(Posted 19th August 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trails Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech
Introduction.
Khartoum International Airport is set to reopen in October 2025, following its closure since the April 2023 conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which devastated infrastructure and halted commercial operations. Renovations and repairs, including runways, taxiways, power networks, and terminals, are nearing 85% completion, enabling the airport to resume domestic, international, and humanitarian flights. The reopening, supported by political stabilization and security improvements, is expected to revitalize Sudan’s tourism, trade, and regional connectivity, allowing airlines to resume operations. The upgraded facilities will also facilitate humanitarian aid, support economic recovery, and reconnect the country to global markets, positioning Khartoum International as a vital gateway for travel, commerce, and investment.
Conferences & Events.
The Third International Civil Aviation Organization Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit (NGAP/3) was held from 12 to 14 August 2025 at the Durban International Conference Centre in Durban, South Africa, co-hosted by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) under the Department of Transport. The summit’s theme, “The Flight Plan for Future Aviation Talent: Innovate, Educate, Inspire – Building the Workforce for the Skies Ahead,” emphasized the importance of innovation, education, and inspiration in developing a skilled and resilient aviation workforce. The event brought together stakeholders from governments, industry, education, and youth organizations to address the global shortage of aviation professionals, focusing on strategies for attracting, educating, and retaining the next generation of talent with particular attention to inclusivity and sustainability.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
On August 15, 2025, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) granted approval for Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport in Ilisan-Iperu, Ogun State, to begin commercial flight operations, issuing an Interim Aerodrome Operational Permit under Part 12.15.17 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations. Following the approval, a major international airline is expected to operate two weekly cargo flights from London, while passenger services will start with direct routes to Abuja and Port Harcourt. The airport will also serve as an alternate to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The move is anticipated to boost trade, investment, and tourism in Ogun State, reflecting the high-quality facilities noted by regulatory agencies during inspections last December.
The Nigeria Federal Government officially issued the Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP) to AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED (ATCL), enabling the airline to launch direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos. The permit was handed over at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja, with officials emphasizing that it would enhance operational efficiency, aviation safety, and bilateral ties between Nigeria and Tanzania, while aligning operations with global standards. Nigerian authorities, including the NCAA, highlighted ATCL’s potential to boost connectivity, trade, and regional integration, with plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding and require passenger data uploads to the AVITECH portal. Tanzanian officials expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s cooperation, confirmed that regulatory approvals had been issued, and requested office space and residence permits for ATCL staff.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
According to AeroTrail’s airline tracking for July 2025, Cairo International Airport emerged as Africa’s busiest airport in terms of available airline seats, handling approximately 3,267,574 seats. It was followed by Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia with an estimated 2,073,866 seats, and Johannesburg OR Tambo International in South Africa with around 2,062,992 seats. Casablanca Mohammed V International in Morocco ranked fourth with 1,409,001 seats, while Algiers Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algeria rounded out the top five with 1,123,281 seats.
The continent’s top route in July was the intercontinental connection between Cairo (CAI) and Jeddah (JED), offering approximately 424,909 seats. This was followed by South Africa’s domestic route linking Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT) with 381,297 seats, and Johannesburg (JNB) to/from Durban (DUR) with 310,180 seats. Cairo (CAI) to/from Riyadh ranked fourth with about 306,000 seats, while the intercontinental route connecting Algiers (ALG) and Paris (CDG) closed the top five with 170,311 available airline seats in July 2025.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
On Monday, August 11, 2025, Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire held the third round of political consultations in Cairo, where they signed a visa waiver agreement for official passport holders and agreed to deepen cooperation across political, economic, and security sectors. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Ivorian counterpart Léon Kacou Adom reviewed opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, health, civil aviation, and education, while also affirming joint efforts in counter-terrorism and regional stability, particularly in West Africa and the Sahel. Both sides highlighted the growing momentum in bilateral relations, pledged to strengthen coordination in regional and international forums, and confirmed that the fourth round of consultations will take place in Abidjan in 2026.
Ethiopian Airlines, has appointed Southeast Asia-based PR firm Ellerton & Co. Public Relations, as its agency of record for Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand to strengthen its brand presence across the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership will focus on humanising the airline’s image, showcasing Ethiopia’s culture, heritage, and hospitality alongside its role as a gateway to Africa. Ethiopian Airlines, celebrated for its award-winning service, young fleet, and sustainable aviation initiatives, aims to connect more travellers from Asia-Pacific to Africa while sharing stories of care and compassion that define its brand.
