(Posted 02nd September 2025)
Introduction.
Angola scored 83.14% in the latest International Civil Aviation Organization civil aviation safety audit, ranking 4th in Africa behind Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, and surpassing both the African (66.70%) and global (72.01%) averages. The audit, conducted in June 2025, assessed the national aviation system and key airports, marking a major improvement from 46.85% in 2017 and exceeding ICAO’s 75% safety target. The Ministry of Transport hailed the result as historic, reflecting strengthened aviation safety oversight and aligning Angola with international standards. Transport Minister Ricardo Viegas D’Abreu said the achievement boosts investor confidence, enhances international credibility, and ensures safer, more reliable air travel for passengers.
Conferences & Events.
The CANSO Africa Conference 2025 was held from 26–28 August at the Argyle Grand Hotel near Nairobi Airport, gathering over 100 aviation leaders, regulators, and innovators from across Africa and beyond. Organized by the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), the event focused on aligning Africa’s air traffic management (ATM) with global strategies, including the Complete Air Traffic System (CATS) Vision 2045 and ICAO frameworks. Under the theme “Future Skies for Africa: Enhancing Alignment, Collaboration, and Implementation,” the conference featured expert sessions, workshops, and discussions on automation, digitization, and safety culture in ATM. A highlight was a guided tour of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority’s new Area Control Centre in Mlolongo, showcasing modern air traffic management systems. The event reinforced Africa’s proactive role in shaping the continent’s aviation future.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
A European safety review has halted plans for single-pilot commercial flights, with the EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency concluding after a three-year study that there is insufficient evidence to prove such operations are as safe as the two-pilot model. Despite advances in cockpit technology, the report warned that removing one pilot would weaken safeguards against fatigue, medical emergencies, and decision-making errors, while also raising security concerns. Pilot associations, including the European Cockpit Association, welcomed the findings as a “reality check.” Industry leaders such as International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airbus also emphasized that commercial aircraft are designed for two-pilot operations and that human pilots remain essential for safety. For now, regulators have reinforced the two-pilot standard as the safest option in aviation.
Air Algérie has launched its new subsidiary, Domestic Airlines, which began commercial operations on August 25, 2025 with its first scheduled flight connecting Algiers to Tamanrasset aboard a Boeing 737-800. Formed in July following Air Algérie’s acquisition of tassili airlines, the new carrier aims to boost internal connectivity, particularly to Algeria’s southern Saharan regions. To support its operations, Air Algérie placed Africa’s largest-ever ATR order—16 ATR 72-600s equipped with PW127XT engines—scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028, alongside Africa’s first ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator to enhance training capacity. With Tassili’s existing fleet of 15 aircraft now integrated, Domestic Airlines will focus on short-haul, point-to-point routes, strengthening regional mobility, supporting tourism, reducing road congestion, and contributing to national economic development.
Dakar Air Cargo (DAC) has officially launched operations as Senegal’s first dedicated cargo airline, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s logistics capacity. The carrier’s inaugural flight on August 22, operated by an ATR72-500F, connected Dakar with Cape Verde and transported fresh fish and seafood, establishing a vital “air bridge” for perishable exports. Based at Blaise Diagne International Airport, DAC plans to expand across West Africa, combining scheduled services with on-demand charters to support fisheries, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. By focusing exclusively on freight, the airline fills a critical market gap in a region where most carriers prioritize passenger services with limited belly-hold cargo space.
Ethiopia’s Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) has announced plans to expand the use of regional airports for international flights alongside Bole International Airport, aiming to improve domestic and international connectivity. During a meeting with the Ministry of Transport and other stakeholders, ECAA’s Air Transport Director Endashaw Yigezu outlined intentions to link cities such as Mizan Tepi, Jimma, Gambella, Assosa, Dire Dawa, Harar, and Bale Robe, enabling regional travel and easing pressure on Addis Ababa. The initiative, set for the next fiscal year and beyond, is expected to increase air transport usage, support tourism, and stimulate investment, especially as road travel remains risky due to security challenges and frequent kidnappings in Oromia.
