(Posted 15th January 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech
Introduction.
The Somaliland government is moving forward with plans to reclaim control over its airspace, a significant development that could escalate tensions with Somalia. The airspace, currently managed by the Somali government, was previously under international oversight before being transferred several years ago. Fuad Ahmed Nuuh, Somaliland’s Minister of Aviation and Airport Development, has confirmed that restoring control over the airspace is a top priority for the government. The decision comes amid a protracted dispute with Somalia regarding airspace management, which has persisted for years.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) has revealed a remarkable growth in domestic air travel within Rwanda. RwandAir Ltd, the country’s national carrier, saw domestic passengers increase from 5,922 in 2020 to 22,547 in 2023, reflecting a staggering 280% growth. The sole domestic route, connecting Kigali to Kamembe in Rusizi District, utilizes a Bombardier Q-400 NextGen aircraft. While the pandemic caused passenger numbers to dip significantly in 2020, the steady recovery from 11,016 passengers in 2021 has been impressive.
In Tunisia, air passenger traffic reached an all-time high in 2024, with 9,646,949 passengers transiting through Tunisian airports, up 9.4% from 2023. Tunis-Carthage International Airport led the way with 7.25 million passengers (+8.8%), while Djerba-Zarzis International Airport posted a +12.8% (with 2,203,957 pax) increase. Notably, Tozeur-Nafta Airport achieved a 76.5% (2 679 passengers) rise in passenger numbers. Aircraft movements rose by 4.9% (79,155) with overflights surging by 14.7% (61,617), reflecting Tunisia’s growing prominence in regional air traffic.
Cabo Verde Airlines (TACV) reported strong operational results in 2024, transporting 118,192 international passengers across 1,068 flights—a 77% increase from 2023 (692 flights and 66,498 passengers). Domestically, 256,697 passengers were carried on 4,654 flights, with São Vicente to Praia being the busiest route (611 flights and 43,566 passengers). The airline’s international flight occupancy rate also improved to 70%, up from 60% in 2023, with Lisbon, Portugal and Paris, France emerging as key routes.
Cairo International Airport set a record on January 2, 2025, handling 97,000 passengers in one day (47,700 arrivals and 49,300 departures) across 667 flights. In 2024, the airport accommodated 28.8 million passengers, up from 26.5 million in 2023. EGYPTAIR also posted growth, transporting 10.289 million passengers in 2024, a rise from 9.826 million in 2023, with operational hours increasing by 9% (from 227,167 hours in 2023 to 246,979 hours in 2024).
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) recorded a notable increase in international arrivals at Freetown International Airport, with incoming passenger numbers rising from 119,005 in 2023 to 127,177 in 2024.
In Ghana, state-owned GOIL PLC fueled aircraft at Kotoka International Airport 8,687 times in 2024, showcasing its vital role in supporting aviation operations at the country’s busiest airport.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
The Republic of Djibouti and the Sultanate of Oman have taken a major step forward in their bilateral relations with the signing of a landmark aviation cooperation agreement. This pivotal accord, signed in Muscat by Nayef bin Ali Al Abri, Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority – Oman, and Diyauddin Saeed Ba’Makhramah, Djibouti’s non-resident ambassador to Oman, is set to bolster collaboration in the aviation sector, facilitating smoother passenger and cargo transport between the two nations.
Kenya and Angola have committed to enhancing their partnership, focusing on the revival of direct Kenya Airways flights between Nairobi and Luanda in March 2025. This announcement followed a high-level meeting between Kenyan President William Ruto and Angolan President João Lourenço at the presidential palace in Luanda. The resumption of these flights, suspended in August 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is anticipated to significantly boost trade and tourism. Additionally, Angola has pledged to reciprocate Kenya’s visa-free policy for Angolan citizens, simplifying travel for both countries.
The Gambia is on track to reestablish its aviation presence with Gambia International Airlines Ltd (GIA) making strides to secure a strategic partnership. Representatives from UAE-based G1 Holdings recently toured Banjul International Airport as part of a three-day visit. GIA’s Managing Director, Numo K. Sanneh, expressed optimism about the collaboration’s potential to transform the country’s aviation sector.
