(Posted 18th March 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech
Introduction.
The BARSA Aviation Summit 2025 took place from March 13 to 14 at the Nombolo Mdhluli Conference Centre in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Organized by the BARSA (Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa), the summit brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and decision-makers to discuss key challenges, policy reforms, and opportunities shaping African aviation. Discussions focused on market liberalization, infrastructure development, sustainability, and technological advancements, emphasizing collaboration to enhance Africa’s global air transport competitiveness.
The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has mandated that all international airlines provide Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) data starting March 31, 2025. This move aims to enhance border security, combat terrorism, and improve passenger screening, aligning with Somalia’s Immigration Act No. 9 of 1966 and UNSC Resolutions 2178 and 2396. The directive underscores Somalia’s commitment to strengthening aviation security and aligning with global best practices.
AOCs/ASLs.
In a strategic move to enhance Algeria’s domestic air travel, the government has announced the establishment of a new airline exclusively dedicated to domestic flights. The decision, made during a March 12, 2025, government meeting led by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, is part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s air transport sector. The new airline will operate as a subsidiary of Air Algérie, allowing the national flag carrier to focus more on international routes. This restructuring aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance service quality, and optimize connectivity within Algeria, ultimately fostering better regional accessibility and economic growth.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
Tanzania’s aviation sector demonstrated significant growth by the third quarter of 2024, reflecting the country’s expanding economic activities and increasing demand for air travel. International flights increased by 5.3% compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 8,865 flights, while domestic flights rose by 7.1%, totaling 33,767 flights. Passenger volumes also surged, with international travelers reaching 599,494, signaling a strong recovery despite being slightly below the 727,647 passengers recorded in the same period in 2023. Domestic passenger numbers grew to 762,104, up from 714,810 in 2023. Cargo operations also experienced a notable increase, handling 9,632.2 tonnes, up from 7,908 tonnes in the previous year. These improvements can be attributed to airport expansions in Songea, Mpanda, and Iringa, facilitating higher traffic and enabling operators to introduce more domestic routes.
According to Cirium, global flight cancellations decreased by 18% in February 2025, with 41,041 flights canceled compared to 50,110 in January. The Asia-Pacific region accounted for the highest cancellations, with 15,357 flights (37% of global cancellations), followed by North America (33% – 13,587 flights), Europe (20% – 8,261 flights), Latin America (6% – 2,330 flights), and the Middle East & Africa (4% – 1,506 flights). This reduction in cancellations contributed to an overall improvement in airline punctuality and efficiency. Notably, South African low-cost carrier FlySafair emerged as the global leader in On-Time Performance (OTP) with a 95.82% punctuality rate, despite operating in a challenging environment, including shortages of air traffic controllers and limited navigation support at certain airports.
A recent Drone Wars UK report has revealed a disturbing trend in the proliferation of military drones across Africa, leading to widespread civilian casualties. Over the past three years (up to November 2024), at least 50 confirmed drone strikes by various armed forces have resulted in more than 940 civilian deaths and hundreds of injuries. The report highlights a “striking pattern of civilian harm” with little or no accountability, raising concerns over the lack of international regulations governing drone warfare. The continued uncontrolled use of armed drones in conflict zones across Africa has exacerbated security risks and humanitarian crises.
Boeing maintained its recovery trajectory, delivering 44 aircraft in February 2025, matching its January figures and significantly outpacing its performance in early 2024. The company delivered a total of 89 aircraft in the first two months of 2025, compared to just 54 deliveries during the same period in 2024. This growth reflects Boeing’s steady production ramp-up following last year’s challenges, which temporarily slowed output. In February alone, Boeing delivered 32 aircraft from the 737 family, including 31 MAX jets and one older model for Boeing’s defense division. The sustained delivery pace highlights Boeing’s ability to stabilize production and meet growing airline demand worldwide.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Canada has taken a significant step in improving air connectivity with Africa by expanding its Air Transport Agreement with Senegal. This enhanced agreement grants airlines from both countries the right to operate direct flights to any destination within each other’s territories. A key feature of the agreement is the increased flight capacity, allowing up to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for carriers from both nations. The agreement, which takes effect immediately, is expected to facilitate increased business and tourism exchanges. In 2023, Canada-Senegal trade totaled $119.4 million, with $112.3 million in exports and $7.1 million in imports from Senegal.
