(Posted 24th June 2025)
Introduction.
From 16 to 20 June 2025, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Western and Central Africa (WACAF) Office convened a regional volcanic ash workshop in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The event brought together aviation regulators, meteorological agencies, volcano observatories, and air navigation service providers to develop a harmonized safety framework tailored to Africa’s unique volcanic risk profile. Key priorities included strengthening early-warning systems, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and contextualizing ICAO standards for volcanic ash contingency planning. This initiative represents a significant step forward in regional preparedness, aimed at ensuring safer flight operations amid volcanic hazards.
Meanwhile, from 17 to 19 June 2025, Kampala hosted the 15th IFATSEA Africa Regional Meeting, drawing over 100 Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs) and aviation leaders from across the continent. Held under the theme “Digital Transformation in CNS/ATM: Strengthening ATSEP Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable Future,” the meeting spotlighted emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drone-based calibration, and satellite navigation. Uganda Civil Aviation Authority‘s showcased its locally developed aeronautical billing and maintenance management systems, underscoring its commitment to innovation. The meeting concluded with the establishment of regional working groups to accelerate the integration of AI and drone technologies into Africa’s aviation safety systems.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
In response to the EU’s ban on Tanzania-registered airlines, the TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA) has temporarily opened its skies to international carriers—including Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines —for six months to mitigate trade and connectivity losses. The TCAA has also issued block permits to enable collaborations with foreign operators, allowing them to position aircraft in Tanzania and serve affected clients. This measure ensures continued air services while the country works to address regulatory gaps and restore compliance, aiming to reinstate its carriers in European airspace through ongoing safety and oversight reforms.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
According to OAG , South African carriers FlySafair and South African Airways ranked among the world’s top performers in on-time performance (OTP) in May 2025. FlySafair achieved an impressive 95.71% OTP across 5,059 flights, with zero cancellations—placing it second globally behind Garuda Indonesia, which recorded 98.39%. South African Airways secured 17th place in the global top 20, with an OTP of 86.7% from 1,620 flights and a cancellation rate of just 1.91%.
Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport (AIGE) in Lomé, Togo, handled 329,618 passengers in Q1 2025, a 1.2% increase compared to 325,709 passengers in Q1 2024. For the full year 2024, the airport welcomed 1,506,946 passengers, marking a 6.2% rise from approximately 1.4 million in 2023. This growth has been driven by route expansions from key carriers, particularly Lomé-based ASKY AIRLINES, which added more flights to Abidjan and resumed service to Pointe-Noire. In 2023, six new routes were introduced—four by ASKY and two by Ethiopian Airlines. The Togolese government plans to expand the airport’s capacity to accommodate 2 million passengers annually in the medium term.
Morocco achieved a new milestone with 7.2 million tourist arrivals in the first five months of 2025—a 22% year-on-year increase and a 68% surge compared to the same period in 2019. The Ministry of Tourism attributed the strong performance—1.3 million more visitors than last year—to effective strategic planning and the implementation of the 2023–2026 tourism roadmap. Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor credited the achievement to targeted government investments and the leadership of King Mohammed VI. The roadmap emphasizes expanding air connectivity, ramping up international promotion, and diversifying tourism offerings to support Morocco’s ambition of attracting 26 million tourists by 2030.
Air Algérie Cargo is forecasting growth of 8–12% in 2025, supported by increasing demand from exporters and government efforts to promote non-hydrocarbon exports. In 2024, the carrier transported approximately 29,000 tonnes of cargo—a 32% increase year-on-year—serving destinations across five continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. To support its expansion, Air Algérie Cargo has added a Boeing 737-800 BCF and a 737-700 with a 16-tonne payload, with the flexibility to lease additional aircraft. The airline is also targeting African markets such as Senegal and Mauritania and is pursuing its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to operate independently. A major growth enabler is the government’s Special Fund for the Promotion of Exports (FSPE), which now subsidizes 50% of air freight costs. A recent reform introduced on January 6, 2025, allows exporters to pay only half the freight cost upfront, improving cost-efficiency and boosting competitiveness.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Air Algérie and Sonatrach have signed a landmark agreement transferring ownership of tassili airlines to Air Algérie, marking a major restructuring of Algeria’s domestic aviation sector. The move follows President Tebboune’s March 2025 directive to enhance regional connectivity and modernize air services. The integration aims to streamline operations, improve access in underserved areas, and expand inter-regional air routes. The transition is being carried out under strict regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and efficiency. The agreement was officially announced on June 19, 2025.