In Liberia, the Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) and Brussels Airlines have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at elevating air traffic control training standards. The agreement, signed by LCAA Director-General Mr. Julius D. Dennis, Jr., and Brussels Airlines Country Manager Ms. Marjolein J. Six, focuses on training six approach controllers and three aerodrome controllers. This initiative directly addresses gaps identified in the 2022 International Civil Aviation Organization audit, enhancing Liberia’s air traffic management capabilities.
Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) has strengthened its partnership with Thales by renewing a three-year maintenance contract. This agreement includes comprehensive support for STAR 2000 and RSM 970S radars and TopSky-ATC systems. The maintenance plan ensures both preventive and corrective measures, including software updates, hardware repairs, and regular health checks, optimizing system performance and ensuring budget predictability.
Egypt’s civil aviation sector is gearing up for growth, with Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny engaging with global leaders in airport services. Among them was TAV Airports, a subsidiary of Aéroports de Paris (ADP). TAV Airports’ CEO, Serkan Kaptan, presented a range of services and potential collaboration opportunities, aligning with Egypt’s strategy to increase private sector participation and solidify its position as a regional aviation hub.
In Uganda, Soroti University is set to introduce Aviation Science programs, thanks to a partnership with Ethiopian Aviation University. Vice Chancellor Prof. Robert Ikoja Odongo announced the development while presenting the university’s 2025–2026 financial year Budget Framework Paper to the Committee on Education and Sports. This collaboration will enhance aviation education in the region.
South Africa’s OpenWeb.co.za, a leading independent internet connectivity provider, has launched an innovative partnership with South African Airways Voyager. Customers can now earn one Voyager Frequent Flyer Mile for every R10 spent on internet services, marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration in the sector.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Saudi low-cost carrier flynas has marked a significant milestone in its African network expansion by launching its first direct flight between Jeddah and Djibouti on January 8, 2025. The airline will operate three weekly flights on this route, aligning with Saudi Arabia‘s Vision 2030 aviation objectives to enhance regional connectivity and economic ties. This new route underscores flynas‘ commitment to expanding its presence across the African continent.
Ryanair – Europe’s Favourite Airline, celebrated its inaugural flight connecting Madrid, Spain, to Dakhla, Morocco, on Wednesday, January 8, 2024. The flight welcomed Moroccan expatriates and international tourists, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion. This new route follows a memorandum of understanding between Ryanair and Morocco’s National Tourism Office (ONMT). Flights will operate twice weekly, every Wednesday and Saturday.
ASL Airlines France has expanded travel options from Toulon Hyères Airport with the introduction of two new routes. Among these is the Toulon-Algiers service, set to operate twice weekly during school holidays. This route strengthens connections between southern France and Algeria, catering to family, cultural, and business travelers. Reservations for the service are now available through the airline’s website, travel agencies, and local partners.
Air Arabia is set to launch nonstop flights between Sharjah and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital, starting January 30. The service will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, utilizing Airbus A320 aircraft. This new route aims to bolster ties between the UAE and Ethiopia, offering travelers greater convenience and accessibility.
Air Algérie has announced the resumption of its Algiers-London Stansted route on April 2, 2025. The flights, which will operate twice weekly using Airbus A330-200 and Boeing 737-800 aircraft, complement the airline’s existing Algiers-London Heathrow service. The Heathrow route will also see an increase in frequency from four to five weekly flights starting with the northern summer 2025 season.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Algeria‘s Transport Minister, Said Sayoud, has announced a significant milestone for the national carrier, Air Algérie, as it embarks on a major fleet expansion. Starting in June 2025, the airline will begin receiving its first of 16 new aircraft, a mix of Airbus Aircrafts and Boeing models. The first delivery, an Airbus A300, will pave the way, with subsequent deliveries scheduled for September, October, and then monthly until the entire order is fulfilled.
Meanwhile, South Africa‘s private carrier, Africa Charter Airlines, has expanded its cargo capabilities with the delivery of a 31-year-old Boeing 737-400 freighter. Now registered as CS-STC (HEX CODE 09A063), the aircraft journeyed from Sofia Airport (SOF) in Bulgaria to Johannesburg (JNB) via stops in Luxor, Egypt, and Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) between January 10 and 11, 2025.