Nigeria and Jamaica are advancing discussions to establish direct air connectivity under their Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). During a recent meeting in Abuja, Jamaican Ambassador Lincoln Downer and Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasized the need to strengthen aviation ties between the two nations. The initiative aims to enhance diplomatic and economic relations, facilitate trade and tourism, and open up new travel corridors between West Africa and the Caribbean.
On March 15, 2025, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and his Ivorian counterpart, Leon Kacou Adom, held high-level discussions in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. A significant outcome of the meeting was the signing of an aviation cooperation agreement aimed at establishing direct flights between Brazil and Côte d’Ivoire. This initiative is expected to bolster trade, tourism, and diplomatic relations between South America and West Africa.
Nigeria and Namibia have strengthened aviation cooperation following discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Namibian Ambassador to Nigeria. Their dialogue focused on finalizing the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and streamlining visa processes to facilitate smoother travel between the two nations. Air Peace Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading carriers, explored the potential for direct flights between Lagos and Windhoek, which would enhance business and tourism exchanges.
Ghana and Burkina Faso are considering the launch of a direct flight between Accra and Ouagadougou, aiming to improve regional trade, tourism, and economic cooperation. This proposal was a key agenda item during a meeting between Ghana’s President H.E John Dramani Mahama and Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The introduction of this route would strengthen regional integration and cross-border business opportunities between the neighboring West African countries.
On March 9, 2025, Egypt’s Civil Aviation Minister, Sameh El Hefny, met with SITA to explore digital solutions for the aviation sector. Key discussions focused on e-booking systems, AI-driven airport optimization, cybersecurity measures, and advanced baggage tracking to enhance efficiency and passenger experience. This collaboration aligns with Egypt’s digital transformation strategy, reinforcing its position as a leading aviation hub.
Cypriot aircraft leasing company Zela Aviation has partnered with Nigerian airline XEJet Limited to offer ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing solutions. Under this agreement, Zela Aviation will promote the availability of its Embraer E145 aircraft, providing flexible and reliable leasing options for airlines in Nigeria and across Africa.
Uganda Airlines has renewed its partnership with the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) to facilitate Hajj pilgrimage flights to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This marks the third consecutive year of the collaboration, which ensures seamless and dedicated air travel for Ugandan Muslim pilgrims. The agreement was reaffirmed by Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, Deputy Mufti of Uganda, during an Iftar dinner hosted by Uganda Airlines on March 13, 2025, in Kampala.
Fast-growing Nigerian airline, ValueJet, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), becoming the Official Airline Partner for Nigeria’s national football teams. The agreement, signed on March 16, 2025, at the Remo Stars Sports Institute in Ikenne-Remo, will see ValueJet provide transportation for national teams during international matches and championships. The partnership underscores ValueJet’s commitment to supporting Nigerian sports while enhancing its brand visibility.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Kenya Airways (KQ) have entered a strategic partnership to increase North American tourist arrivals by 11% by the end of the financial year. Under the agreement, Kenya Airways will offer a 15% discount on fares from the United States, Canada, and Mexico for bookings made between March 16 and May 16, 2025, for travel before November 30, 2025.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Qatar Airways has expanded its African network, increasing flight frequencies to four key destinations. Durban, South Africa (via Maputo, Mozambique) now enjoys daily flights, up from five per week, while Entebbe’s services have increased from seven to 11 weekly. Dar-es-Salaam/Kilimanjaro, Tanzania sees a jump from three to seven flights per week, and Tunis, Tunisia now has 12 weekly flights, up from 10.
Etihad Airways is also ramping up services to South Africa. Starting March 30, 2025, the Abu Dhabi–Johannesburg route will operate four times weekly on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. From August 1, this will increase to daily flights, catering to growing demand.
Airlink, a premier regional carrier, is launching direct Cape Town–Gaborone flights starting April 1, 2025. The three-weekly service (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) will enhance business and leisure travel between South Africa and Botswana.
AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED is set to launch a direct Dar es Salaam–Kinshasa route from March 26, 2025, with four weekly flights operated by the Airbus A220-300. This move strengthens trade, tourism, and connectivity between Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Precision Air Tanzania is expanding Tanzania’s domestic connectivity by introducing daily flights from Zanzibar to Seronera, effective June 15, 2025. This will make travel between Zanzibar’s beaches and the Serengeti’s wildlife reserves more accessible for tourists.
In contrast, Brussels Airlines is terminating its Luanda, Angola stopover, shifting focus to Kinshasa, DRC. The airline will now operate daily non-stop flights to the DRC’s capital, while travelers to Luanda can continue flying via Lufthansa’s Frankfurt hub.
