(Posted 20th May 2025)
Introduction.
The 37th International Air Transport Association (IATA) Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) was successfully held from May 13 to 15, 2025, at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya, with Kenya Airways serving as the official host airline. This milestone event marked the first time the IGHC was hosted on the African continent. Held under the theme “Elevate”, the conference drew a record attendance of over 1,500 industry stakeholders, including airline executives, airport authorities, ground handling service providers, regulators, and technology partners from around the world. The event served as a vital platform to address key issues and transformative trends in ground handling services, safety, and efficiency.
Meanwhile, from May 11 to 14, 2025, the 13th Aviation Stakeholders Convention and the 2nd African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit were jointly held at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda. Organized by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and the Flight Safety Foundation, and hosted by RwandAir Ltd with support from the Government of Rwanda. Held under the theme “Sustainability. Collaborate. Innovate,” the events provided a dynamic forum for policy makers, airline operators, OEMs, safety experts, and technology providers to explore solutions to the continent’s most pressing aviation challenges.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
Mwant Jet, based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, has regained its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the DR Congo Civil Aviation Authority, allowing it to resume operations after being suspended for over two years. The suspension, which began in 2023, was due to financial difficulties and a dispute among shareholders. Prior to grounding, Mwant Jet operated two Embraer ERJ145 aircraft serving domestic routes within the country. The airline is now fully owned by Michael Yav Tshikung, who is leading the effort to restart services despite significant ongoing challenges, including a multimillion-franc debt and ongoing legal issues.
On May 17, 2025, the Nigerian federal government introduced updated insurance regulations for leased aircraft to better align with the Cape Town Convention, aiming to facilitate aircraft leasing and financing. The new rules provide clearer guidelines on insurance coverage requirements, risk management, and claims procedures specifically for leased aircraft operating within Nigeria. By harmonizing local insurance laws with international standards, Nigeria seeks to attract more foreign lessors, reduce financing costs for airlines, and improve the overall ease of doing business in its aviation sector. These reforms are expected to boost aircraft availability, support fleet modernization, and enhance the country’s position as a key aviation hub in Africa.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
According to the latest May 2025 data from OAG, total airline seat capacity across Africa has grown by 4.2% year-on-year, reaching approximately 15.5 million seats. Notably, international capacity now accounts for 68% of the total, reflecting a robust 6.6% increase, while domestic capacity has dipped slightly by 0.6%. This continued shift toward cross-border connectivity highlights renewed demand for intra- and intercontinental travel. Low-cost carriers (LCCs) are playing a pivotal role in this trend, recording a 9.4% year-on-year growth, signaling a rising preference for affordable and accessible air travel across the continent.
In 2024, African nationals faced alarmingly high rejection rates when applying for Schengen visas, resulting in significant financial losses due to non-refundable application fees of €90 (approximately $100). For instance, Nigerians submitted 111,201 applications, with 46% rejected—translating to over $5 million lost. Similarly, 66,329 Kenyans applied, with a 29% rejection rate costing nearly $2 million, while in Comoros, fewer than 3,000 applicants saw just a 37% approval rate, highlighting a severe disparity. Countries like Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Ghana, and Congo (Brazzaville) also recorded rejection rates above 40%, while nations such as South Africa, Mauritius, and Liberia had much lower denial rates, some below 1%. These statistics underscore the disproportionate barriers Africans face in accessing European travel opportunities, despite often fulfilling application requirements. The data raises ethical concerns about visa equity and transparency, especially given the vital role international mobility plays in education, business, tourism, and diplomacy.
In Kenya, the aviation sector continues to play a critical role in economic development. A recent report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), presented during the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) held in Nairobi, revealed that aviation contributes 3.1% to Kenya’s GDP—equivalent to USD 3.3 billion—and supports approximately 460,000 jobs. Of this, 21,100 people are directly employed in aviation-related roles, generating USD 1.2 billion in economic output. Airlines, airports, and related service providers contribute USD 1 billion and create 5,700 direct jobs, while the air navigation and aerospace manufacturing sectors add USD 136.2 million and support 15,400 jobs. Additionally, aviation-facilitated tourism contributes another USD 1.2 billion to the economy, employing 242,200 people.
Tanzania’s aviation sector recorded robust growth between July 2024 and March 2025, with passenger numbers exceeding 6 million—an 18.8% increase compared to the same period the previous year. Domestic traffic rose to 3.2 million (+15.6%), while international traffic surged 22.6% to 2.83 million. Cargo volumes jumped 20% to 33,112.5 tonnes, supported by Air Tanzania’s addition of a new cargo aircraft. The TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA) inspected 17 newly registered aircraft—including a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, ATRs, helicopters, and light aircraft—and conducted 142 airworthiness checks. This growth reflects expanding connectivity, strategic infrastructure development, and enhanced regulatory oversight.
