(Posted 13th May 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech
Introduction.
On May 8, 2025, Rabat, Morocco, hosted the 72nd Session of the ACAO Arab Civil Aviation Organization Executive Council and an Extraordinary General Assembly, convening aviation leaders from across the Arab world. Chaired by Saudi GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, the council advanced initiatives in smart airspace management, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability. Tunisia and Yemen were elected to the expanded 11-member council. The General Assembly focused on the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization Council elections, endorsing Saudi Arabia and Egypt for Category II, and the UAE and Tunisia for Category III seats—highlighting the region’s push for stronger global representation.
On the same day, Kenya formally requested permission from Ghana to allow Kenya Airways to establish a secondary hub in Accra. Presented by Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir during an official visit to Accra, the proposal aims to boost intra-African and global connectivity, aligning with SAATM and AfCFTA goals to deepen regional integration and drive economic growth.
ECOWAS Commission announced plans to cut passenger service and security charges on regional flights by 25% from January 1, 2026. Targeting West Africa’s sky-high airfares caused by 66 passenger and 112 airline taxes, the reforms aim to eliminate non-ICAO-compliant levies, modernize airport operations, and push airlines to lower fares. An oversight committee will be formed by June 2025. If implemented, ECOWAS projects a 40% increase in demand and $500 million in additional revenue, pending approval from heads of state and national fiscal reforms.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
Global business aircraft flight activity rose 3.2% year-over-year (YOY) in April, despite a 6.5% decline in European traffic. North America saw a 2.4% increase, while the rest of the world saw a significant 17% jump. Argus analysts project a slight 0.2% YOY increase in North America and a 3.8% decrease in Europe for the coming month. In North America, all aircraft categories showed growth, led by large-cabin jets (+3.2%), with fractional operators leading the way (+9.4%). In Europe, only midsize jets saw an increase (+1.9%). The rest of the world saw strong growth in turboprops (+24.4%) and light jets (+17%).
According to the 2025 Economic Survey released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Kenyan airports experienced a 5% increase in passenger traffic in 2024, with the total number of passengers rising from 12,205,800 in 2023 to 12,831,700. International passenger numbers grew by 9.6%, reaching 7,282,600, —fueled by new routes and resumed services from Brussels Airlines, Etihad Airways, and AirAsia X. The rise in passenger numbers was also supported by a 15% increase in inbound tourists, with tourism receipts growing from KSh 377.49 billion in 2023 to KSh 452.20 billion in 2024. However, cargo throughput at airports declined slightly from 379,500,600 tonnes in 2023 to 372,993,000 tonnes in 2024, although the share of exports in total throughput increased marginally from 82.9% to 83.1%.
TUNISAIR has reported strong growth in passenger traffic, with a 6% increase projected for the period from October 2024 to March 2025, reaching 1,185,890 passengers. The airline’s load factor rose sharply to 75.1%, up from 69.8% the previous year. Notably, Europe, particularly the French market, saw a 14% increase in passengers, accounting for 46% of the total traffic, while Sub-Saharan Africa and Canada saw modest growth. In the 4th quarter of 2024, passenger traffic increased by 16%, with passenger revenue rising by 12%. This positive trend continued in April 2025, with a 4% increase in passengers and a 7-point rise in load factor to 80%. Fuel costs decreased by 19%, and Tunisair’s debt fell by 18%, while its cash position improved by 11%.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
The United Arab Emirates and Egypt have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in space activities for peaceful purposes, marking a significant milestone in regional space collaboration. The agreement, signed between the UAE Space Agency and the EgSA-Egyptian Space Agency, was formalised on the sidelines of the NewSpace Africa Conference and the 11th Meeting of the Arab Space Cooperation Group, held in Cairo.
On May 7, 2025, Nigeria and Brazil agreed to revise their Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) to enable the immediate start of direct flights between the two countries. The development followed a high-level visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who met with his Brazilian counterpart, Silvio Costa Filho, as part of efforts to deepen bilateral ties under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The Nigerian delegation also visited Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos to explore collaboration on modern aircraft access, improved leasing terms, and financing partnerships.
On May 7, 2025, Moroccan Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, met with Saudi Arabian Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, in Rabat to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in road, maritime, air transport, and logistics. They explored developing air and maritime connectivity, fostering collaboration between national transport companies, and sharing expertise in digitalization, road safety, and infrastructure modernization. The ministers agreed to establish a Joint Committee to implement these initiatives and develop a shared roadmap for future projects.
Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire signed a military cooperation agreement on May 9, 2025, to enhance bilateral ties. The agreement, signed in Rabat by Morocco‘s Minister of Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, and Côte d’Ivoire‘s Minister of Defense, Téné Birahima Ouattara, focuses on areas like training, education, military health services, technical assistance, and the exchange of expertise.
On May 8, 2025, the Director-General of Kuwait‘s Civil Aviation Authority, Sheikh Humoud Jaber Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, met with Morocco‘s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohamed Abdeljalil, in Rabat to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in aviation and transport sectors. The discussions focused on deepening the strategic partnership between the two nations, with an emphasis on developing human resources, facilitating the exchange of training programs, and strengthening air safety measures.
On May 9, 2025, Tanzania and Mozambique formalized an agreement to enhance air transport services between their major cities through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Tanzania’s AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED (ATCL) and Mozambique’s LAM-Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique. This collaboration aims to improve connectivity, streamline operations, and strengthen bilateral relations in the aviation sector, facilitating smoother travel and trade links. While specific details on the routes, frequencies, and timelines are yet to be disclosed, the partnership is expected to boost tourism, business exchanges, and regional integration.
Air Seychelles has signed an agreement with Airbus to adopt its Flight Hour Services – Fleet Technical Management (FTM) solution, aiming to boost the operational efficiency of its A320neo fleet. Under the deal, Airbus will assist the carrier with Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) functions. This includes engineering support for the airline’s maintenance control centre, as well as proactive measures to enhance fleet reliability and lower maintenance costs – all while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance.
On May 8, 2025, the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO) signed new ground handling contracts with five airlines. The new agreements include a five-year contract with Royal Air Maroc for cargo freighter and warehousing services in Lagos and Abuja, complementing an existing handling contract. NAHCO also renewed its long-standing partnership with Kenya Airways for passenger and cargo operations across Nigeria. Additionally, NAHCO signed a three-year contract with @Dornier Aviation for passenger handling at various airports, a five-year agreement with new domestic carrier Enugu Air, and a three-year renewal with Cronos Airline for passenger flight handling in Lagos and Port Harcourt.
fastjet Zimbabwe has appointed Air Promotion Group (APG) Zambia as its official General Sales Agent (GSA) for the Zambian market, effective immediately. This strategic move follows the recent launch of direct flights between Harare and Lusaka and is aimed at enhancing the airline’s regional footprint and customer service across key Southern African routes. As GSA, APG Zambia will be responsible for promoting and selling Fastjet flights, handling customer enquiries, and providing trade support throughout the country.
Zambia Airways 2014 has appointed AVIAREPS Group as its General Sales and Service Agent in South Africa. Effective immediately, Aviareps will handle the airline’s commercial sales, promotions, marketing, public relations, and ticket sales in the region. Marcelo Kaiser, COO of Aviation at Aviareps, expressed pride in expanding the company’s portfolio in Africa and representing Zambia Airways in South Africa. The partnership aims to strengthen the airline’s brand awareness and boost sales in the South African market.
Ethiopian Airlines has entered into an agreement with Panasonic Avionics Corporation to outfit its forthcoming Boeing 777X fleet with the Astrova in-flight entertainment system. This advanced IFE technology, provided by Panasonic Avionics, will offer passengers an enhanced, immersive onboard experience. The new Boeing 777X aircraft are scheduled to enter service in 2028, marking a significant step in Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy to modernize its fleet and elevate customer service.
On May 8, 2025, AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly met with Captain Ahmed Adel, Chairman of EGYPTAIR, to explore collaboration opportunities, focusing on enhancing EgyptAir’s fleet competitiveness. AerCap currently finances 28 aircraft in EgyptAir’s fleet, including Boeing B777-300ERs, Airbus Aircraft A320/321neos, and Boeing B787-9s. The discussions centered on global aviation trends, aircraft leasing, and EgyptAir’s fleet modernization with fuel-efficient, advanced models. Both leaders emphasized the strategic partnership, with nearly 40% of EgyptAir’s fleet under AerCap leasing, supporting operational efficiency, sustainability, and improved customer experience.
EGYPTAIR and Visa Inc. have signed an exclusive partnership agreement to enhance the customer experience in the Egyptian aviation sector. The collaboration will provide advanced technological solutions to support EgyptAir’s growth and expansion. A key component of the agreement is the launch of a premium co-branded payment card offering customers exclusive travel rewards, miles, and benefits. The partnership aims to improve customer loyalty, satisfaction, and digital transformation, while supporting Egypt’s Vision 2030.