United Airlines is placing its Newark–Marrakesh service on a six-month hiatus after the final flight on March 27, 2025. The route is scheduled to resume on October 25, 2025, with aircraft redeployed to more profitable European routes during the summer months.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its fleet with the arrival of a 15.6-year-old Boeing 737-800, registered as ET-BBH. The aircraft was ferried from Singapore, making a stop in Dubai before reaching Addis Ababa on March 16, 2025. Previously configured as a VIP (private) aircraft, it is currently unclear whether Ethiopian Airlines has purchased it outright or is operating it under a lease agreement.
In Angola, TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola has reinforced its fleet with a new Airbus Aircraft A220-300, configured with 12 business class and 125 economy seats. This aircraft, registered as D2-TAF, bears a special “50 Years of Angolan Independence” sticker, commemorating the nation’s milestone. It was ferried from Canada, with fuel stops in Dublin, Ireland, and Faro, Spain, between March 14 and 15, 2025.
RwandAir Ltd has secured a wet-leased Airbus A330-200 from Bulgaria’s GULLIVAIR to maintain seamless long-haul operations. The airline’s own A330-200 fleet is undergoing scheduled maintenance, prompting the need for additional capacity. The 22-year-old aircraft, previously operated by Air Caraïbes Atlantique and Aigle Azur, will temporarily serve RwandAir’s long-haul routes, including Paris and Brussels. This move ensures uninterrupted service for passengers while optimizing fleet utilization.
Tanzania Flightlink has also expanded its fleet with the addition of an ATR 72-500, leased from Aergo Capital. The 16.8-year-old aircraft, now registered as 5H-FLD, was ferried from Spain with multiple stops in Senegal, Ghana, Cameroon, and Rwanda, before arriving in Tanzania between March 11 and 14, 2025. The ATR 72-500 enhances Flightlink’s regional operations, particularly in East Africa’s growing aviation market.
Sky Vision Airlines, an Egyptian cargo operator, has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321-200P2F (Passenger-to-Freighter) conversion, completed by Haite Tianjin. The 2002-vintage aircraft, powered by V2500 engines, was previously operated by Red Wings and is leased from Juniper Aviation Investments. It arrived in Cairo (CAI) on March 7, 2025, bringing Sky Vision’s fleet to three Airbus narrowbody freighters.
Similarly, Egyptian carrier Red Sea Airlines has received a Boeing 737-800, leased from Aergo Capital. The 11.8-year-old aircraft, registered as SU-RSD, was ferried from the United States, making stopovers in Canada and France before arriving in Cairo on March 12, 2025. This marks Red Sea Airlines’ second aircraft delivery in 2025, reinforcing its fleet capacity for regional and international flights.
Royal Airways, Chad’s only scheduled carrier, has expanded with the acquisition of an ATR 42-300, which landed in N’Djamena on March 10, 2025. This aircraft, formerly used by the Chadian Presidency, underwent an extensive maintenance program at ATLANTIC AIR INDUSTRIES‘ facility in Benslimane, Morocco, before joining Royal Airways’ existing Embraer ERJ140 fleet. The ATR 42-300’s arrival precedes the expected delivery of a second ERJ140, further solidifying Royal Airways’ fleet expansion strategy.
Avmax Aircraft Leasing Inc., a Canadian leasing firm, has repossessed two aircraft—a Dash 8-300 and an ERJ145—from FLY ANGOLA following a prolonged legal battle over unpaid lease dues exceeding $2.5 million USD. The dispute escalated in 2024, leading to Avmax securing a Canadian court order in March to terminate the leases. The aircraft were repositioned to Nairobi before their final departure to Canada and South Africa in March 2025.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
The Ministry of Natural Resources of Malawi has disclosed that it requires over K200 million to upgrade infrastructure, equipment, and tools for the Department of Climate and Meteorological Services at airports. This department plays a critical role in providing essential weather reports for civil aviation safety. Meanwhile, Mzuzu Airport is undergoing a significant upgrade with a $100,000 investment from Japan, facilitated through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The K1.4 billion rehabilitation project, led by Nasudu Construction Limited, extends the runway from 1.3 km to 1.5 km, improving safety and accessibility for larger commercial flights.