Kenya is considering introducing an air ticket levy following Tanzania’s recent implementation of a KSh 11,628 (~USD 80) fee to fund international travel security. The Kenyan Parliament passed the Air Passenger Service Charge (Amendment) Bill 2025, which proposes a levy to enhance aviation safety and promote tourism. If enacted, domestic passengers would pay KSh 600 (~USD 4.10) and international travelers $50 (KSh 6,462) (~USD 50), with proceeds distributed among the Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Meteorological Service Authority, and the Tourism Fund. Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) CEO Nicanor Sabula emphasized the levy’s potential to support aviation infrastructure and tourism development if properly managed. The move aligns with Tanzania’s strategy of “high-value, low-volume” tourism, although some airline operators have expressed concerns about additional costs amid already high regional charges.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
According to OAG, global air travel reached an all-time high on August 1, 2025, with 18,531,658 airline seats scheduled, marking the busiest day ever recorded. Analysis of the past 17 years (2009–2025) shows a clear pattern: the busiest days almost always fall on Fridays in July or August, with six of them occurring on the second Friday of August and five on the first Friday of August. The only exceptions were during the pandemic years, when the busiest days shifted to 3 January 2020 and 17 December 2021, reflecting travel restrictions. Airports like Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson have consistently dominated the busiest days, while Dubai International has remained in the top five since 2015, and Beijing Capital dropped out of the rankings after Beijing Daxing opened in 2019. On the airline side, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines have led in seat capacity, with Southwest most often ranked first, while Delta and United dominated by Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs). For routes, domestic short-haul flights remain the busiest, with Jeju–Seoul Gimpo topping the list every year since 2014; on August 1, 2025, this route alone carried 40,556 scheduled seats.
ROTORTRADE’s 2024–2025 Market Analysis for Africa highlights strong growth prospects in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, driven by rising demand for preowned helicopters from Western manufacturers. The African helicopter market is highly localized, requiring on-the-ground presence and adaptation to local business practices, prompting Rotortrade to plan new offices on the continent. Africa’s fleet comprises 1,076 turbine and 480 piston helicopters, with Bell and Airbus each holding about 35% of the turbine segment, followed by Leonardo (20.7%), Sikorsky (4%), and Robinson Helicopter Company (3.9%), while Robinson dominates the piston market at 91.7%. The shift toward Western preowned helicopters is partly due to humanitarian agencies moving away from Russian-built platforms, though U.S. funding cuts have slowed fleet replacement, keeping reliance on older models like the Bell 412 high.
Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) saw strong passenger growth in July 2025, with international terminal traffic rising 9% year-on-year to over 219,500 two-way passengers, while the domestic terminal handled more than 607,000 passengers, up 8% compared to July 2024. George Airport recorded a 20% increase in two-way passengers, reaching over 74,000. Air cargo volumes in the Western Cape also surged, with June trade reaching 6,750 metric tonnes—a 36% year-on-year increase—and year-to-date volumes approaching 49,000 metric tonnes, up 56% from 2024. Exports accounted for 51% of June cargo, growing 40%, while imports rose 32%, with temperature-sensitive goods dominating exports at 62%.
Guinea‘s Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport (AIAST) in Conakry experienced a significant increase in passenger traffic during the first half of 2025. According to data from the Conakry Airport Management Company (SOGEAC), the airport recorded 446,335 passengers between January and June 2025, marking a 20% rise compared to 371,378 passengers during the same period in 2024 . This growth is attributed to factors such as increased international flights and the expansion of mining projects in the region. To accommodate this surge, the airport is undergoing a modernization project aimed at enhancing its capacity and infrastructure. In 2024, the airport handled nearly 789,000 passengers, surpassing its theoretical capacity of 500,000, highlighting the urgency of these expansion efforts .
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Nigeria and Brazil have formally signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), establishing a framework for direct flights between the two countries and marking a key milestone in aviation and diplomatic relations. The agreement was signed in Brasília during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil, in the presence of both heads of state, with Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo SAN and Brazil’s Minister of Transport Silvio Costa Filho leading the ceremony. The BASA is expected to enhance trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange, while also strengthening diplomatic ties and opening avenues for future collaboration in sectors such as aviation, agriculture, and infrastructure. The Lagos–São Paulo route, long discussed since early 2024, is set to improve connectivity between West Africa and South America, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to expanding global partnerships and mobility for people and commerce.
