flight operations were shifted to the shorter domestic runway (18L/36R), which resulted in delays due to its limited capacity for handling international and domestic flights.
Morocco has allocated MAD 3.27 billion ($327 million) for a major expansion of Tangier Ibn Batouta Airport, with completion set for June 2029. The project will triple the airport’s capacity from 2 million to 7 million annual passengers and cover 199 hectares. Planned developments include a new passenger terminal, control tower, aircraft parking zones, and vehicle parking facilities, alongside smart infrastructure such as E-Gate systems. The expansion supports Morocco’s preparations for hosting AFCON 2025 and co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
Westminster Group plc has signed a 15+ year contract to provide security services at four Gabonese airports, including three international and one domestic airport. The agreement, signed during the National Council for Security and Facilitation of Civil Aviation of Gabon in Libreville, grants Westminster an initial 15-year contract with a five-year renewal option. The deal aims to strengthen aviation security across Gabon, aligning with international safety and regulatory standards.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has updated its Passenger Safety Charge (EV) and Fuel Levy, effective April 1, 2025. The EV charge on airline tickets will increase from R30.77 to R32.19 per passenger, reflecting a 4.6% inflationary adjustment. The fuel levy has also been revised to R0.2286 per litre, applying to all manufactured, distilled, imported, or sold aviation fuel in South Africa. These adjustments aim to support aviation safety programs and regulatory oversight in the country.
VISA/Passports.
Namibia has officially launched its new online visa application system on March 3, 2025, streamlining entry for international travelers. Additionally, the country will introduce a Visa-on-Arrival program starting April 1, 2025, aimed at simplifying immigration processes. Developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, the system allows eligible visitors to apply in advance through Namibia’s e-services portal or upon arrival at designated entry points, significantly reducing wait times at immigration counters. Visa fees are set at NAD 1,600 (approx. USD 90) for non-African countries and NAD 1,200 (approx. USD 70) for African Union citizens.
People/Appointment.
Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka has announced the appointment of Fitsum Abadi Gebrehawaria as the new Cargo Director, effective March 3, 2025. He succeeds Dick Murianki, who transitions to a new role within the airline. Fitsum brings 23 years of experience, having previously served as Managing Director of Ethiopian Cargo since 2014. His career includes leadership roles at DHL Global Forwarding and Mobility Advisory Services, equipping him with strategic expertise to enhance cargo operations and drive business growth at KQ.
Obi Mbanuzuo has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Air Sierra Leone, the country’s new privately owned flag carrier based in Freetown. In his role, Mbanuzuo will oversee operational planning, safety compliance, and commercial strategy. Prior to this, he served as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Green Africa, Nigeria’s Lagos-based airline, since March 2022. His extensive aviation experience positions him well to contribute to Air Sierra Leone’s growth and operational success.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Uganda Airlines (UA) has been named Africa’s airline with the youngest fleet in the 2025 ch-aviation Youngest Fleet Awards. This marks the fifth consecutive year the airline has secured this prestigious recognition. Following Uganda Airlines in the rankings are Air Tanzania in second place, Kenyan low-cost carrier Jambojet in third, Egyptian budget airline Air Cairo in fourth, and Reunion’s flag carrier AIR AUSTRAL rounding out the top five.
Ethiopian Airlines celebrated International Women’s Day 2025 in grand style, with multiple flights operated entirely by women. From catering, maintenance, check-in, and lounge services to cockpit and cabin crew, these flights showcased the airline’s commitment to empowering women in aviation. The special all-female-operated flights departed from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar (Domestic), Athens, Delhi, Dubai, Windhoek, and São Paulo, reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines’ leadership in promoting gender equality in the industry.
Aviation Accidents/Incidents.
On March 7, 2025, a United Nations Mission In South Sudan (UNMISS) helicopter came under fire in Nasir, South Sudan, resulting in one fatality. Reports indicate that 27 South Sudanese soldiers were killed during the evacuation mission. Additionally, there are unconfirmed reports of a second helicopter being downed, though it remains unclear whether the aircraft was struck mid-air or while on the ground, and if the casualties were on board.
On March 8, 2025, a Cessna 152 training aircraft crashed approximately 500 meters from the runway while approaching Voi Airfield (HKGO), Taita Taveta, Kenya. The 20-year-old student pilot, who was the sole occupant, tragically lost his life. The aircraft was partially consumed by fire and completely destroyed.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced the temporary closure of Akure Airport due to severe damage caused by a windstorm during heavy rainfall on March 3, 2025. The storm destroyed critical infrastructure, including the terminal building, staff quarters, essential equipment, and other strategic airport facilities. FAAN is currently assessing the extent of the damage to determine the necessary repairs and reopening timeline.
Cases/Lawsuits.
A Zambian court has admitted the country’s Gulfstream Aerospace G650 presidential jet (AF001, MSN 6335) as evidence in an ongoing high-profile corruption case involving former Ministry of Defence officials. The case revolves around allegations of procurement law violations in the 2017 acquisition of the jet. Prosecutors claim that the defendants circumvented mandatory tender evaluation procedures, leading to the improper procurement of the Gulfstream G650 from Elbit Systems Limited. The trial is expected to shed light on irregularities in government contracts and accountability in high-value defense acquisitions.
In other news:
A high-level European delegation, led by Italy’s Director General of Civil Aviation, visited Tripoli last week to assess Libya’s progress in meeting the conditions for lifting the European Union’s airspace ban. The visit, coordinated with the European Commission, is part of an ongoing review of Libya’s aviation sector reforms, which have been in place since 2022. Over five days, the delegation conducted an in-depth evaluation of aviation regulations, safety monitoring systems, airline oversight, and the effectiveness of Libya’s digital transformation efforts in air safety. The EU is set to hold a key meeting later this month to determine whether Libya’s corrective measures are sufficient to initiate the process of lifting the ban. Libya has been under EU airspace restrictions since 2014 due to safety concerns, preventing its airlines from operating flights to Europe.
In Kenya, the government has introduced a new DNA testing policy for mothers returning to the country with children born abroad to combat child trafficking. The initiative, announced by Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr.Alfred N Mutua, aims to verify biological relationships at entry points and curb rising cases of child trafficking involving Kenyan women giving birth overseas. The policy is expected to enhance child protection efforts while ensuring legitimate parent-child reunions.
Meanwhile, Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport (BATIA) in Minna, Nigeria is set to begin full commercial operations by April 2025. Plans include deploying 10 aircraft, with two dedicated to cargo operations, facilitating trade routes to Brazil and Saudi Arabia. The announcement was made by Governor Umar Bago during a courtesy visit from Seyi Tinubu (President Tinubu’s son), Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande, and National Agricultural Land Development Authority CEO Cornelius Adebayo at Government House in Minna.
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