The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard), in partnership with ValueJetairline, recently organized a Familiarisation Tour (FAM-Trip) to showcase The Gambia as a prime regional destination for West African travellers. The tour brought together Nigerian and Gambian influencers, business leaders, travel writers, and actors, who explored key attractions such as the Katchikally Crocodile Pool, Arch 22, Monkey Park, ABCA’s Creek Lodge, and local nightlife spots, while also enjoying hospitality at Bakadaji Hotel and Kunta Kinteh Beach Complex. By sharing their experiences online, participants helped boost The Gambia’s visibility as the “Smiling Coast of Africa.”
ACCORD UNIVERSITY and Mogadishu Aviation College have entered a landmark partnership to deliver advanced aviation training programs in Somalia. Combining Accord University’s academic research and Mogadishu Aviation College’s technical expertise, the collaboration will offer dual-certification programs meeting international standards, including ICAO requirements. Launching in January 2026, the programs include a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management, Commercial Pilot License courses, Aircraft Maintenance Engineering diplomas, and Air Traffic Control certifications. The partnership also features scholarships for disadvantaged students, faculty development initiatives, and joint research projects, aiming to address critical skill gaps, enhance employment opportunities for Somali youth, and support the growth of Somalia’s aviation sector and broader economic development.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Dubai-based cargo airline SolitAir Holding launched weekly cargo flights between Zanzibar and Dubai on August 8, 2025, using a Boeing 737-800 BCF, aimed at boosting trade in seafood and other goods. The service is expected to increase in frequency as demand grows. SolitAir’s network already spans Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, and the airline plans to expand its fleet to 20 freighters by 2027 to strengthen connectivity and support global trade.
On August 14, 2025, Air Algérie resumed direct flights between Algiers and Beirut with two weekly services, marking its first return to Lebanon in years and fulfilling a pledge by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun during his recent visit to Algiers. The inaugural flight was received at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport by senior Lebanese and Algerian officials, including Information Minister Paul Morcos, MP Qassem Hachem, Algerian Ambassador Kamal Bou Shama, and Civil Aviation Director General Amin Jaber. This milestone follows an earlier attempt to restart services on June 21, 2023, after flights were suspended in 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and builds on a 1970 bilateral air services agreement, underscoring the long-standing historical and human ties between the two nations.
On August 14, 2025, Petroleum Air Services launched a weekly CRJ900 charter flight between Cairo and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, scheduled to run until mid-September on behalf of Tishoury Tours Eg. The charter, which complements the operator’s Podgorica service, is primarily tailored for Egyptian tourists, with tickets available only through tour packages from Tishoury Tours. Diplomats from both countries emphasized the route’s potential to significantly boost summer tourism, with Bosnia’s Ambassador to Egypt, Sabit Subaši?, stressing the need to eventually upgrade it into a scheduled service, a prospect already under discussion with Egypt’s Tourism Minister.
Mwant Jet, a privately-owned Congolese airline, resumed domestic services on 16 August 2025 after more than two years of inactivity, following the recovery of its Air Operator Certificate in May. The carrier, which suspended operations in early 2023 due to financial troubles, legal disputes, and ownership conflicts, returns with its fleet of Embraer ERJ145s to reconnect underserved regions of the DRC, where poor road infrastructure makes air travel essential. Its comeback is expected to boost domestic connectivity, support tourism to attractions like Virunga National Park and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, and stimulate trade and investment by linking provincial towns with Kinshasa and regional markets. While regulatory hurdles have been cleared, the airline still faces financial and operational challenges, as well as competition from new entrants like Air Congo.
AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED will launch direct flights between Nairobi and Zanzibar on August 18, 2025, boosting regional connectivity and easing travel between the two East African hubs. The service will operate three times a week from Nairobi (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) and twice weekly from Zanzibar (Tuesdays and Thursdays), offering faster, nonstop connections for both business and leisure travelers. The new route is expected to enhance tourism—particularly for Kenyan holidaymakers heading to Zanzibar’s beaches and heritage sites—while strengthening trade and economic ties. Industry stakeholders say the flights will stimulate tourism, business collaboration, and regional integration, further positioning aviation as a key driver of East Africa’s growth.