At the 2025 International Paris Air Show, Boeing and TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola signed an MoU to support Angola’s aviation modernization strategy. The partnership focuses on digital transformation, technical capacity building, fleet expansion, and route optimization. Angola’s Minister of Transport, Ricardo Viegas D’Abreu, emphasized TAAG’s ambition to become a leading African carrier. Boeing reaffirmed its long-term commitment to supporting African aviation growth, aligning with Angola’s investment in a new international airport and national efforts to boost tourism and economic development.
Safarilink Aviation, Kenya’s leading safari airline, signed a Letter of Intent with French aerospace firm AURA-AERO for four hybrid-electric ERA aircraft, with options for two more. Unveiled at the 2025 Paris Air Show, the 19-seat aircraft is powered by eight electric motors and two SAF-compatible generators. It can fly up to 900 nautical miles and cut CO? emissions by up to 80%. Designed for unpaved airstrips, the aircraft is ideal for East Africa’s safari routes. The deal positions Safarilink among Africa’s pioneers in sustainable aviation, aligned with Kenya’s climate commitments.
AIR AUSTRAL and Madagascar Airlines have signed a codeshare and Special Prorate Agreement to strengthen air connectivity between Madagascar, Réunion, and long-haul destinations. Under the partnership, Madagascar Airlines passengers can book Air Austral flights under the MD code to destinations like Johannesburg and Bangkok. Air Austral, in return, gains access to Madagascar’s domestic network. Effective June 27, 2025, the cooperation supports Madagascar Airlines’ Phénix 2030 plan and Air Austral’s regional expansion strategy, aiming to deliver improved route coverage and seamless travel across the Indian Ocean region.
Dublin Aerospace has renewed its contract with EGYPTAIR MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING for another five years to overhaul Boeing 737NG landing gear. The partnership, which began in 2017, will continue from July 2025. Dublin Aerospace operates a state-of-the-art facility at Dublin Airport and a landing gear center in Ashbourne with capacity to service 250 B737 and A320 gear legs annually. The deal underscores both companies’ shared focus on safety, operational reliability, and engineering excellence, reinforcing their roles in delivering quality MRO services to the global aviation market.
EGYPTAIR announced an expanded partnership with Rolls-Royce at the 2025 Paris Air Show, ordering 12 Trent XWB-84 engines for six new Airbus Aircraft A350-900s. This brings its total Trent XWB order to 32 engines. The deal includes the TotalCare maintenance program, offering real-time engine monitoring and lifecycle cost savings. The upgraded XWB-84 provides a 1% fuel efficiency boost, potentially saving mid-sized fleets up to $5 million annually. The agreement supports EgyptAir’s efforts to modernize its long-haul fleet and increase operational sustainability across key international routes.
Boeing signed a new agreement with Casablanca Aeronautique.ma to manufacture precision-machined parts for the 737 MAX program, strengthening its industrial footprint in Morocco. Announced on June 16, 2025, the partnership supports Boeing’s strategy to diversify global supply chains and foster local aerospace capacity. Casablanca Aéronautique, part of Figeac Aéro Group, employs 900 people and offers integrated manufacturing solutions. Boeing highlighted that the deal will create jobs, bolster Morocco’s aerospace ecosystem, and reflect its commitment to long-term collaboration with the Moroccan government and industry stakeholders.