EGYPTAIR and Huawei signed a landmark strategic partnership and memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the airline’s Cairo headquarters, marking a major step in Egypt’s digital transformation drive. Under the agreement, EgyptAir will serve as the preferred airline for Huawei employees worldwide, while Huawei will provide advanced digital and AI solutions to modernize EgyptAir’s operations, enhance efficiency, and improve customer experience. The MoU, co-signed by EgyptAir’s Information Sector Head Engineer Yasser Omran and Huawei Egypt’s Senior Vice President Du Yong, aims to integrate smart technology and AI into the airline’s systems, supporting both operational performance and Egypt’s broader aviation digitalization goals.
Air Mauritius, in partnership with Polytechnics Mauritius, has launched a pioneering Diploma in Engineering Technology (Aircraft and Engine Maintenance), marking a major step in developing local aeronautical expertise. The programme, co-designed with Air Mauritius engineers, targets students with at least five Grade 11 credits including Mathematics and Physics, and includes a rigorous selection process with aptitude tests, simulations, and interviews. Aimed at reducing reliance on foreign labor, the diploma aligns with Mauritius’ vision to become a regional center of educational and technical excellence, “Mauritianizing” key skills in aviation.
On 26 August 2025, Turkish defense technology firm HAVELSAN and Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) signed an agreement in Cairo to jointly produce vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), marking a milestone in Türkiye–Egypt defense cooperation. The deal, announced by Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Sen, highlights growing collaboration in advanced defense technologies, with Havelsan General Manager Mehmet Akif Nacar stressing that the partnership will boost local production, strengthen Egypt’s autonomy in UAV technologies, and open access to the wider African market. Alongside UAVs, the cooperation extends to unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), with production already underway through Egypt’s Kader factory.
On August 25, 2025, EGYPTAIR announced a long-term partnership with the New Terminal One at JFK Airport, marking a key step in its U.S. expansion strategy. Under the agreement, the airline will relocate its New York operations to the state-of-the-art terminal in 2026, offering passengers an upgraded and seamless travel experience. The move aligns with the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which includes new terminals, modernized facilities, and improved transport links. For EgyptAir, this transition strengthens its daily nonstop services between JFK and Cairo while enhancing connectivity to Egypt’s cultural landmarks and global destinations.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Ethiopian Airlines is set to expand its domestic network with the launch of thrice-weekly flights to Yabelo town on Sunday, 31 August 2025, coinciding with the inauguration of the newly constructed Yabelo Airport in the Borena Zone of Oromia Region. The move is part of Ethiopian’s broader strategy to enhance domestic air travel, which includes constructing and renovating airports across the country following its 2017 acquisition of the Ethiopian Airports Enterprise. Recent upgrades and inaugurations include terminals at Gode Ugaas Miraad and Jinka Airports, renovations at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport’s domestic terminal, and resumed services to Dembi Dollo and Axum. The airline currently serves 22 domestic destinations using its Dash 8-400 aircraft.
German low-cost carrier Eurowings will launch a new Prague–Marrakech route on 8 November 2025, operating two flights per week during the winter season. Flights from Václav Havel Airport depart Thursdays at 11:20 a.m. (return from Marrakech, Morocco at 4:40 p.m.) and on weekends at 8:35 p.m. (return at 1:55 a.m.), with travel time around 4.5 hours. The service, using an Airbus Aircraft A320 with 180 seats, will run until the end of March 2026, with a short break from 3 January to 15 February 2026. The connection aims to facilitate winter travel for Czech tourists to Marrakech, a city renowned for its historic sites, vibrant markets, and proximity to the Atlas Mountains and the desert.
Air Zimbabwe Private Limited has launched daily domestic return flights between Harare and Mutare from 8 to 14 September 2025, ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo, as part of its broader strategy to boost domestic connectivity and tourism. The temporary service aims to provide efficient travel for exhibitors, delegates, and visitors, while testing market demand for potential long-term operations. The flight schedule enables seamless connections between Victoria Falls, Harare, and Mutare, promoting multi-destination tourism, and facilitates regional and international travel via Harare. In collaboration with CAAZ, ACZ, NHS, and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, and leveraging online payment partnerships like Paynow Zimbabwe, Air Zimbabwe is enhancing convenience and accessibility.
Air Côte d’Ivoire is set to launch its first long-haul service with daily flights between Abidjan and Paris starting September 18, 2025, using its new Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. The carrier, which will soon take delivery of two of these jets, is introducing a highly premium four-cabin layout that even includes first class—making it one of Africa’s most upscale widebody products. The 3,037-mile route, also served by Air France and Corsair, reflects the airline’s ambitions to expand internationally. This milestone marks a major step for the Ivorian national carrier as it spreads its wings into long-haul operations.