On May 7, 2025, Ghana’s Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) met with the National Ambulance Service in Accra to strengthen collaboration on emergency response for aviation incidents. Acting AIB Commissioner John M. K. Wumborti emphasized the need for coordinated preparedness, while National Ambulance CEO Professor Ahmed Zakariah called for the urgent establishment of an air ambulance system to support growing domestic air travel. Both agencies committed to joint training, simulations, and continuous emergency coverage to improve aviation safety and response nationwide.
Kenya Airways has partnered with Ol Pejeta Conservancy to support its 20th-anniversary celebrations, known as OPC@20. As part of this collaboration, Kenya Airways will assist in a Silent Digital Auction scheduled for September 2025, with all proceeds benefiting Ol Pejeta’s conservation programs. The airline is contributing two sets of return tickets to international destinations—New York (JFK), London Gatwick, or London Heathrow—to enhance the auction’s offerings. Additionally, Kenya Airways will sponsor the OPC@20 Golf Tournament on May 31, 2025, by providing a set of domestic return tickets (Nairobi-Mombasa) and one international ticket (Nairobi-London Gatwick). The airline will also offer discounted tickets to Ol Pejeta staff traveling via its services.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
On May 4, 2025, Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) welcomed the inaugural Air Cairo flight from Cairo, marking the launch of a direct route between the two capitals. The flight, carrying 150 passengers, underscores efforts to boost tourism, trade, and economic ties between Jordan and Egypt. Operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Fridays, the new service aligns with Air Cairo’s broader network expansion strategy.
Somon Air LLC has launched a new weekly direct flight connecting Dushanbe, Tajikistan, with Egypt’s Red Sea resort city, Sharm El-Sheikh. Operated in partnership with ANTARES LLC (FLY.TJ), the route uses Boeing 737-800/900 aircraft and departs Sundays at 06:40 AM local time, arriving at 09:20 AM EEST. Return flights leave at 10:40 AM EEST. The service aims to promote tourism and business between the two nations.
Delta Air Lines will launch a new seasonal daily nonstop service between Accra, Ghana, and Atlanta, USA, starting December 1, 2025. The route, operated with an Airbus A330-900neo, will offer improved travel options for Ghanaians by reducing layovers and enhancing convenience. This will be Delta’s second direct flight between Ghana and the U.S., reflecting its commitment to the Ghanaian market. Atlanta, Delta’s largest hub, provides connections to over 215 U.S. destinations.
Qantas will reintroduce direct flights between Johannesburg and Perth starting December 7, 2025. Operating three times weekly with Airbus A330s (27 business suites and 224 economy seats), the route facilitates faster access to Western Australia and onward travel to major cities across Australia and New Zealand. The relaunch follows infrastructure upgrades at Perth Airport backed by federal funding.
TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola is expanding its African operations starting May 1, targeting key regional hubs to strengthen connectivity with Brazil. The airline will increase frequencies to Cape Town (10 weekly flights), Johannesburg (9 weekly flights), and Maputo (5 weekly flights starting June 1), while also adjusting departure times for Kinshasa and Brazzaville routes to 22:00 (Luanda local time), operating three times weekly. This strategic move aims to position Luanda as a central hub linking South America and Africa, enhancing passenger convenience and offering seamless connections to Brazilian cities. The expanded schedule responds to growing demand on the Brazil-Africa corridor and supports the development of tourism, trade, and diplomatic ties between the two regions.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Air Botswana has added a 50-seat Embraer E145 jet (V5-ABQ) to its fleet through a lease agreement with Westair Aviation. The 17.5-year-old aircraft touched down at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport with Botswana’s High Commissioner to Namibia as its inaugural passenger. The jet will operate short-to-medium-haul regional routes, supporting the airline’s efforts to enhance connectivity and service quality. CEO Rasebotsa Lulu emphasized the aircraft’s efficiency, reliability, and capability to operate from shorter runways—key to Botswana’s broader goals of boosting tourism and economic diversification.
Separately, Air Botswana has extended the tender deadline for the sale of its last ATR 42-500 (A2-ABN, MSN 507) to May 7, 2025, at 14:00 local time. The 47-seat aircraft, built in 1996 and stored since 2019 at Gaborone, is being sold “as is, where is” along with associated inventory under Tender Reference No. AB/283/2025. Interested bidders may inspect the aircraft by request and submit offers electronically or via physical delivery to Air Botswana’s head office.