Egyptair tourism ( Karnak ) & Duty Free has signed a cooperation agreement with Nile Air to supply international duty-free products across Nile Air’s in-flight services. The partnership marks EgyptAir’s expansion into private aviation retail, enhancing passenger experience while broadening market reach. Signed by senior executives from both airlines, including Saad Maabad (EgyptAir) and Yasser Saad (Nile Air), the agreement underscores the growing synergy between public and private aviation operators in Egypt and lays the groundwork for future commercial collaborations and joint initiatives.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has partnered with ASKY AIRLINES to promote a data-driven, preventive safety culture in West Africa. During a visit to ASKY’s headquarters in Lomé on June 13, 2025, NSIB Director-General Alex Badeh Jr. stressed the importance of proactive risk identification using data, science, and technology. The partnership seeks to align safety investigations with ICAO standards, enhance joint training, and foster a regional culture of transparency and collaboration. ASKY welcomed the initiative as a step toward setting higher safety benchmarks in African aviation.
The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in partnership with United for Aviation Technology Services, has launched a three-week training program on Aeronautical Surveying and Data Management. The initiative aims to improve Namibia’s aeronautical data systems and align with global standards. NCAA Executive Director Toska Sem emphasized the importance of the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS 84) in ensuring accurate navigation. She urged timely validation and publication of data to prevent safety risks, warning that delays could lead to ICAO scrutiny due to outdated flight procedures.
On June 20, 2025, Zimbabwe’s Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) and Transvaal Africa signed a landmark MoU in Harare to boost agricultural exports through an integrated cargo and cold-chain system. The agreement includes the development of a cargo village at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport for grading, packaging, and storing perishables. It aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and national development strategies. Field visits to Mazowe Citrus Estates and Gokwe’s Village Business Units are planned to prepare rural producers for exports and ensure quality, compliance, and improved market access.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Air Sierra Leone has launched its first-ever direct intercontinental route from Freetown to London, marking a historic milestone for the country’s aviation sector. The service is operated year-round using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 leased from UK-based Ascend Airways, with additional frequencies during peak seasons. This new connection strengthens ties with both the UK and Nigeria and boosts trade, tourism, and diaspora travel. Since its January 2025 launch with flights to Lagos, the airline has announced plans to expand across West Africa with routes to Accra, Monrovia, Abidjan, Dakar, Conakry, and Banjul.
Ethiopian Airlines launched a new route between Addis Ababa and Hyderabad on June 16, 2025, operating three weekly flights. Hyderabad becomes the sixth Indian destination in Ethiopian’s network, joining Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. This route enhances trade and tourism between East Africa and South Asia. With over 50 weekly flights to India, Ethiopian strengthens its role as a continental hub. The expansion supports growing demand in Hyderabad and facilitates trade in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, agriculture, and IT services, reinforcing Ethiopia’s global aviation footprint.
On June 17, 2025, Zambia Airways 2014 resumed flights between Lusaka and Harare, reinforcing regional connectivity. The inaugural flight departed at 06:00 hrs and landed at 07:00 hrs, with regular service scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This route caters to both business and leisure travelers and supports Zambia Airways’ regional ambitions. As a joint venture between the Zambian government and Ethiopian Airlines, the carrier aims to strengthen Southern Africa’s intra-Africa connectivity. The Lusaka–Harare route aligns with SAATM goals and enhances trade and integration within the COMESA-SADC region.
Air Peace Limited is set to begin direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow on October 26, 2025, following UK regulatory approval. This builds on its London Gatwick launch in March 2024. The new schedule includes four weekly flights to Heathrow and three to Gatwick, offering daily service from Abuja. The expansion follows advocacy by Nigeria’s Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and backing from President Bola Tinubu. Air Peace Chairman Dr. Allen Onyema highlighted the airline’s robust safety record and growing international credibility, as it solidifies its place in long-haul intercontinental markets.
Africa World Airlines Limited (AWA) will launch scheduled service to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on July 1, 2025, after a brief delay from the initial June 3 date. AWA currently connects five cities in Ghana—Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, and Wa—as well as regional destinations like Lagos, Abuja, Monrovia, and Freetown. The airline plans further expansion into Côte d’Ivoire and beyond. Founded in 2010 and flying since 2012, AWA is IOSA certified and a full IATA member since 2017. It aspires to be a leading African airline known for safety and service quality.