Kenya Airways has revised its Nairobi–Amsterdam Schiphol schedule for the period September 1 to October 25, 2025, introducing a mix of nonstop and triangular flights via Paris-Charles de Gaulle. Out of the seven weekly services, five will remain nonstop (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays), departing Nairobi at 08h40 and landing in Amsterdam at 16h40, with return departures at 20h35, arriving back in Nairobi at 06h10 the following day. The remaining two weekly flights (Mondays and Wednesdays) will follow a triangular routing via Paris-CDG, departing Nairobi at 08h30, arriving in Amsterdam at 18h55, and returning at 20h35 with the same next-day arrival time in Nairobi. This adjustment allows Kenya Airways to balance demand while maintaining daily connectivity to Amsterdam, one of its key European gateways.
Shanghai Airlines, a subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines Global, will launch a direct weekly service between Shanghai and Casablanca starting September 25, 2025, using a Boeing 787 Dreamliner equipped with high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi. The flight, FM881/882, will depart Shanghai Pudong at 00:50 Beijing time and arrive in Casablanca at 08:20 local time, with the return departing Casablanca at 10:20 and arriving in Shanghai at 06:35 the next day, cutting travel time between China and Morocco. The airline will maintain its existing Shanghai–Marseille–Casablanca service on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, giving a total of four weekly flights. Passengers booking between August 15 and 31 via the China Eastern app will receive discount vouchers.
Emirates has announced plans to launch its first nonstop service to Libreville, Gabon, in December 2025, creating the inaugural direct link between Gabon, the Middle East, and Asia. The agreement, finalized in August 7, 2025 following talks with Gabon’s Civil Aviation Authority, is expected to strengthen trade, tourism, and connectivity across Central Africa, with projections of handling nearly 95,500 additional passengers annually. It will boost both eco-tourism—given Gabon’s rich biodiversity and national parks—and business travel, as the country diversifies beyond oil and mining into tourism and trade. The route will also facilitate cargo flows, particularly exports like crude oil and manganese to Asian markets via Dubai, while positioning Libreville as a regional hub.
Starting December 1, 2025 RwandAir Ltd will operate a triangular route connecting Kigali, Zanzibar, and Mombasa with four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Flights depart Kigali at 09:30, arrive in Zanzibar at 13:00, then continue to Mombasa, arriving at 14:35. The return leg departs Mombasa at 17:00, stops in Zanzibar at 17:55, and reaches Kigali at 20:10. The schedule aligns with RwandAir’s early-morning Johannesburg–Kigali service, facilitating seamless connections for regional travelers.
Saudi low-cost carrier flynas is set to launch direct flights between Riyadh and Nairobi on October 2, 2025, operating three weekly services with its fuel-efficient Airbus Aircraft A320neo. The flights will depart Riyadh at 22:00, arriving in Nairobi at 03:20 the following day, with return flights leaving Nairobi at 04:10 and landing in Riyadh at 09:15. Currently, the only Saudi–Kenya connection is via Jeddah operated by SAUDI AIRLINES, giving flynas a unique opportunity to offer a more direct and potentially more affordable option between the two capitals. This expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and enhance international connectivity, with a target of reaching 165 international destinations by 2030.
Virgin Atlantic has announced an extended Cape Town service running from 13 October 2025 to 19 April 2026, with a special Easter peak extension from 29 March to 19 April 2026 featuring daily flights. The airline has optimized overnight schedules from 26 October 2025 to 28 March 2026, aligning with Johannesburg services to improve passenger comfort and connections. Flights VS 478 (London Heathrow–Cape Town) and VS 479 (Cape Town–Heathrow) will be operated on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with Upper, Premium, and Economy cabins, in-seat entertainment, and Wi-Fi. Cape Town passengers will also enjoy seamless same-day connections via Heathrow to all Virgin Atlantic US destinations, enhancing travel between South Africa, the UK, and the United States.