Kenyan domestic carrier Renegade Air has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of its first ATR 42-500. The aircraft (5Y-RNV, MSN 637) was delivered on May 8, 2025, following a ferry flight from Mönchengladbach, Germany, with stops in Greece and Saudi Arabia. Formerly registered as F-HAIB with Air Corsica and later 2-HAIB, the 20-year-old turboprop was leased from Abelo Capital Aviation. Powered by PW100 engines, the ATR is expected to improve domestic capacity and operational flexibility from the airline’s base at Nairobi Wilson Airport.
LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES has temporarily integrated a Boeing 737-500 into its fleet to alleviate strain from recent flight cancellations. The 134-seat aircraft, which began operations on May 6, 2025, increases the airline’s active fleet to four: one CRJ 900, two Embraer 145s, and the new 737. This follows the April 24 withdrawal of two CemAir-operated CRJ 900s. The airline is facing ongoing operational and financial challenges, including a government-initiated probe into suspected corruption in ticketing. LAM is actively rescheduling flights, seeking interim fleet solutions, and preparing for future aircraft acquisitions.
RwandAir Ltd has returned the wet-leased Airbus A330-200 (LZ-TWO) to Bulgarian lessor GULLIVAIR, ending a short-term arrangement that started in March 2025. The aircraft was brought in to cover long-haul operations while the airline’s two A330-200s underwent maintenance in the UK and Spain. With both aircraft still grounded, RwandAir is currently relying on a single A330-300 for its intercontinental routes, resulting in an estimated 7.9% weekly seat capacity reduction to key destinations. The airline is urgently seeking a replacement widebody through aircraft lessors and brokers.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
On May 8, 2025, the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced the successful installation and commissioning of new Doppler VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range (DVOR) and co-located Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) at Banjul International Airport by UK-based Systems Interface Ltd. Awarded through an international tender, the project included a site survey, system design, equipment installation, decommissioning of old systems, and final flight calibration. These navigation systems provide precise bearing and distance data to aircraft, enhancing safety during approaches to Banjul.
Earlier, on May 6, 2025, The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure (MOTWI) and the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), issued a Request for Proposals (RFP), inviting bids for the design, construction, financing, operation, maintenance, and transfer of a new terminal and related ancillary facilities at Banjul International Airport. This public-private partnership (PPP) initiative aims to address increasing air traffic demand, alleviate congestion in existing facilities, and upgrade infrastructure to meet international safety and security standards. Interested bidders are required to submit their proposals by June 27, 2025, at 12:30 PM GMT.
On May 8, 2025, the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) and the Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZ) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to establish Liberia’s first Airport Special Economic Zones (ASEZ) at Roberts International Airport (RIA) in Margibi County. This initiative, part of the government’s infrastructure-led development strategy, aims to transform RIA into a modern economic hub focused on light manufacturing, logistics, and commercial activity. The ASEZ is expected to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), create jobs, and enhance Liberia’s trade and regional competitiveness.
The Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) is finalizing a comprehensive Five-Year Strategic Aviation Master Plan, expected to be officially submitted in the coming weeks of May 2025, aimed at revitalizing the country’s aviation sector by improving infrastructure, enhancing safety oversight, and aligning with international standards. Announced during Aviation Awareness Week, which began on May 6, 2025, LCAA Director General Julius Dennis highlighted the urgency of the plan, especially in light of Liberia’s low 27.5% score in the 2022 ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP)—significantly below the required minimum of 75%.
On May 9, 2025, a Turkish Civil Aviation security delegation visited Misrata Airport in Libya to carry out a comprehensive inspection aimed at evaluating the airport’s security and operational readiness for the resumption of direct flights between Libya and Turkey. The delegation, which included aviation security and technical experts, reviewed various security measures including passenger screening procedures, baggage handling systems, access control to restricted areas, and overall terminal safety compliance with international civil aviation standards. During the inspection, the Turkish team worked closely with officials from the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority, Misrata Airport management, and local security forces to identify areas requiring improvement and ensure alignment with ICAO and Turkish aviation regulations.