Air France will increase its Paris–Nairobi service from three to five weekly flights in early 2026 to meet growing demand for travel between Kenya and France. The route is operated using the Airbus A350-900, which offers 16% more seat capacity and 25% better fuel efficiency than older aircraft. The A350 replaced the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner previously used on the route. This expansion, in collaboration with Kenya Airways and KLM under a joint venture, enhances connectivity and sustainability while strengthening Nairobi’s role as a regional aviation hub in East Africa.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited announced the sale of two Dash 8-400 Package Freighter (PF) Conversion Kits to Nairobi-based Advantage Air Travel Limited. The kits will convert passenger aircraft into dedicated freighters, enhancing Advantage Air’s cargo capacity. This investment responds to growing demand for robust, efficient cargo operations across Africa and reinforces De Havilland’s role in supporting regional air freight development. The move positions Advantage Air as a key player in East Africa’s emerging cargo aviation space, with added flexibility to serve remote and underserved destinations.
During the same airshow, Textron Aviation confirmed the sale of two Cessna SkyCourier turboprops to Algeria’s Tassili Travail Aérien – ?????? ????? ?????? (TTA), marking the first SkyCourier sale in Africa and the first for an aeromedical-equipped variant. Deliveries are expected in 2026. Based in Algiers and Hassi Messaoud, TTA—Sonatrach’s aviation subsidiary—will use the aircraft for medevac, cargo, and passenger missions. The SkyCourier’s versatility and rapid reconfiguration capabilities make it well-suited for special operations across Algeria’s vast terrain.
Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its domestic and regional reach with the acquisition of two Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft from De Havilland Canada. Known for their STOL performance, the aircraft will improve access to Ethiopia’s remote regions. This addition aligns with the airline’s strategy to modernize its fleet, boost rural connectivity, and maintain its leadership in African aviation. It also underscores Ethiopian’s commitment to operational flexibility and service to underserved communities.
On June 18, 2025, Airlink announced plans to lease 10 Embraer E195-E2 jets, reinforcing its position as Southern Africa’s leading regional airline. The E195-E2 offers up to 29% fuel savings over older models and increased capacity, supporting Airlink’s goals of sustainability, operational efficiency, and network growth. The aircraft will allow the airline to increase frequency on key routes, launch new destinations, and reduce environmental impact, solidifying its competitiveness in sub-Saharan Africa.
At the Paris Air Show, EGYPTAIR confirmed an additional order for six Airbus A350-900s, bringing its total order to 16. The aircraft offer up to 25% lower fuel consumption and a range of 9,700 nautical miles. Featuring Airbus’s Airspace cabin and SAF compatibility up to 50%, the A350-900 supports EGYPTAIR’s long-haul expansion and Egypt’s sustainability targets. Airbus aims to make the type 100% SAF-capable by 2030, aligning with global decarbonization efforts.
Skyward Airlines has signed an agreement with De Havilland Canada for a refurbished Dash 8-400 turboprop, part of the OEM’s new certified refurbishment program. The acquisition supports Skyward’s fleet expansion and underscores the Dash 8’s popularity in Kenya. The program provides cost-effective, high-performing aircraft to meet regional demand. This move aligns with Skyward’s strategic growth, enhancing its operational resilience and reinforcing its presence in Kenya’s competitive domestic market.
Uganda Airlines has temporarily boosted regional capacity by wet-leasing an Embraer ERJ145LR from ALS Limited, registered 5Y-CIS. This supports high-demand routes such as Juba and Dar es Salaam. The aircraft complements the airline’s CRJ900s and leased Airbus A320 from DAT. Previously operated for International Committee of the Red Cross – ICRC, the ERJ145 offers a flexible short-term solution as Uganda Airlines prepares for fleet expansion with future A320neo deliveries.
TUNISAIR has wet-leased a 20.5-year-old Airbus Aircraft A340-300 from German ACMI operator Universal Sky Carrier to support long-haul operations, particularly to Montreal and Marseille. Registered D-AUSC, the aircraft features 38 business and 215 economy seats. It also supported Hajj charter operations earlier in June, reinforcing Tunisair’s capacity during seasonal demand while sustaining international connectivity.