Commercial aircraft manufacturing slowed in April 2025, with Boeing delivering 45 aircraft (up from 41 in March) but still falling short of targets due to supply chain issues and tariffs impacting the 737 MAX and 787. It recorded just eight new orders, all for the 737 MAX. Airbus delivered 56 aircraft, down from 71 in March, but maintained its 2025 delivery goal of 820. It received 11 new orders, including 10 A350-1000s for China Airlines. Both face large backlogs—Airbus with 8,668 aircraft and Boeing with 6,273. A spike in orders is expected at the Paris Air Show in June.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Uganda has strengthened its diplomatic and economic ties with Latvia by signing a Bilateral Air Services Agreement during Foreign Affairs Minister jeje odongo’s visit to Latvia from May 11–12, 2025. The agreement, signed alongside Latvian Minister of Transport Atis Švinka, aims to establish direct air connectivity between the two nations, fostering growth in tourism, trade, and investment. This development aligns with Uganda Airlines’ recent launch of direct flights to London and reflects Uganda’s strategic intent to broaden its European aviation network and deepen partnerships beyond traditional allies to support its broader economic agenda.
On May 13, 2025, a delegation from Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Authority visited Benina International Airport in Benghazi to evaluate preparations for resuming direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Libya. Led by Benina Airport Director Saleh Al-Omrani, the team inspected critical facilities with a focus on safety standards, operational procedures, security protocols, and compliance with international aviation norms. The visit aimed to ensure the airport’s readiness to safely handle incoming flights, facilitating smoother air traffic between Saudi airports and Benina.
In Cairo, EGYPTAIR Chairman Pilot Ahmed Adel met with French Ambassador Eric Chevallier to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in civil aviation. The talks centered on expanding air traffic and tourism flows between Egypt and France. Adel underscored Egypt’s strategic geographic position as a gateway connecting continents, while emphasizing opportunities for joint ventures, connectivity expansion, and knowledge exchange. Ambassador Chevallier lauded EgyptAir’s pivotal role in fostering bilateral ties and reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting tourism growth and investment prospects, highlighting Egypt’s enduring appeal to French travelers.
Morocco advanced its transport sector modernization on May 15, 2025, by signing three landmark agreements between the Ministry of Transport and Logistics and the Foundation for Research, Development and Innovation in Science and Engineering (FRDISI). These agreements target the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across rail, air, and road transport sectors. Initiatives include implementing AI-driven predictive maintenance for the rail operator ONCF, enhancing airport safety and passenger flow with ONDA, and applying machine learning for fleet management with SNTL.
On May 17, 2025, EGYPTAIR’s Karnak tourism division signed cooperation agreements with several national institutions and universities to boost tourism service delivery. Partners include the Ministries of Culture and Finance, the National Security Council, Nahdet Misr for Journalism and Media, King Salman International University, and Benha National University ????? ???? ???????. The agreements encompass flight ticketing, hotel accommodations, domestic and international tour packages, and pilgrimage services such as Hajj and Umrah. Captain Mohamed Alyan, EgyptAir Chairman, emphasized that these partnerships are aligned with the airline’s strategy to strengthen institutional collaboration and expand tourism services to meet the diverse needs of public sector entities.
Ethiopian Airlines Group announced two major agreements with GE Aerospace on May 14, 2025, reinforcing its commitment to fleet modernization, operational efficiency, and sustainability. The airline confirmed its selection of GEnx engines to power 11 new Boeing 787 Dreamliners, increasing its GEnx-powered fleet to 30 aircraft. Additionally, it reaffirmed orders for GE9X engines to equip eight Boeing 777-9s, with options for six more. Both agreements include comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) service contracts.
On May 15, 2025, Ethiopian Airlines proudly welcomed H.E. Mr. Erkin Tuniyaz, Chairman of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, along with delegates from Xinjiang Commercial Group and Xinjiang Airport Group, marking the occasion with the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in passenger and cargo transport, cross-border e-commerce, high-tech industries, and the movement of perishable goods. Following the signing, the delegation engaged in productive discussions with Ethiopian Airlines Group CCO Mr. Lemma Yadecha Gudeta and the executive management team, solidifying a shared vision for innovation, mutual growth, and high-quality regional development.