The National Airports Authority (ONDA) has awarded STAM, a subsidiary of the TGCC group, a MAD 294 million ($29.4 million) contract for earthworks at Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport, as part of its new terminal zone development. STAM outbid SGTM, which proposed MAD 334 million ($33.4 million). Earthworks are set to begin in June 2025, with terminal construction scheduled for late 2025. This project is part of Morocco’s broader “Airports 2030” strategy, with a total investment of MAD 15 billion ($1.5 billion).
The Namibian government has earmarked N$28.8 million in its 2025/26 budget for feasibility studies focused on expanding and modernizing key airport infrastructure to meet rising passenger demand and support emerging sectors such as green hydrogen. The studies will primarily assess the potential for a second terminal at Hosea Kutako International Airport, alongside upgrades at Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Lüderitz, and Walvis Bay airports. An additional N$15 million is allocated to hire an aviation expert and conduct a feasibility study on launching a new national airline. This forms part of broader efforts to revive Air Namibia, with a market study due by June 2025, a PPP expression of interest targeted for August 2026, and a potential airline launch between June and December 2026.
On May 10, 2025, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) inaugurated a new domestic cargo terminal at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos as part of efforts to modernize the country’s aviation logistics. The initiative, led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and overseen by the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services under Lekan Thomas, aims to boost export activities and strengthen Nigeria‘s cargo infrastructure. The facility, commissioned by FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi (Bunmi) K., is designed to improve cargo handling efficiency, scalability, and connectivity.
Between 2025/26 and 2027/28, Rwanda plans to invest approximately Rwf699.4 billion in the construction of Bugesera International Airport and the expansion of RwandAir Ltd, as outlined in the national Budget Framework Paper. The $2 billion Bugesera airport is expected to become operational by 2028. On May 8, 2025, Finance Minister Yusuf Murangwa presented a proposed national budget of over Rwf7 trillion for 2025/26—21% higher than the previous year—largely driven by these strategic infrastructure projects. To finance this, Rwanda will borrow about Rwf2.15 trillion, with the second phase of the airport and RwandAir’s expansion (in partnership with Qatar Investment Authority, where Rwanda holds 40% equity in the airport and 59% in the airline) being the main drivers. While this raises medium-term debt indicators, the government maintains debt sustainability will be preserved through new tax measures, concessional loans, and risk mitigation strategies.
The Zambezi Helicopter Company (ZHC), a subsidiary of Shearwater Adventures, has invested over US$2 million in a new aviation facility in Victoria Falls to support Zimbabwe’s ambition of growing its tourism sector to US$5 billion. Located in the Chinotimba Industrial Area, the state-of-the-art complex—set to officially open in May 2025—features helipads, a restaurant, VIP lounge, pilot training programs, maintenance services, and administrative offices. The relocation from its former base near the Elephant Hills Hotel was driven by increased demand and the need for operational expansion.
Kenyan President has officially launched the construction of Narok International Airport on May 6, 2025, during a groundbreaking ceremony in Narok County. The project, estimated at KSh1.4 billion (approximately $10.5 million), is a joint initiative between the national and county governments, each contributing KSh700 million. The airport is slated for completion in March 2026, aiming to enhance access to the Maasai Mara, a premier global tourist destination. Located about 12 kilometers from Narok Town and 79 kilometers from the Maasai Mara’s Sekenani Gate, the facility will occupy 133 hectares. The first phase involves upgrading the existing murram airstrip into a 1.5-kilometer asphalt runway, with plans to extend it to 1.8 kilometers.
The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) has achieved a major financial milestone, generating 2.13 billion birr (approximately $15.8 million) in revenue during the first nine months of the 2024/2025 fiscal year—nearly triple its initial forecast and almost 1 billion birr more than the previous year. This remarkable growth is attributed to the expansion of international air service agreements through proactive diplomatic efforts, improved air navigation services, and the implementation of a centralized revenue collection system. Additionally, ongoing infrastructure projects and increased foreign currency inflows have reinforced Ethiopia’s upward trajectory in aviation, positioning the country as a rising hub in Africa’s air transport sector.
VISA/Passports.
On May 5, 2025, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly reviewed ongoing reforms aimed at boosting tourism, with the goal of welcoming 30 million visitors annually by 2028. A key initiative is the introduction of an emergency electronic visa, available upon arrival at Cairo International Airport . and expanding to other airports. The new system simplifies the visa process with automated kiosks, an online platform, or a mobile app for travelers who didn’t secure a visa in advance. Additionally, the 96-hour free transit visa program has been extended until April 2026. These changes align with Egypt’s Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2030 and aim to enhance the visitor experience, contributing to record-breaking tourist arrivals.