On June 22, 2025, Egyptian carrier Nesma Airlines took delivery of an 18.2-year-old Airbus A320-214(WL), now registered SU-NMF. The aircraft, leased from Fortress Transportation (FTAI), is expected to strengthen Nesma’s operational capacity. The addition supports the airline’s regional growth and provides greater flexibility in route deployment as it continues to expand domestic and Middle Eastern services.
TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola has received a new Airbus A220-300 (BD-500-1A11), registered D2-TAI. The aircraft is configured with 12 business and 125 economy seats. This delivery is part of TAAG’s ongoing fleet modernization plan, aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, network expansion, and operational efficiency, while positioning the airline as a competitive regional and long-haul operator in the Lusophone aviation corridor.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Burkina Faso has launched Société des Aéroports du Faso (SAFA), a new state-owned company tasked with managing and developing the country’s airports. The reform consolidates former aviation entities MOAD, RACGAE, and DAAN into a single entity to improve efficiency and governance. SAFA’s creation aligns with the government’s infrastructure modernization efforts, including the ongoing development of Ouagadougou-Donsin International Airport, set to replace the existing airport by 2026. As part of broader border control improvements, Burkina Faso also approved a $1.85 million investment in 17 portable scanners to enhance customs security at airport terminals.
Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has launched a large-scale infrastructure and capital investment program across its nine airports to improve efficiency, passenger experience, and long-term capacity. Major projects include the refurbishment of OR Tambo International’s ablution facilities, a new 20-inch jet fuel feeder line, backup generator replacements, and improvements to sewerage, fire safety, and weather systems. Terminal upgrades involve HVAC systems, roofing, and airside infrastructure. Most works are scheduled for completion between 2025 and 2027. CEO Mpumi Mpofu emphasized that the initiative signals Acsa’s post-COVID financial recovery and long-term reinvestment strategy.
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, Chad’s Civil Aviation Authority (ADAC) signed a strategic agreement with France’s DGAC in support of its national Vision REACT reform agenda. The partnership focuses on aviation safety oversight, airport security, personnel training, and certifying N’Djamena International Airport by 2026. This collaboration reflects Chad’s commitment to aligning with global aviation standards, improving operational performance, and increasing connectivity. The agreement is seen as a turning point for the country’s aviation modernization drive and regional aviation safety leadership.
Egypt will offer its first airports for private operation by the end of 2025 as part of a broader privatization strategy. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced that Hurghada Airport will be the first to go to tender, with support from the IFC – International Finance Corporation. This marks the first time Egypt will entrust airport management to private firms. A global campaign will promote the opportunity, aiming to attract experienced operators, boost tourism, and support wider economic growth through improved infrastructure and service delivery.
Eldoret International Airport in western Kenya is set for a 600-meter runway extension, bringing its total length to 4.1 kilometers. The upgrade will accommodate wide-body freighters with payloads of up to 100 tonnes, more than doubling current limits. It aims to reduce logistics costs, eliminate reliance on road transport to Nairobi, and provide direct global market access for fresh produce exporters. The project is part of a national strategy to position Eldoret as a logistics hub, supported by upcoming investments in cargo terminals, cold storage, and agro-processing infrastructure.
Ethiopian Airlines has opened a new customer service office in Beijing, strengthening its presence in China—one of its key international markets. Located at World Wealth Tower in Chaoyang District, the office will handle ticketing, customer support, and corporate engagements. This strategic move deepens the airline’s China–Africa commercial ties and enhances service accessibility for passengers. The initiative reflects Ethiopian’s continued investment in global expansion, reinforcing its status as Africa’s leading carrier with one of the continent’s strongest intercontinental networks.
Mozambique’s airport operator, Aeroportos de Moçambique, E.P. (AdM), reported losses of MZN 1.53 billion (€20.8 million) in 2024, up 80.3% from the previous year. The year saw a 4.16% rise in passenger traffic and a 1.5% increase in aircraft movements, driven by national carrier LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES and international airlines such as Qatar Airways and Airlink. Despite this growth, AdM continues to face financial pressures, partly due to unrest following post-election protests. Total revenue grew 6% to MZN 3.02 billion (€41 million), with passenger fees accounting for 43%, yet the financial outlook remains challenging.