In Nigeria, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has transferred its Navigational Aids Flights Inspection and Surveillance (NAFIS) hangar at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). Other assets ceded include an unserviceable calibration aircraft (HS-125), a ground power generator, a flight calibration laboratory, and various office facilities. The transfer formalizes NAMA’s expanded role in managing aviation navigation infrastructure.
To improve airport efficiency, Chinese bus manufacturer Yutong Bus & Coach is set to supply apron buses to Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. These buses will enhance passenger movement between terminals and aircraft, reducing transit times and optimizing ground operations. This initiative aligns with Tanzania’s broader efforts to modernize its aviation sector and accommodate increasing air travel demand.
Eswatini is constructing a new cargo village, set for completion by the end of 2025, alongside a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center at its main airport. These upgrades will enhance Eswatini’s aviation autonomy and support regional air freight capacity. Since March 2023, Eswatini Air has expanded routes to Johannesburg and Harare, with plans to launch new flights to Bulawayo, Lusaka, and Nampula. Additionally, Eswatini successfully completed an ICAO USAP security audit in February 2025, demonstrating its commitment to compliance and safety.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has introduced new airport equipment, including five Cobus apron buses for passenger transport and ten Flyco bird-deterrent vehicles to reduce bird strikes. Bird strikes have historically caused engine damage and flight disruptions. The Régie des Voies Aériennes (RVA) now directly manages airport transport services, replacing outdated subcontracted fleets.
Malta-based Salvo Grima Group has secured a duty-free concession at Algiers Houari Boumediene International Airport, expanding its presence in North Africa. The group will launch a 2,000 sqm retail space under the “Horizon” brand in partnership with Gebr. Heinemann. Additionally, Salvo Grima will oversee duty-free operations in Oran, supply concessions in Constantine and Sétif, and manage La Goulette’s ferry terminal duty-free in Tunisia.
Ethiopian Airlines has entered a partnership agreement with the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) to develop the $7.8 billion Bishoftu International Airport. The agreement was signed by Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew and AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo. The Ethiopian Ministry of Finance confirmed that the AfDB will provide $1.2 billion in investments to support this mega aviation project, which aims to position Ethiopia as a key aviation hub in Africa.
In an effort to stabilize Kenya Airways (KQ), the Kenyan government has committed up to KES 6.4 billion ($50 million) to compensate creditor banks for potential losses related to equity holdings in KQ. This initiative is part of a 2017 debt restructuring agreement, in which banks converted KES 17 billion in debt into a 38.1% equity stake. The compensation plan ensures financial stability for lenders and supports KQ’s long-term recovery efforts.
Kenya Airways is conducting a strategic reassessment of its investment in Precision Air Tanzania, its Tanzanian subsidiary, to align with long-term objectives. KQ CEO Allan Kilavuka stated that the review will ensure a balance between financial viability and regional connectivity. KQ initially acquired a 49% stake in Precision Air in 2003, investing $2 million. However, after Precision Air’s public listing in 2011, KQ’s shareholding was diluted to 34.2%. The review highlights KQ’s focus on sustainable operations in East Africa’s evolving aviation market.
RwandAir Ltd has launched ‘RwandAir Holidays’, a comprehensive travel booking platform that enables passengers to seamlessly book flights, hotels, and transfers. The platform is powered by HBX Group and Onlinetravel, offering 24/7 customer support and a wide selection of travel services. Integrated into RwandAir’s website, this initiative enhances convenience and accessibility for travelers looking for all-inclusive trip planning.
VISA/Passports.
On March 11, 2025, the Liberian government officially launched its Visa on Arrival system, an initiative led by the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS). This platform, in development since 2024, aims to streamline and modernize the visa issuance process for international travelers arriving by air. Under the new system, foreign travelers must apply for a visa on arrival online through the official LIS portal (visaonarrival.lis.gov.lr) before departure. The visa fee is $102.5 (approx. €95) and must be paid online. However, ECOWAS member state citizens remain exempt from this requirement, in line with the region’s free movement agreements.
The Ghanaian government has announced a 25% reduction in the cost of a 32-page ordinary passport, bringing the price down from $32 to $22. This decision is part of efforts to make passports more affordable while ensuring that security standards remain high. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa assured that the reduction would not impose additional financial burdens on the state. Additionally, the government plans to streamline passport issuance, introducing 24-hour processing and home delivery options to improve accessibility and convenience for Ghanaians.
People/Appointment.