Kenya’s Renegade Air is gearing up for a fleet enhancement of its own, with the imminent deployment of its first Bombardier CRJ200 aircraft. Delivered in December 2024 and leased from Canadian lessor Alberta Aviation Capital Corporation, the 19.7-year-old jet, now registered as 5Y-RNK, is undergoing final operational testing. Previously part of the Delta Connection fleet, this aircraft is set to elevate Renegade Air’s domestic and regional service offerings.
In Nigeria, Anap Jets FZE has bolstered its medevac capabilities with the addition of a 19.9-year-old Embraer ERJ135 aircraft. Configured for air medical evacuation, the jet, now bearing Nigerian registration 5N-CEI, arrived in Lagos in late December 2024 from Toulouse, France. Previously operated by Amelia International, this acquisition reinforces ANAP Jets’ commitment to specialized aviation services.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Ethiopian Airlines Group ushered in 2025 with a significant milestone—the inauguration of Bale’s newly constructed Wako Gutu Terminal in Oromia Regional State. The grand opening on January 5, 2025, was graced by Oromia’s president, H.E. Shimelis Abdisa, alongside government officials and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew. The terminal is set to boost passenger travel and strengthen socio-economic and cultural ties between Ethiopia’s domestic regions and the global market.
In Nigeria, the Federal Government has allocated N2.5 billion in the proposed N49.74 trillion 2025 budget for the installation of passenger boarding bridges at Lagos Airport. This initiative is part of the N105.95 billion designated for the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with N93.03 billion earmarked for capital projects. Additional budget highlights include N500 million to upgrade instrument landing systems from CAT I to CAT II/CAT III at key airports—Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Kano—and N1.5 billion to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity across five international airports and select domestic airports. Other significant allocations include N3.68 billion for establishing Nigeria College of Aviation Technology annexes in Akure, Osubi, Ebonyi, Ilorin, and Yola, N1 billion each for baggage handling systems at Lagos Airport and water cooling chillers at Lagos and Abuja airports, and N200 million to complete the General Aviation Terminal Protocol at MMIA Lagos.
In Morocco, Aero Africa has expanded its footprint by launching a regional office in Casablanca. This office will serve as a control tower and centralized service hub for the company’s overseas partners and clients in North Africa. The Casablanca team will focus on promoting Aero Africa’s digital airfreight portal, developing blocked space agreements (BSA), scheduling consolidations from Asia to North Africa, and delivering tailored air cargo solutions for the region’s freight and logistics industry.
Meanwhile, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) achieved record-breaking revenue performance in 2024. Generating N71.6 billion, the command exceeded its target of N56.861 billion by 20%, a difference of N14.77 billion. July 2024 stood out as the command’s best month, with a record-high revenue of N12 billion. This accomplishment reflects a remarkable growth trajectory, as the NCS generated N30.5 billion in 2023—an impressive 135% increase year-on-year.
People/Appointment.
Brussels Airlines has announced the appointment of Ilse Adriaen as its new Country Manager for Ghana. Adriaen brings a wealth of experience, having held various managerial roles in Benin’s telecom sector as well as in transport and logistics across Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire. She joined Brussels Airlines in 2019 as Country Manager for Benin and now steps into her new role following the retirement of Geert Lemmen in December 2024.
In a similar vein, Afrijet Business Service – FlyGabon has appointed Fadimatou NOUTCHEMO as its Country Director for Cameroon and Nigeria. This strategic move underscores the airline’s commitment to expanding its presence in Africa. With a robust background in aviation management and international relations, Noutchemo Simo is poised to drive operational excellence, foster growth, and build strategic partnerships in these pivotal markets, further cementing Afrijet-FlyGabon’s position as a key player in the region.
Lawsuits.
Zimbabwe-based commercial airline and charter service provider Executive Air has come under scrutiny amid allegations of violating several regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ). At the heart of these concerns is the alleged non-compliance with pilot age restrictions outlined in Section 79 (1) of the Civil Aviation Act [Chapter 13:16] and the Civil Aviation (Operations of Aircraft) Regulations, 2023. The regulations explicitly state that the maximum age for pilots operating commercial air transport is 65 years. However, the airline’s directors, who reportedly serve as chief pilots, have continued to operate flights despite surpassing this age limit.