Kenya Airways has partnered with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to pilot the Integrated Sustainability Program (ISP), an innovative initiative to advance sustainability in aviation. As host of the 37th IATA Ground Handling Conference in Nairobi, Kenya Airways worked closely with IATA to test and refine the ISP by sharing operational insights. The program focuses on sustainable procurement, social responsibility, and performance monitoring. Kenya Airways is progressing toward full ISP certification, reinforcing its long-term dedication to sustainable operations and industry leadership.
On May 14, 2025, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) announced a partnership with the KANU NWANKWO HEART FOUNDATION (KHF) and the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation to support open-heart surgery access in Nigeria. The collaboration was highlighted during a visit to Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital (DIOMH) in Anambra State, which houses advanced cardiothoracic facilities. Kanu Nwankwo, KHF founder and former international footballer, praised the initiative for reducing the need for costly overseas surgeries.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
TAAG-ANGOLA AIRLINES LIMITED commenced operations of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on May 12, inaugurating its first intercontinental route to São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport in Brazil. This aircraft, leased earlier this year and already in service domestically since March, is the first of four Dreamliners ordered as part of TAAG’s fleet modernization. It features 313 seats across Business (1-2-1), Premium Economy (2-3-2), and Economy (3-3-3) cabins.
Uganda Airlines plans to launch flights to Bangui, Central African Republic, following a new bilateral air services agreement aimed at boosting African connectivity. The announcement was made by Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala, during the Uganda Road Safety Conference on May 15. The agreement was finalized after high-level talks in Kampala with a CAR delegation led by their Minister of Transport. While no official launch date is set, industry insiders anticipate regular service before the end of 2025.
RwandAir Ltd is refocusing its strategy on Eastern and Southern Africa after the Democratic Republic of Congo imposed a ban on Rwandan aircraft in its airspace, forcing suspensions of routes to Brazzaville, Abuja, and Cotonou. CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo announced these changes at the 13th Aviation Stakeholders Convention in Kigali. To offset disruptions, RwandAir plans new direct flights to Mombasa, Kenya and Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Astral Aviation Ltd resumed humanitarian flights to Port Sudan New International Airport on May 15, following a temporary suspension caused by a recent drone attack amid Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The airline also delivered 12.5 tonnes of UNICEF -chartered cargo—primarily vaccines—from Nairobi to Yemen, underscoring its vital role in regional aid delivery.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
On May 12, 2025, the Algerian government expanded its official fleet by adding a Boeing 737-8D6(WL), registered as 7T-VKG. Leased from the national carrier Air Algérie, this aircraft features a two-class layout with 16 business and 132 economy seats, totaling 148. Originally delivered to Air Algérie on March 30, 2011, the aircraft is now over 14 years old. With a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles (5,436 km), the 737-800 is ideal for regional and medium-haul missions.
Libyan private carrier Buraq Express announced on May 14, 2025, the addition of an Airbus A320-214, registered 5A-BAE, to its fleet. This 13.7-year-old aircraft, leased from Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG), was delivered as part of the airline’s fleet expansion project. It joins two similar A320s added earlier this year. The all-economy configured plane, seating 180 passengers, was originally introduced by Cebu Pacific in 2011.
Air Botswana added another Embraer ERJ-145LR to its fleet on May 9, 2025, just days after inducting a similar model (V5-ABQ) on May 2. The new aircraft, registered V5-ABW and nicknamed Matsieng W, is 17.1 years old and leased from Westair Aviation, accommodating 50 passengers.
On May 15, South African Airways (SAA) took delivery of a 12-year-old Airbus A320 from Air Lease Corporation (ALC) in Johannesburg, strengthening its narrow-body fleet. SAA now operates 17 aircraft, including 13 A320s, and continues to deepen its partnership with AerCap, which currently leases five A320s to SAA and plans to deliver another later this year. Supporting its regional and long-haul growth, SAA aims to add five new aircraft in 2025, including two A330-300s leased from CMB Financial Leasing.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
On May 13, 2025, SITA inaugurated its first Middle East and Africa Command Center in Cairo, becoming the company’s third global hub after Montreal and Singapore. Operating 24/7, the center provides real-time monitoring of aviation networks, infrastructure, and applications, supporting airports, airlines, and governments worldwide. The facility highlights Egypt’s strategic location, expanding aviation sector, skilled tech workforce, and enabling policy environment. SITA’s regional president, Selim Bouri, noted the hub’s alignment with Egypt’s efforts to modernize airport infrastructure through public-private partnerships and emphasized the deployment of AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency, safety, and passenger experience amid rising demand in MENA.