Syrian Arab Airlines commenced non-scheduled charter flights between Tripoli, Libya, and Damascus, Syria, on Sunday, August 17, 2025. These flights operate from Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli to Damascus International Airport, addressing travel needs of Syrian nationals residing in Libya. The service is scheduled to continue until regular flight arrangements are established. Currently, only one-way flights from Tripoli to Damascus are available, with no return flights offered at this time. This initiative follows requests from the Syrian expatriate community in Libya and aims to facilitate travel between the two nations until full services resume
Proflight Zambia will launch a new thrice-weekly service connecting Lusaka and Windhoek via Livingstone, starting March 3, 2026, operating on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The route aims to boost tourism, trade, and investment between Zambia and Namibia, two rapidly growing Southern African economies, while providing convenient access to key destinations such as Livingstone and Victoria Falls. Lusaka is one of Windhoek’s largest African origin-destination markets, with over 10,000 two-way international passengers in 2024. The service is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, foster economic partnerships, and support Air Connect Namibia’s strategy of promoting the country as a regional aviation hub, with backing from public and private stakeholders including the namibia airports company, Namibia Tourism Board (NTB), and Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB).
Uganda Airlines is set to commence domestic flights in the 2026/2027 financial year, CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki confirmed during a parliamentary hearing on August 14, 2025. The move aims to improve connectivity and ease pressure on deteriorating upcountry routes, such as the Pakwach-Karuma section, and is supported by lawmakers advocating for regional air travel, including Nyakisharara airstrip. Uganda currently has 47 airstrips, six paved and 42 unpaved, with 13 managed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority. The expansion into domestic services is expected to enhance trade, passenger movement, and regional economic integration.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
On Tuesday, August 13, 2025, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, commissioned two new CALLY AIR aircraft at Margaret Ekpo International Airport, boosting the state’s fleet from two to four, with three more expected soon. Governor Bassey Otu described the milestone as part of efforts to position Cross River as an aviation hub for Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea, while also advancing tourism, industrialisation, and rural development.
LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES has acquired its first aircraft in 18 years, a Bombardier Q400 with 74-passenger capacity, marking a key milestone in the airline’s restructuring under a new management committee led by Dane Kondic. The aircraft, maintained in Addis Ababa for four months, was officially transferred to LAM last Monday and was expected to arrive in Maputo three days later on Thursday. LAM, facing years of operational challenges due to a small fleet and maintenance issues, has shifted focus to domestic flights while undergoing major restructuring, including new shareholders such as Cahora Bassa Hydroelectric, Mozambique Ports and Railways, and EMOSE. Plans are underway to purchase up to five Boeing 737-700 aircraft and lease additional planes to stabilize operations, as the airline currently serves an average of 915 passengers daily across domestic and regional routes.
Air Peace Limited has strengthened its fleet with the addition of an Embraer ERJ-190AR (registered 5N-CER). The 12.6-year-old aircraft, configured with 12 business and 84 economy seats, was previously operated by Kenya Airways since its delivery in February 2013. It had been in storage at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport since February 2025 before being ferried to Lagos on 6 August 2025. Additionally, the airline is set to receive a 19-year-old Boeing 737-700 from AerCap, formerly operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas. Air Peace has prior experience with this aircraft type, having operated a similar 737-700 under an ACMI lease with Mongolian carrier Eznis Airways until March this year.
Air Mauritius is currently in discussions to renegotiate its agreement for the acquisition of three Airbus A350 aircraft, originally confirmed at the 2023 International Paris Air Show. The airline had planned to expand its long-haul fleet to enhance connectivity to Europe and South Asia. However, the delivery of these aircraft has been delayed, and Air Mauritius is now exploring options to adjust the terms of the deal to better align with its current operational and financial circumstances. This move reflects broader challenges in the aviation industry, where airlines are reassessing fleet expansion plans in response to evolving market dynamics.
Air Côte d’Ivoire is set to receive its first Airbus A330-900neo, marking its entry into widebody operations since the airline’s founding in 2012. The aircraft, which completed its maiden flight from Toulouse on August 4, 2025, is the first of two ordered in 2022 after delays pushed back its planned 2024 delivery. Configured with the Airbus Airspace cabin for 242 passengers across four classes, the jet will debut on the flagship Abidjan–Paris route, with future long-haul ambitions to New York, Brussels, and London. Currently operating a fleet of 12 narrowbodies, Air Côte d’Ivoire sees the A330-900neo as central to its network expansion, complementing its codeshare with Ethiopian Airlines, which already links Abidjan to New York via Addis Ababa under Fifth Freedom rights.