As part of its “Airports 2030” strategy, Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has announced key leadership changes at two major airports. ONDA Director General Adel El Fakir has appointed Othmane Hassani as the new director of Nador El Aroui Airport and El Mokhtar Dahraoui as the director of Agadir Al Massira Airport. Both executives bring extensive experience in air navigation and airport infrastructure management, aligning with ONDA’s vision to enhance operational efficiency and support passenger growth. In 2024, Nador El Aroui Airport welcomed over 1.05 million passengers, marking a 3% increase from 2023 when it first surpassed the one-million-passenger milestone. Meanwhile, Agadir Al Massira Airport saw 3.1 million passengers, reflecting a remarkable 36% growth compared to the previous year.
Ghana’s aviation industry is mourning the loss of Captain Alec Grant Sam (Rtd), the first pilot to fly Ghana Airways’ DC-10 from London to Ghana. The former Managing Director of Ghana Airways passed away at the age of 94 on March 8, 2025, at his residence in Teshie-Nungua Estates, Accra. Captain Sam was one of the four pioneer pilots of Ghana Airways, beginning his distinguished career in 1958 and serving for over 35 years. His leadership and contributions played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s national airline.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
At the PATWA (Pacific Area Travel Writers Association) Awards held during the ITB-TourismTrade Fair in Berlin, Dr. Alain St.Ange, a Seychelles-based tourism consultant and Presidential Candidate for the September 2025 elections, received the prestigious Gold Award for “Lifetime Achievement in Tourism”. St. Ange was the sole recipient of this distinguished honor, recognizing his decades of dedication to the global tourism industry.
Air Seychelles also made headlines, winning the Indian Ocean Region Airline of the Year Award. The airline was represented in Berlin by Chief Commercial Officer Charles Johnson. Additionally, Air Seychelles CEO Sandy Benoiton was honored with the PATWA Gold Award for Excellence in Aviation Leadership in the Indian Ocean Region, further highlighting the airline’s strong performance and leadership in the region.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has been awarded the ATQ Star Leadership Award in recognition of his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s aviation industry. The award, presented by ATQ Magazine, acknowledges his efforts in driving sectoral growth, enhancing safety standards, and attracting increased investment into the country’s aviation sector.
In other news:
On March 6, 2025, Cabo Verde’s Civil Aviation Agency (AAC) introduced Regulation No. 01/AAC/2025, replacing outdated airfare rules to enhance pricing transparency and passenger rights. The new regulation mandates airlines to display a single, all-inclusive ticket price, covering fares, taxes, and all additional fees, eliminating hidden charges and unclear pricing structures. Additionally, airlines must now collect detailed passenger data for direct communication and ensure comprehensive ticketing details to avoid misleading advertising. The regulation also prohibits separate charges for essential services, enforces truthful advertising, and introduces penalties for non-compliance. This nationwide reform, which took effect on March 7, 2025, applies to both national and international carriers operating from Cabo Verde, marking a significant step toward a fairer and more transparent air travel experience.
Green Africa has introduced gChat, a customer service chatbot designed to offer seamless self-service options and direct access to the airline’s gCare specialists for personalized assistance. As Nigeria’s first AI-powered airline chatbot, gChat represents Green Africa’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and provide efficient, 24/7 support. Now available on greenafrica.com, gChat allows passengers to book flights, check flight statuses, make inquiries, and receive instant support without the need for human intervention.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially appointed four airlines to transport over 71,000 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. The selected carriers include Max Air Ltd, flynas, Umza Aviation Services Ltd, and Air Peace Limited, with each airline assigned a specific number of pilgrims. Max Air will transport 23,343 pilgrims, while Saudi Arabia’s Flynas is responsible for 22,893 pilgrims. UMZA Aviation Services Limited has been allocated 15,893 pilgrims, and Air Peace will airlift 9,145 pilgrims. These allocations were formalized during the 2025 Hajj airlift charter contract signing between NAHCON and the respective airlines, ensuring a well-coordinated and efficient transportation process.
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has extended its commitment to social responsibility by donating essential supplies and limited-edition, handcrafted backpacks from its ‘Aircrafted KIDS by Emirates’ collection to two non-profit organizations in Ethiopia. The beneficiaries, Roots Ethiopia and Brave Hearts Ethiopia, are dedicated to providing educational opportunities and support for financially disadvantaged children, fostering a nurturing environment for their academic growth. Through this initiative, Emirates aims to enhance the learning experience of students by providing high-quality backpacks and essential stationery supplies, ensuring they are well-equipped for their education.
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