On May 16, 2025, Emirates launched its first travel retail store in West Africa, located in Accra, Ghana—its 13th globally. Situated in Stanbic Heights, Airport City, the 310 m² Emirates Travel Store offers an immersive experience with expert travel consultants, smart self-service tech, and interactive showcases. Highlights include a full-size Emirates A380 Onboard Lounge replica, selfie mirrors with scenic backdrops, and convenient self-service kiosks. Inaugurated by senior Emirates and Ghanaian officials, the store reflects Emirates’ commitment to Ghana as a key gateway in its African network by blending personalized service with innovative technology.
Tanzania announced plans to build an environmentally conscious “Green International Airport” in the Serengeti as part of its 2025/26 national budget. On May 15, 2025, Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa presented the budget in Parliament, allocating TSh3 billion for the airport’s feasibility study and initial construction. The new airport aims to enhance tourism access to Serengeti National Park while prioritizing environmental sustainability to protect the delicate ecosystem.
As of May 16, 2025, sixteen Namibian companies have expressed interest in establishing a new national airline following Air Namibia’s liquidation in 2021. The Ministry of Works and Transport has formed a technical committee of aviation experts to oversee the project. The government targets launching the new carrier by December 2026, emphasizing it will be distinct from the former airline. Minister Veiko Nekundi highlighted the airline’s potential economic benefits and its role in boosting Namibia’s economy.
Bolt introduced a new flight tracking feature on its ride-hailing platform to improve airport pickups by automatically adjusting scheduled rides based on real-time flight delays or cancellations. Available under the ‘Scheduled Rides’ option, users can enter flight details for automatic monitoring, enabling Bolt to update or cancel rides at no extra cost. This enhances convenience for private and corporate users alike. Bolt is also improving the airport experience with in-app photo guides, better signage, and pick-up codes at select airports.
Somalia officially reopened Doolow Airport in Jubbaland after a four-month suspension that began in December 2024 amid escalating conflict between federal forces and Jubbaland’s regional government. Jubbaland forces, supported by Ethiopian troops, had gained control of key strategic areas. The flight ban was part of broader political disputes, with accusations of federal interference in humanitarian aid and development projects. The airport’s reopening signals a move toward normalcy, enabling humanitarian aid and travel in the region.
VISA/Passports/Travel.
Bangladesh and Egypt are poised to sign a reciprocal visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders, with the draft currently pending Egypt’s approval. Discussions also explored the possibility of introducing on-arrival visas for ordinary passport holders. This followed a meeting between Bangladesh’s Home Adviser, Lt. Gen. Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, and Egyptian Ambassador Omar Fahmy.
As of May 18, 2025, a total of 8,463 Ghanaians have successfully received their new chip-embedded biometric passports via courier delivery at no extra cost. This milestone follows the government’s launch of the Reset Passport Reforms on April 28, 2025, which introduced these advanced passports with embedded electronic chips to enhance security and combat fraud. The reforms aim to streamline application and issuance processes by leveraging technology to reduce processing times and improve service delivery.
The United Kingdom officially ended its care worker visa program on May 12, 2025, affecting Kenyan professionals recruited under a 2021 bilateral labor agreement. Prime Minister Keir Starmer cited concerns over exploitation of foreign workers and the government’s goal to reduce reliance on overseas labor. The policy change is part of broader immigration reforms—including stricter English language requirements, higher skill thresholds for work visas, longer settlement periods, increased employer immigration fees, and the rollout of digital IDs and eVisas—applied across all countries.
France has expelled Algerian diplomats in retaliation for Algeria’s recent expulsion of 15 French officials, escalating a diplomatic standoff. The French Foreign Ministry invoked “strict reciprocity” and called on Algeria to return to constructive dialogue. This tit-for-tat move breaches a 2013 agreement that allowed visa-free travel for diplomatic passport holders and follows Algeria’s allegations that France violated diplomatic protocols in appointing new envoys. The dispute, rooted in longstanding issues around colonial history, immigration, and France’s support for Morocco’s Western Sahara claims, now threatens over $12 billion in bilateral trade and may impact travel for Algeria’s sizable diaspora in France.
On May 14, 2025, the United States raised its travel advisory for Somalia to Level 4 – Do Not Travel – due to escalating security threats, including terrorism, armed conflict, and limited government control. The advisory highlights frequent Al-Shabaab attacks, recent bombings in Mogadishu, threats to the airport, and severely restricted U.S. consular operations confined to Mogadishu International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration has also banned U.S. flights over Somali airspace. Somalia’s worsening political crisis, clan rivalries, and militia recruitment continue to destabilize the country, raising fears of renewed large-scale conflict.