Uganda Airlines has announced plans to retire its four Bombardier CRJ 900 regional jets due to difficulties in sourcing spare parts, following Bombardier’s exit from commercial aircraft production after selling its division to Mitsubishi. The CRJs, which have been key for regional routes since the airline’s relaunch, face costly and increasingly complex maintenance, prompting the airline to consider replacement aircraft that are easier to service. CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki disclosed this during a parliamentary COSASE meeting, which also reviewed the airline’s 2023/24 financials, revealing a loss of UGX 237.8 billion (~USD 63 million).
Five South African Army Atlas Oryx helicopters have been abandoned at a base in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with no timeline set for their repatriation. The aircraft, which have been left to deteriorate, include two that require engine replacements before they can return to service. State-owned defence company Denel, responsible for their maintenance, has indicated that no action will be taken until payment arrangements are made, raising concerns about the operational readiness of South Africa’s peacekeeping and military aviation capabilities.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
On August 11, 2025, Egypt’s Civil Aviation Minister Sameh Hefny met with executives from Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC) to explore international cooperation in airport development and operations. The talks focused on Egypt’s plan to open 11 airports to private sector management, starting with Hurghada International Airport by year-end, in collaboration with the IFC – International Finance Corporation. IIAC highlighted its experience managing over 30 airports globally, including Seoul’s Incheon and Istanbul, and expressed readiness to provide consultancy and investment support. Minister Hefny stressed Egypt’s goal of attracting global investors, modernising airport infrastructure, and positioning the country as a regional aviation hub in line with growing travel and tourism demand.
A Turkish company TAV delegation, alongside Libya’s Development Fund committee, visited Kufra International Airport on Sunday to assess facilities for a major modernization project aimed at meeting international standards. The team inspected runways, terminals, navigation systems, and safety equipment, identifying infrastructure gaps and expansion needs. According to the airport’s media office, work will begin once technical studies and designs are finalized, with the project implemented in phases to avoid service disruptions. The initiative is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Kufra Airport’s role as a key hub for southern Libya, enhancing connectivity, cargo capacity, economic activity, and local job creation.
Air Seychelles has strengthened its customs compliance by integrating UAE customs pre-arrival filing into its Traxon Global Customs (TGC) service and implementing Traxon Global Security (TGS) for pre-load filings. This enables smoother and more secure cargo operations into the UAE while allowing the airline to adapt quickly to new country-specific customs requirements without complex system changes. TGC facilitates information exchange with over 65 customs authorities worldwide, while TGS streamlines pre-loading consignment data, translating security event codes into actionable status information.
The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) has launched an international tender under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model for the rehabilitation, development, and operation of five domestic airports, including Monrovia’s James Spriggs Payne Airport. The selected private partner will invest in and modernize airport infrastructure, operate the facilities over a 10-year period, and establish an airline to improve national and regional connectivity. The project also covers Roberts International Airport and airstrips in Foya, Greenville, and Harper, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and stimulate economic growth. Interested bidders must submit proposals by September 12, 2025, meeting strict technical, financial, and experience requirements.
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has pledged up to US$500 million to support the construction of Ethiopia’s new greenfield airport in Bishoftu/Abusera, set to be Africa’s largest when completed in 2029. Following the signing of a Letter of Intent in March 2025, AfDB was appointed as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger (IMLA) for the project, committing a $500 million loan and leading efforts to raise the remaining financing. The US$10 billion project, designed and overseen by Ethiopian Airlines, will feature four runways and an initial capacity of 60 million passengers annually, expandable to 110 million, positioning it among the world’s top global hubs. Ethiopian Airlines will contribute 20% (US$2 billion), while AfDB is spearheading efforts to mobilize an additional US$7.8 billion from creditors. The mega airport will complement Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport (which will retain domestic operations) and anchor an aerotropolis expected to boost intra-African trade, tourism, regional integration, and logistics while creating tens of thousands of jobs.
Kenya’s Treasury has come under fire after confirming it used Ksh 19.7 billion (US$152.5 million) from the government’s emergency funds in January to settle a defaulted Kenya Airways loan, guaranteed in 2017. The money was distributed to eight banks, including I&M Bank, KCB, and DTB, following a September 2024 settlement after KQ failed to meet its repayment obligations, having only cleared a third of the US$225 million borrowed. Lawmakers, led by Senator Okiya Omtatah, accused the government of breaching the Public Finance Management Act, while Treasury CS John Mbadi defended the move, saying the government only became aware of the default in September 2024 and acted to honour its guarantee.