As of May 2025, Air Namibia’s liquidation has generated N$74.4 million (??US$4 million) in recoveries, but over 600 former employees remain unpaid, with severance totaling N$105 million (??US$5.6 million). Liquidators David Bruni and Ian McLaren received N$16 million (??US$860,000) in fees up to September 2024. Foreign-held assets remain stuck: N$27 million in Zimbabwe, N$1.5 million in Angola, and N$3.9 million in SITA shares. namibia airports company is owed N$708 million (??US$38 million), while NamRA’s N$289.8 million (??US$15.5 million) debt has been cleared. The Windhoek office has a pending N$52 million sale offer.
Mango Airlines is nearing a sale agreement with an undisclosed investor, according to Business Rescue Practitioner Sipho Sono. The low-cost carrier, which suspended operations in July 2021, is currently verifying the value of unused tickets issued prior to its grounding. South African Airways (SAA) clarified that it has no involvement in Mango’s financial restructuring or refund process and directed passengers to Mango’s official channels. SAA reaffirmed its focus on its own operations, distancing itself from Mango’s ongoing business rescue and potential future direction.
VISA/Passports/Travel.
An internal U.S. State Department cable reveals that President Donald Trump’s administration is considering a major expansion of its travel ban, potentially targeting up to 36 countries, many of them in Africa, over issues related to passport security, identity verification, and cooperation on deportations. African countries at risk of a full or partial travel ban—if they don’t comply with U.S. demands within 60 days—include: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. These proposed bans follow earlier full bans on Chad, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan, and partial restrictions on Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo. The memo, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, warns that non-compliant countries could face bans as early as August 2025.
Ecuador has cancelled visa-free airport transit privileges for citizens of 45 countries, effective immediately, requiring them to obtain a Transit Visa (Visa de Transeúnte) even if they remain in the international zone of Ecuadorian airports. The policy impacts travellers making stopovers en route to destinations in the Americas and beyond. Affected countries include numerous African nations such as Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan, Cameroon, DRC, and Kenya, among others, as well as countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Ecuadorian authorities cite security concerns and irregular migration as the reasons for this stricter regulation, advising affected travellers to consult Ecuadorian embassies before making travel plans.
Mauritius will introduce a €3 (approx. R62) nightly tourist tax starting October 1, 2025, applicable to all guests aged 12 and above staying in hotels, guesthouses, tourist residences, or domaines. The new levy, announced in the 2025/26 national budget, is expected to generate MUR 2 billion (approx. R790 million) annually based on 2023 visitor figures. Collected by accommodation providers and remitted to the Mauritius Revenue Authority, the tax aims to strengthen tourism revenue and aligns with global trends in promoting sustainable tourism and infrastructure development through visitor contributions.
Morocco has inaugurated a new consulate general in Miami, expanding its diplomatic footprint to serve Moroccan nationals across nearly 20 U.S. southern states. The June 16, 2025 ceremony was attended by U.S. officials and members of the Moroccan diaspora. Ambassador Youssef Amrani described the consulate as a key step in King Mohammed VI’s broader strategy to improve services for Moroccans abroad. The Miami office will act as both an administrative hub and a community bridge, reflecting Morocco’s commitment to diaspora engagement and modernization of consular services worldwide.
Mainland Tanzania will soon introduce mandatory travel insurance for all foreign visitors, mirroring Zanzibar’s current model. Proposed in the 2025–2026 budget, the new policy—excluding EAC and SADC citizens—requires a $44 fee for coverage up to 92 days. Insurance will include medical emergencies, repatriation, accidents, and baggage protection. The initiative will be implemented through a public-private partnership led by the National Insurance Corporation. Meanwhile, visa processing delays continue due to system upgrades and increased demand, prompting officials to advise early online applications or use of visa-on-arrival options where available.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Ethiopian Airlines was once again named Best Airline in Africa at the 2025 Skytrax The World Airline Awards —its eighth consecutive win—during a ceremony held at the International Paris Air Show. The carrier also earned awards for Best Economy Class, Best Business Class, and Best Business Class Onboard Catering in Africa, underscoring its service excellence and passenger loyalty. Ethiopian ranked 38th globally, with other African carriers in the Top 100 including Air Mauritius (63rd), RwandAir Ltd (64th), South African Airways (67th), EGYPTAIR (68th), Royal Air Maroc (70th), and Kenya Airways (89th).