In Mozambique, a dramatic legal dispute disrupted Airlink flights to and from Nampula. The suspension followed a Mozambican court’s interim order to seize three Airlink aircraft over a claim filed by two passengers offloaded in Johannesburg for unruly behavior. On December 28, 2024, court officials attempted but failed to seize an aircraft at Nampula Airport. However, flights resumed on January 9, 2025, after reassurances from South African and Mozambican authorities that the issue had been sufficiently resolved to allow Airlink operations to continue without the risk of aircraft seizure.
A tribunal has ordered Qatar Airways to refund KSh172,650 to a Kenyan passenger, Nelly, after she was denied entry into Cyprus due to an alleged visa issue. On July 3, 2022, Nelly embarked on her journey from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, routing through Doha and Ankara to Ercan International Airport in Cyprus to attend her daughter’s graduation. However, upon reaching Doha, the airline barred her from continuing to Cyprus, citing the lack of a visa. Despite assurances from the Cyprus Consulate and the Kenyan Embassy that her Kenyan passport allowed her to obtain a visa upon arrival, Qatar Airways repatriated her to Kenya from Doha, cutting short her travel plans.
Awards and Recognition.
Kenya’s Astral Aviation Ltd has been shortlisted for the prestigious STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo in the category of “African All-Cargo Carrier of the Year.” The airline stands alongside other notable contenders, including DHL Aviation, Express Air Cargo Airline, and Network Airline Management. You can support the airline by casting your vote here.
Aviation Accidents/Incidents.
A Sikorsky S-61N helicopter, chartered by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) to support the Beninese Armed Forces in medical evacuations, encountered technical difficulties after departing Parakou, Benin, at 07:58 on Friday January 10, 2025. The crew made an emergency landing in the village of Gnanwizoumè, Bonou, at 09:20. Another Sikorsky S-61N (N761HG) arrived to perform repairs, allowing the helicopter to resume its journey to Cotonou at 15:28. However, it crashed near Zè in Sèdjè Dénou at 15:40 due to further technical issues. Remarkably, all crew members, including four Americans, escaped unharmed.
On January 5, 2025, Cameroon carrier, CAMAIR-CO flight QC222, a Boeing 737-700, experienced cabin pressure loss while en route from Yaoundé-Nsimalen International Airport (NSI) to Garoua Airport (GOU). The crew managed a safe landing at GOU, ensuring the safety of everyone onboard.
In Namibia, hundreds of Belgian, Dutch, and German tourists were stranded at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) for four days due to repeated cancellations of Eurowings Discover Airlines flight 4Y139 to Frankfurt. The Airbus A330-300 (reg. D-AIKK) suffered delays after a defective part grounded the aircraft. Technicians were eventually flown in with the necessary replacement part, and the tourists were able to return to Frankfurt.
Tragedy struck in Malindi, Kenya on January 10, 2025, when a Cessna 172N Skyhawk training aircraft crashed in the Kwachocha area, Malindi under unclear circumstances. The accident resulted in three fatalities on the ground. The three occupants of the aircraft survived, but the plane was destroyed by a post-crash fire.
In other news:
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) kicked off a five-day intensive Hostmanship training program for its personnel at Banjul International Airport. This initiative, supported by the government of the Netherlands through its embassy in Dakar, Senegal, is designed to enhance the skills of frontline staff and empower them to provide exceptional service to international visitors.
Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier of Kenya, has donated a Boeing 737-700 aircraft to Mang’u High School, marking the culmination of three years of collaboration between the airline, the institution, and the school’s alumni. This generous donation is set to serve as a state-of-the-art training resource, enriching the school’s aviation technology curriculum and offering students hands-on experience with modern aviation systems.
Meanwhile, South African carrier FlySafair is under scrutiny over its overbooking practices, a common strategy among global airlines. The airline is now being investigated by South Africa‘s National Consumer Commission (NCC) after a passenger voiced concerns about being denied boarding due to overbooking. FlySafair has stated that it overbooks flights by no more than 1% of total seating capacity. For example, on a plane with 189 seats, the airline would typically overbook by no more than two seats. Despite this, the number of passengers actually denied boarding remains minimal.
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