Air Botswana is facing deepening financial strain as reduced travel by government agencies, parastatals, and private companies under austerity measures has slashed passenger numbers and revenues, Transport Minister Noah Salakae told Parliament. The national carrier, which has long struggled with losses, cash flow shortages, and fleet maintenance challenges, has relied on repeated government bailouts—most recently over P120 million (?USD 9 million) for 2024–2025—to stay afloat. Despite adding Embraer jets in 2024, technical setbacks, grounded aircraft, and deferred staff salaries have worsened its woes.
LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES has been fined 11,109,738.05 meticais (approximately US$173,698) by Mozambique’s Competition Regulatory Authority (ARC) for imposing an illegal surcharge on domestic flights and obstructing an official investigation. The surcharge, intended to offset international fuel price fluctuations, had been banned by the government in 2021 and in some cases amounted to 60% of ticket prices. ARC cited LAM for abusing its dominant market position and financially disadvantaging passengers, as well as failing to provide requested documents. The fine includes 8,332,303.54 meticais (approximately US$130,214) for the surcharge violation and 2,777,434.51 meticais (approximately US$43,484) for non-cooperation. LAM must remove the surcharge within two months, and the case has been referred to the Attorney General’s Office for possible further action.
VISA/Passports/Consulates/Travel.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has rejected Kenya’s appointment of a Consul General to Goma, asserting that Nairobi violated international law and diplomatic protocol by failing to seek approval from Kinshasa—a requirement under the Vienna Convention. The decision is seen as particularly problematic given that Goma is currently under the control of the alleged Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, and Congo’s government warned such a move might inadvertently legitimize their occupation. This incident further strains bilateral relations and complicates regional peacemaking efforts amid ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
People/Appointments.
On August 8, 2025, South Africa‘s Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy, announced the appointment of a new permanent board for South African Airways (SAA), the first since December 2020. The board is chaired by Sedzani Mudau CA(SA),MBA, Cert.Dir., a seasoned public sector executive with extensive governance and leadership experience. This appointment follows the completion of the airline’s business rescue process in April 2021 and is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilize and revitalize the national carrier. The board’s mandate includes overseeing SAA’s turnaround strategy, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring financial sustainability, marking a key step toward restoring confidence in the airline and positioning it for future growth in the competitive aviation industry.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew has extended his tenure by an additional year at the request of the Ethiopian government, pushing his retirement to 2026. Appointed in March 2022 after serving as CEO of ASKY AIRLINES and holding senior roles at Ethiopian, Tasew has overseen record financial growth, network expansion, and the launch of Africa’s most ambitious airport project in Bishoftu. His leadership has been pivotal in advancing the airline’s Vision 2040 strategy, which focuses on global competitiveness, infrastructure development, and human capital investment. The extension ensures continuity and stability during this transformative period, reinforcing the government’s confidence in his stewardship of Africa’s largest and most profitable carrier.
João De Abreu has been dismissed as Chairman of the Civil Aviation Institute of Mozambique (IACM). His removal occurred on August 13, 2025, the same day he appeared on STV to discuss the controversy surrounding allegedly illegal surcharges imposed by Mozambique Airlines (LAM). During the interview, Abreu denied any involvement by the IACM in setting LAM ticket prices. Prior to his dismissal, Abreu had submitted a request for resignation on August 12, citing health issues. The Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, signed the dismissal order the following day. However, such a decision typically requires approval by the Council of Ministers, and it is expected to be reviewed in the next Cabinet session. Abreu’s team had previously reported the alleged fare irregularities to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics and the Competition Regulatory Authority (ARC).