In 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Ghana processed 61,000 visa applications and approved 25,000, resulting in a 41% approval rate. The embassy spent approximately $10 million on consular operations during that year. This information was disclosed by the embassy’s Consular Chief during a recent press briefing. The embassy had also announced plans to introduce a new visa application system from August 2024 to enhance service efficiency. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the transition to avoid disruptions.
Morocco opened an honorary consulate in Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil, on May 7, 2025, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between Morocco and Brazil. The consulate aims to enhance relations with Santa Catarina, a region renowned for its strengths in technology, innovation, logistics, industry, and tourism.The inauguration was attended by key figures, including Morocco’s Ambassador to Brazil, Nabil Adghoghi, Vice-Governor Marilisa Boehm, and Mayor Topázio Neto. Newly appointed Honorary Consul, Wilfredo Gomes, expressed gratitude and commitment to promoting Morocco’s interests in the region.
The UK government is expected to introduce measures targeting countries like Nigeria, where there is a higher likelihood of overstaying visas or claiming asylum, as part of its upcoming immigration white paper. These measures are aimed at reducing net migration, with a focus on tightening visa controls for international students and graduates, requiring them to secure graduate-level jobs based on skill rather than salary to remain in the UK. This comes after a sharp decrease in net migration, and it is expected that the new policies will create a trade-off between economic growth and immigration priorities. While stakeholders, including those in the education sector, have raised concerns about the impact of these restrictions, the government is determined to address abuses in the immigration system, including the use of asylum claims as a backdoor to staying in the UK.
People/Appointment.
On May 6, 2025, the Angolan government appointed the boards of two newly established entities—Airport Temporary Operator & Operational Consulting SA (ATO & OC) and Icolo e Bengo – Urbe SA (ICB-URBE)—to manage and develop Luanda’s Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN). ATO & OC, led by President António de Jesus Marcolino Pombal, is tasked with overseeing the airport’s technical and operational support. ICB-URBE, under President José Paulo de Oliveira e Silva Pinto da Nóbrega, focuses on economic and social development initiatives, including the establishment of a logistics hub and a future airport city in the Icolo e Bengo region. These appointments mark a significant step in modernizing Angola’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing its role as a regional air transport hub.
Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, the Spokesman and Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace Limited, officially resigned in May 2025, marking the end of a transformative tenure at Nigeria’s largest airline. While the exact details of his next move remain undisclosed, industry sources suggest he is joining a high-profile organization in a more senior role. With over 20 years of cross-sector experience, Dr. Ndiulo has held key roles at institutions such as ThisDay, BBC, Fidelity Bank, and Optiva Capital, and earned multiple awards for journalism. He holds a PhD in Strategic Marketing Management (2024) from Babcock University, among other academic and professional qualifications.
On May 10, 2025, DHL Express employees in Addis Ababa and Hawassa went on strike after the company failed to meet their wage adjustment demands. The workers, represented by union chairman Tilahun Tadesse, initially requested a 120% salary increase, later reducing their demand to 50% after the company offered only a 20–24% raise. They also sought to have their salaries paid in Ethiopian Birr at the actual exchange rate, reflecting the company’s revenue in euros and dollars. Despite working long hours, many employees struggle to support their families. The union launched a three-day strike under Ethiopian labor law, warning of further action if negotiations fail. DHL Express responded by reaffirming its commitment to a fair Collective Bargaining Agreement and employee welfare.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
In Q1 2025, Skyway Aviation handling company Plc (SAHCO) Plc received the British Airways Safety and Punctuality Bronze Awards for both its Lagos and Abuja stations, recognizing its 96% Adjusted Departure Closure (ADC) punctuality and high safety standards across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific region. British Airways commended SAHCO’s professionalism, while the company highlighted its commitment to eco-friendly, world-class service. Additionally, at the 2025 Nigeria Safety & Security (NSAS) Awards, SAHCO and its Assistant General Manager for Safety and Quality Assurance, Mrs Christy Oseghale, received special safety honors, further affirming SAHCO’s industry leadership in operational safety and compliance.
Lawsuits.