People/Appointment.
On May 15, 2025, the Mozambican Institute for the Management of State Holdings (IGEPE) announced the appointment of former Air Serbia CEO Dane Kondi? as Chair of the Management Committee of LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES, marking a pivotal step in the airline’s turnaround strategy. This decision follows the government’s dissolution of LAM’s Board of Directors and the launch of a comprehensive restructuring plan for the state-owned carrier, which currently employs approximately 900 staff. President Daniel Chapo confirmed that a forensic audit covering the airline’s financial activities over the past decade will be conducted, citing the presence of “foxes and corrupt individuals” and entrenched conflicts of interest that have hindered previous reform efforts. To support LAM’s revival and Mozambique’s broader aviation sector, the government has engaged international consultancy Knighthood Global, led by former Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan.
Fred Bamwesigye, Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), was appointed to a three-year term on the Global Executive Committee of the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO) during the 29th CANSO Annual General Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, on May 15, 2025, held alongside the Airspace World 2025 event. Nominated by CANSO Africa and unanimously elected by CANSO Global, Bamwesigye succeeds Dr. Muhammad Mousa, former Director General of ASECNA. The CANSO Executive Committee functions as the organization’s governing board, overseeing performance, Director General appointments, budget approvals, and policy reviews.
Kenya government has appointed veteran pilot Captain Peter Maranga and Ministry of Transport official Fredrick Kabunge to co-chair a seven-member investigation team tasked with reviewing preliminary accident reports submitted by South Sudan and Somalia over the past five years involving Kenyan-registered or operated aircraft. Established by Gazette Notice on March 27, 2025, the team will operate for three months, conducting interviews, analyzing data, and consulting aviation stakeholders to verify findings and recommend safety improvements. The initiative follows the May 3, 2025, death of a Kenyan pilot when his Boeing 727 cargo aircraft was struck during a Sudanese military airstrike at Nyala Airport.
EGYPTAIR has appointed Dalia Ahmed Ragaa el-Maraghy as the new Head of Alliances and International Relations at Egyptair Holding Company. The appointment, announced by Pilot Ahmed Adel, Chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Holding, aligns with the airline’s strategy to strengthen global partnerships and enhance connectivity. El-Maraghy brings extensive experience to the role, having served previously as EgyptAir’s Regional Manager in Amsterdam and Washington, and as General Manager of International Relations within the Alliances Sector.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
On May 13, 2025, Chairman Gervais koffi Djondo, founder of Ecobank and ASKY AIRLINES, was honored with the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize for Global Banking and Aviation Excellence at the Millennium Excellence Awards held at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana. The event, under the patronage of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, recognized Djondo’s significant contributions to Africa’s development. In his acceptance speech, Djondo emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing Africa’s challenges, urging leaders and youth to unite in harnessing the continent’s potential.
Lawsuits.
On May 17, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice held a virtual meeting with families of victims from the two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia (2018) and Ethiopia (2019), which killed 346 people. The meeting precedes a June 23 trial where Boeing faces criminal fraud charges for allegedly misleading the FAA about the aircraft’s MCAS flight control system. After violating a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement, the DOJ seeks a new plea deal that would convict Boeing as a felon, impose fines up to $487 million, and require $455 million in safety investments over three years under court supervision. Families have criticized the proposed settlement as too lenient, amid ongoing safety concerns including a January 2024 Alaska Airlines incident involving a 737 MAX 9.
French oil marketer RUBiS Energy Kenya has initiated legal proceedings against aviation services provider Skytanking Kenya Limited over an unpaid jet fuel bill totaling KSh396.4 million. Filed at Nairobi’s High Court, the dispute concerns fuel supplied over two years ago, for which Rubis alleges non-payment. The claim includes a principal sum of USD 2,726,127 (approximately KSh352.3 million) plus accrued interest and charges amounting to USD 341,436.90 (about KSh44.1 million). Rubis is also demanding interest at 2% per month from the due date until full settlement. Despite repeated payment demands, Rubis asserts that Skytanking has failed to clear the outstanding balance, prompting legal action.