In the Skytrax Special Category Awards – Africa, RwandAir Ltd was named Best Regional Airline, FlySafair took Best Low-Cost Airline, EGYPTAIR earned Best Airline Staff, and Airlink was recognized as Africa’s Cleanest Airline—highlighting the continent’s growing competitiveness in global aviation rankings.
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, Air Sénégal S.A officially joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the 15th new member this year. With this move, the airline gains access to a global network of over 350 airlines across 120 countries, representing 83% of global air traffic. The announcement comes amid legal tensions with lessor Carlyle Aviation Partners, which is seeking repossession of four aircraft over unpaid lease dues.
RwandAir Ltd is under active consideration for potential membership in the oneworld Alliance, with strong backing from Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker. Citing close ties between the two carriers and their governments, Al Baker proposed RwandAir could join as either a full member or a Oneworld Connect partner. He also suggested establishing a training facility in Rwanda to boost aviation skills in the region. If confirmed, RwandAir’s inclusion would bolster Oneworld’s limited African footprint and strengthen its competitive positioning on the continent.
Lawsuits.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has set October 22, 2025, to hear a lawsuit filed by security expert Alhaji Ahmed Rabiu against Virgin Atlantic over the alleged loss of his luggage on a flight from London to Lagos on September 24, 2024. Rabiu is seeking $4,000 in compensation for the lost items and an additional ?20 million (approx. $13,333 USD) in damages for emotional distress and legal fees—bringing the total claim to around $17,333 USD. The hearing was delayed after Virgin Atlantic failed to file its defence on time. The airline denies liability, citing incomplete details in Rabiu’s loss report and invoking protection under the Montreal Convention 1999, as adopted in Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Act, 2023.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On Wednesday, 18 June 2025, at approximately 13:20 local time, a Piper PA-34-200T Seneca II aircraft operated by Fly Zanzibar Company Ltd. (registration 5H-MZB) experienced a nose gear malfunction, resulting in a nose-down emergency landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar, Tanzania. The aircraft was on a ferry/positioning flight from Dar es Salaam and had two occupants, neither of whom was injured. The aircraft sustained minor damage. In anticipation of the landing, fire crews deployed foam on the initial section of Runway 18 to mitigate fire risk.
On the same day, a Beechcraft 200 Super King Air operated by TAB Air Charters (registration ZS-TAE) made a forced landing at Kanyemba Airstrip in Mbire, Zimbabwe, during a charter flight from Harare’s Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to Kafuko Safaris. All 10 occupants survived without injury, although the aircraft sustained significant structural damage. The incident occurred during the landing phase and is classified as a non-scheduled passenger air taxi accident. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.
In other news:
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, Aviation Sans Frontières and Windracers unveiled a humanitarian drone logistics initiative aimed at serving remote African communities lacking reliable access to medical supplies. The project deploys ULTRA MK2 drones, which can carry up to 150 kg over 1,000 km, equipped with autonomous navigation and payload-drop capabilities for rugged, hard-to-reach terrain. Pilot operations have begun in Malawi, with upcoming tests for cold chain deliveries, including vaccines. The initiative aims to reduce logistics costs—currently consuming up to 80% of aid budgets—while supporting local workforce training and regulatory harmonization for sustainable deployment across the continent.
Kenyan charter airline Air Bonanza Express, through a lease agreement with Russian operator Aviacon Zitotrans, has repositioned its Ilyushin Il-76 freighter to operate out of N’Djamena (Chad) and Abidjan (Ivory Coast). This strategic move addresses growing demand for oversized and heavy-lift cargo in Central and West Africa, driven by United Nations peacekeeping withdrawals, infrastructure expansion, and rising activity in oil, gas, mining, and humanitarian sectors. With few large freighters available regionally, Air Bonanza Express is seizing the opportunity to fill a critical freight capacity gap, bolstering regional logistics and supply chain resilience.
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