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has regained control of over 16 acres of prime land near Kotoka International Airport (KIA) from the McDan Group of Companies following a High Court ruling on May 6, 2025. The land, previously leased to McDan Shipping Company and Airport Logistics Limited since 2012, was repossessed due to breaches of land lease agreements and unpaid ground rents. GACL had sought to recover $26,296 in ground rent arrears and requested an injunction to prevent further interference with the land. The court ruled in favor of GACL, granting all reliefs and ordering McDan to pay GH¢50,000 in legal costs. The McDan Group has filed for a stay of execution pending an appeal. The land dispute followed the suspension of McDan Aviation’s operations at KIA in December 2024 due to debt issues.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On May 5, 2025, Sudan‘s Port Sudan New International Airport sustained significant damage due to drone strikes attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a notable escalation in the ongoing civil conflict. The attacks targeted both military and civilian infrastructure, including fuel depots and aircraft on the ground. Notably, a Kush Aviation Ilyushin Il-76TD (registration ST-DIL) was destroyed, and a Badr Airlines Boeing 737-500 (registration C5-BDV) suffered substantial structural damage to its wings and fuselage . These strikes disrupted airport operations, leading to the suspension of all flights and raising concerns over the safety of Sudan’s primary international gateway. The RSF’s use of drones in this context underscores the increasing complexity and reach of the conflict, with attacks extending to previously secure regions. The international community has expressed alarm over the targeting of civilian infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need for de-escalation and protection of non-combatants.
On May 4, 2025, Brussels Airlines flight SN455, operated by an Airbus A330-300 (registration OO-SFE), encountered a hailstorm while cruising at FL370 approximately 130 nautical miles northwest of Entebbe, Uganda. The hail caused the left-hand windshield to crack, prompting the crew to divert the aircraft to Entebbe International Airport. The aircraft landed safely on runway 35 about 55 minutes later, with no injuries reported among passengers or crew. As of May 6, the aircraft remained grounded in Entebbe for inspection and repairs.
In other news:
On May 7, 2025, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) sanctioned Kenya Airways for multiple consumer protection violations involving three passengers. The infractions included failure to provide adequate assistance and care to passengers during disruptions, lack of transparency regarding the airline’s policies, non-compliance with NCAA’s requests for information, delays or refusal to issue refunds and compensations, and mishandling of baggage without proper resolution. As part of the sanctions, Kenya Airways was fined in accordance with NCAA Regulations 2023 and instructed to compensate each affected passenger with 1,000 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). The airline was given a seven-day deadline to comply with these directives, with a warning that failure to do so would result in more severe penalties.
South African Airways (SAA) has confirmed that it has recovered its digital systems after a significant cyber incident disrupted its website, mobile app services, and internal operations starting on May 3. The airline ensured that core flight schedules and customer service channels, including contact centers and sales offices, remained operational due to swift disaster management protocols. While the nature of the cyberattack was not specified, experts linked it to rising ransomware threats in South Africa. A forensic investigation is ongoing, and mandatory reports have been submitted to relevant authorities. SAA has not confirmed if any customer or employee data was compromised but assured that affected individuals would be notified if personal information was involved
BESTFLY has withdrawn from the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA), citing a misalignment of values. Co-founder Alcinda Pereira also resigned as AfBAA chair on May 1, citing challenges and industry prejudice and sexism. In response, AfBAA thanked Pereira, appointed vice chair Craig Middleton as interim chair, and pledged a thorough investigation. The association reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusion, and ethical governance. Founded in 2012, AfBAA promotes business aviation as a driver of Africa’s economic growth.
Royal Air Maroc, Morocco‘s national carrier, will begin operations at The New Terminal One at New York’s JFK Airport in 2026, as part of its U.S. growth strategy. This move aligns with the airline’s goal to strengthen transatlantic ties between Africa and the Americas while enhancing the passenger experience. The new terminal is part of the Port Authority’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport, which will include two new terminals and modernized infrastructure. The partnership with The New Terminal One is a significant milestone for Royal Air Maroc, which currently operates out of Terminal 1 at JFK. In 2026, the airline will relocate to the new terminal, providing an upgraded experience for passengers, including cutting-edge technology and luxury retail and dining options.
The Ghanaian government has formed a 10-member task force to revive the national airline, tasked with developing a business model, coordinating with strategic and technical partners, ensuring regulatory compliance, and overseeing staffing, fleet acquisition, and route planning. This initiative follows the collapse of Ghana Airways and the failure of Ashanti Airlines Limited to meet key deadlines in 2017. The task force is chaired by Charles Asare, with other members including aviation experts and government officials. The government aims to position Ghana as the aviation hub of West Africa, supporting tourism, national pride, and creating job opportunities.
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