Air Mauritius has engaged global risk advisory firm Kroll to conduct an independent investigation into key fleet and maintenance decisions made during and following its voluntary administration period (April 2020–September 2021). The probe focuses on three areas: the sale of five aircraft (two A340-300s, two A319-100s, and one A330-200), the 2022 tender process for leasing two A330-200s, and the 2023 order of three A350-900s. Each transaction is being assessed for economic justification, regulatory compliance, and alignment with the airline’s strategic objectives. Concurrently, the airline’s board is conducting an internal inquiry into engine negligence linked to ESN 41426, which sustained severe damage despite over 40 maintenance interventions between November 2023 and February 2024, resulting in an $8.45 million loss. A technical consultant attributed the damage to negligence, prompting efforts to identify responsible parties and strengthen maintenance oversight.
South African aviation consultancy Flymodernark (FMA) has filed a lawsuit against Mozambique’s national carrier, LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES, over unpaid fees related to a restructuring contract executed between 2023 and 2024. FMA alleges that LAM breached the agreement by only partially paying the final invoice and has taken legal action, including securing a Johannesburg property valued at three million rand as collateral. During its engagement, FMA uncovered alleged embezzlement schemes involving approximately $3.2 million lost through unauthorized point-of-sale systems operated by external actors. In response, the Mozambican government has launched a forensic audit of LAM’s operations spanning the past decade. FMA has expressed full cooperation, attributing ongoing theft and mismanagement to entrenched internal networks. Meanwhile, Mozambique’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into the legality of FMA’s hiring, probing potential corruption or financial misconduct, further complicating LAM’s operational and financial challenges.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On May 16, 2025, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s private jet experienced a serious mid-air technical fault during its return flight from Eastern Europe, forcing an emergency landing in Egypt. The Dubai-registered Boeing business jet suffered a rapid cabin pressure drop and navigation system failure shortly after leaving Belarusian airspace. The pilot issued a distress call, and Egyptian authorities coordinated a swift emergency landing at Borg El Arab Airport in Alexandria. All passengers and crew escaped unharmed. The aircraft sustained moderate damage to its undercarriage and hydraulic systems but remained structurally sound.
On May 14, 2025, a Savannah S two-seater aircraft crashed near a village in Chad’s southern Zakouma region during a rhinoceros monitoring mission. Operated by the African Parks Network, the aircraft went down around 5:00 GMT, killing both occupants: a South African pilot and a Chadian environment ministry official. Chad’s Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the crash and has launched an investigation into the cause.
In other news:
Ethiopia has barred foreign nationals from traveling to the Tigray region amid rising tensions between the federal government and regional authorities. The decision, confirmed on May 14, 2025, comes as Tigray, recovering from the 2020–2022 civil war, was beginning to welcome tourists again. The reason for the ban remains unclear, and federal agencies, including Ethiopian Airlines, have not commented. Reports suggest the directive may have come from the National Intelligence and Security Service. Local officials warn the restriction could hinder peace and stability efforts, highlighting ongoing political and governance challenges in the fragile region despite the 2022 peace agreement.
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, secured significant support from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during a visit in May 2025, including commitments for technical assistance to establish a new national airline. This partnership aims to strengthen Ghana’s aviation sector as part of broader investment and job creation initiatives agreed upon between Ghana and the UAE. The UAE’s involvement in the national airline project is seen as a key step toward building a robust and efficient carrier, aligning with President Mahama’s vision to boost Ghana’s economic growth and international connectivity.
Air traffic has resumed at Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport following a temporary shutdown caused by recent unrest in the Libyan capital. Airport authorities confirmed the return of all foreign airlines to regular operations, including the rescheduling of Hajj flights. The unrest was sparked by the death of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, head of the Stability Support Apparatus linked to the Presidential Council, which triggered armed clashes and protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) condemned the violence and called for an immediate ceasefire to protect civilians. Mitiga, situated approximately 8 kilometers east of Tripoli’s center, has served as the city’s main international airport since 2018, after Tripoli International Airport was severely damaged during the civil conflict.
A viral video has sparked widespread attention after claiming that Air Zimbabwe Private Limited operated a flight from Harare to Johannesburg with only one passenger aboard. The footage, shared by Mlandeli Ndlela on social media, shows an almost empty cabin, with Ndlela asserting that he was the sole traveler on the Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft. This incident has reignited discussions about the airline’s financial challenges, declining passenger numbers, and operational inefficiencies. Critics argue that continuing to operate near-empty flights wastes resources and question the airline’s pricing strategy, especially when competitors offer more affordable and reliable services. While the airline has not officially confirmed the claim, the video has garnered significant attention, highlighting the ongoing issues facing Air Zimbabwe.
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