Cairo Airport Company Chairman Magdy Ishak honored Mervat Soliman, former Head of the Financial Sector at both Cairo Airport Company and the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, on the occasion of her retirement. At a farewell ceremony attended by company leaders, colleagues, and friends, Ishak praised Soliman’s decades of service, highlighting her vital role in strengthening the company’s financial stability and achievements, and expressing deep gratitude for her dedication and lasting impact.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
The Travellers Award 2024/2025, set for September 14 in Lagos, will celebrate outstanding contributions in Nigeria’s travel, tourism, aviation, and hospitality industries. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo will be honoured as Aviation Man of the Year for key sector reforms, while Ekiti Governor Abiodun Oyebanji will be recognised as Tourism Governor of the Year for driving tourism development. Other awardees include ValueJet CEO Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi (Travel Personality of the Year), Amb. Wanle Akinboboye (Tourism Personality of the Year), and Karl Hala of Lagos Continental Hotel (Hotel Manager of the Year). Corporate winners include Ibom Air (Best Nigerian Airline), Qatar Airways (International Airline of the Year), Ethiopian Airlines (African Airline of the Year and African Cargo Airline of the Year), and Turkish Airlines (International Cargo Airline of the Year).
Abdelhamid Addou, Chairman and CEO of Royal Air Maroc (RAM) since 2016, has been recognized by Forbes Middle East, ranking 45th among the “Middle East’s Top 100 Travel and Tourism Leaders.” This accolade highlights his achievements in expanding RAM’s international partnerships, increasing seat capacity, and establishing the airline as a key gateway between Africa and the world. Appointed by King Mohammed VI, Addou has spearheaded an ambitious growth strategy emphasizing fleet modernization, stronger global alliances, and enhanced competitiveness. Other African leaders featured on the list include Abdel El Fakir, CEO of Moroccan Airports Authority (ONDA) at 37, Egyptair Holding Company Chairman Ahmed Adel at 41, and Air Cairo CEO Ahmed Shanan at 74.
Lawsuits/Investigations.
Portuguese carrier euroAtlantic Airways (EAA), majority shareholder and manager of STP Airways, has strongly rejected claims by São Tomé and Príncipe’s Infrastructure Minister, Osvaldo Abreu, that a memorandum was signed allowing Equatorial Guinea’s Ceiba Intercontinental to operate flights between São Tomé and Portugal. EAA stated the alleged agreement, reportedly signed in Malabo, has no legal validity as it was never presented to STP Airways’ shareholders or approved by its executive management. The company denounced the announcement as false and damaging, warning it undermines market confidence and threatens its brand reputation, and vowed to seek substantial compensation through international courts for the harm caused to tour operators, consumers, and STP Airways’ image.
Dane Kondi?, chairman of LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES, announced that the airline will appeal the over 11 million meticais (?$170,000) fine imposed by Mozambique’s Competition Regulatory Authority (ARC) for illegal surcharges and obstruction of an investigation. Kondi? stressed that the penalties relate to actions by previous management and that the current administration, in office for about three months, was not responsible. He highlighted LAM’s operational disadvantages, noting the airline currently operates only four rented aircraft compared to competitors like South African carriers. Kondi? also revealed that LAM will receive its first of eight new aircraft last Thursday, part of a broader fleet expansion and modernization effort to restructure the national carrier and strengthen its contribution to Mozambique’s economy.
Public interest lawyer Ayodele Ademiluyi has filed a N500 billion (approximately $610 million) lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Lagos against the Federal Government, NCAA, Ibom Air, ValueJet, and several other parties, including King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), over alleged unequal treatment in two aviation incidents. The suit claims a violation of the rule of law after Comfort Emmanson was arrested and prosecuted for disruptive conduct on a flight, while KWAM 1 reportedly faced no consequences and was even appointed an aviation brand ambassador. Ademiluyi argued the case highlights systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s aviation sector and called for institutional accountability, emphasizing that no individual, regardless of fame, should be above the law. The lawsuit seeks to compel authorities, including Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, to take action and ensure equitable enforcement of aviation regulations.
South African Airways (SAA) successfully overturned a CCMA ruling on August 16, 2025, that had reinstated former employee Regg Mashigo, who was dismissed in 2013 for disobedience and unauthorised absences. Mashigo had initially refused to report to a lower-ranking colleague, Darrin Peters, leading to reassignment and subsequent conflicts over absences between September 2012 and March 2013. The CCMA had ruled in Mashigo’s favour, arguing that he was unfairly penalised for errors committed by Peters and another colleague, and awarded him reinstatement with over R286,000 (~USD 15,500) in back pay. SAA appealed to the Labour Court, where Acting Judge Hedda Schensema criticised the CCMA commissioner for disregarding evidence showing Mashigo knowingly bypassed proper authorisation procedures and contradicted his own defence. The court concluded that the dismissal was fair, and the CCMA award was set aside.
Tunisia‘s Express Air Cargo, now rebranded as Express Airline, is facing a lawsuit filed by Russian tour operator Biblio Globus in the Moscow Arbitration Court on August 4, 2025. The claim seeks 550 million rubles (approximately $6.9 million USD) in damages and arises from the abrupt cancellation of Express Airline’s planned flight program connecting Moscow and St. Petersburg to Tunisia. Details of the claim remain undisclosed in the court documents. Founded in 2015 and headquartered at Tunis-Carthage International Airport, Express Air Cargo operates a fleet of Boeing 737 freighters, including -300F and -800BCF models, and has recently expanded its operations to include passenger services under the new branding.
On August 6, the High Court of Justice of England and Wales transferred a legal dispute between Green Africa Airways and ACIA Aero Leasing concerning three ATR 72-600 aircraft returned to the lessor in March 2025. ACIA claims the airline owes approximately $5.15 million in unpaid leases and maintenance costs, while Green Africa disputes the amount, citing unapplied contractual discounts, maintenance credits, retained spare parts, and contested interest calculations. Following the repossession, Green Africa now operates a single ATR 72-500 aircraft, acquired through a debt facility, as it seeks to stabilize operations amid the ongoing legal proceedings.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
easyJet has suspended a captain after he was allegedly seen drunk and wandering naked through a luxury five-star hotel in Cape Verde in the early hours of 5 August 2025, following a night of heavy drinking. Guests reported the pilot roaming reception, the gym, and the spa without clothes, prompting complaints to the airline. Although he was scheduled to fly a return service to Gatwick more than 36 hours later, EasyJet immediately removed him from duty and found a replacement pilot. The airline confirmed he now faces an investigation, stressing that passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority, while reiterating its code of ethics requiring staff to act with integrity.
On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Air France flight AF442, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER (registration F-GZNR) from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Rio de Janeiro, was forced to divert to Senegal due to a medical emergency on board. While cruising at 32,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, the crew notified air traffic control (ATC) of the situation. The aircraft landed at Blaise Diagne International Airport in Senegal, where the passenger received medical attention. The flight resumed its journey approximately one hour after the unscheduled stopover.
On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, a blast near a United Nations World Food Programme (WFP)-chartered helicopter in Solle, northwestern Burkina Faso, injured a crew member and a government official, prompting WFP to suspend flights to the area. The helicopter, lightly damaged but safely relocated, had just landed when the explosion occurred, with investigations now underway. WFP, which is working to reach over 300,000 people during the lean season, reiterated calls for all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of aid workers and assets. This incident follows a 2023 attack on a WFP helicopter in Djibo, though that earlier event resulted in no injuries.
On 14 August 2025, an Extra EA-300LP (ZS-AEC) crashed into the sea off Suncoast Beach, Durban, during a display flight at an airshow concluding the ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit. The aircraft, which had departed from and was due to return to Durban-Virginia Airport, was destroyed on impact, and the sole pilot was killed. The body was only recovered later that evening after extensive search efforts, with the investigation now being led by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
On 16 August 2025, an Antonov An-2R (9S-GZP) crashed in a forest about 34 km from Kisangani, D.R. Congo, while on a ferry flight from Lubutu Airport to Kisangani-Bangoka International Airport. All seven occupants were reported killed, though local media initially suggested one survivor with critical injuries. The aircraft, built in 1986 and recently sold by Air Kasaï, was being transferred to Kisangani for inspection and certification to obtain a Certificate of Airworthiness. The accident is under investigation by the BPEA.
In other news:
The namibia airports company (NAC) has launched Women in Aviation Namibia, a national initiative to boost female participation in the country’s male-dominated aviation sector. Deputy Chair Elize Petersen highlighted that globally only 5% of pilots are women, citing structural, social, cultural, and economic barriers as key obstacles. The program will focus on recruitment, training, mentorship, internships, scholarships, and partnerships to support women in roles such as pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, and airline managers. Petersen emphasized that increasing diversity will strengthen Namibia’s aviation industry, which underpins tourism, trade, and connectivity. The initiative also draws inspiration from milestones like Air Namibia’s first all-women wide-body flight in 2018 and Fly Namibia’s all-women crew in 2024.
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