Turkish Airlines plans to expand its West African network with new service to Bissau, Guinea-Bissau’s capital, marking its 20th destination in Central and Western Africa. While details on launch date, aircraft type, or frequency remain undisclosed, the route would strengthen Turkish’s presence in a market currently limited to 3,415 weekly seats served by five carriers, led by Royal Air Maroc and ASKY AIRLINES. Currently, Lisbon, Portugal is the only European gateway, while regional links connect Bissau to cities like Abidjan, Dakar, and Casablanca. Turkish’s entry could provide valuable one-stop connectivity to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, while also reducing dependence on African hubs and Lisbon.
Nigeria has made a significant advance in global aviation connectivity as Air Peace Limited operated a direct demonstration flight from São Paulo to Lagos, inaugurating a new air corridor between Africa’s largest economy and South America’s biggest market. The milestone follows a historic aviation agreement signed in Brasília, witnessed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to enhance trade, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Brazil. The direct route will cut travel times from nearly 20 hours via Europe or the Middle East, with Air Peace handling passenger flights and Cavertin operating cargo services, both expected to commence fully in Q4 2025.
Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo, during his visit to Rwanda on August 28, emphasized the need for a direct air connection between the two countries to improve travel, trade, and investment opportunities. Speaking at a High-Level Business Leaders’ Roundtable in Kigali, he highlighted Africa’s ongoing challenges with air connectivity, where travelers often have to route through Europe. The proposed direct flights aim to strengthen bilateral economic ties, facilitate tourism, and support strategic sectors such as logistics, energy, and agro-processing. The initiative aligns with broader agreements between Rwanda and Mozambique to enhance multi-sector cooperation and enable private sector-led growth, with aviation seen as a critical enabler of regional connectivity and economic integration.
Burkina Faso and Russia are negotiating the launch of direct flights between Ouagadougou and Moscow, a move expected to boost tourism, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation between the two nations. Announced during the Technoprom-2025 forum held from August 26 to 29, 2025, in Novosibirsk, the plan has already attracted interest from a Russian airline and aligns with broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties. In October 2025, a Burkinabe delegation of over 500 people will visit St. Petersburg to explore joint tourism and business initiatives, while cultural events such as film festivals and orchestra performances have highlighted growing exchanges. The proposed flights will not only ease travel and attract Russian tourists to Burkina Faso but also open West African markets to Russia, generating economic benefits in aviation, hospitality, and local services. Positioned as a tool of diplomacy, the new air link marks a significant milestone in deepening Burkina Faso-Russia relations through tourism and cultural diplomacy.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
CAMAIR-CO, Cameroon’s national carrier, has strengthened its regional presence by wet-leasing a 28-year-old Boeing 737-300 from Nigerian airline NG Eagle, recently refurbished with a C-check in Lagos. The move, aimed at improving schedule reliability and expanding seat capacity, allows the airline to better serve both tourists and business travelers across Central and West Africa. By adding this aircraft, CAMAIR-CO can reinforce popular routes to Yaoundé and Douala while enhancing links to key hubs such as Abidjan, Libreville, and Kinshasa. The expansion comes at a time of rising tourism in Cameroon, offering smoother travel to destinations like Mount Cameroon, Kribi Beach, and the Dja Faunal Reserve, while also boosting business connectivity and trade across the region.
Tarco Air has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-800, registered as C5-FBN, this August 2025. The aircraft, now 18.8 years old, was ferried from Amman (ADJ) to Port Sudan (PZU) on 27 August 2025, where it is currently stationed. Originally delivered to Kenya Airways in November 2006 as 5Y-KYB, the jet has had a varied operational history, serving with multiple carriers including Eastern Air Lines, Inc., Swift Air, Smartwings, and iAero Airways, before being managed by Bank of Utah in mid-2024. Over its lifetime, the aircraft has undergone several storage periods and even sustained a tail-strike incident in 2018 while with Smartwings at Heraklion (HER). Now joining Tarco Air’s fleet, the aircraft strengthens the Sudanese carrier’s narrowbody capacity and reflects the airline’s continued reliance on mid-life 737NGs for regional operations.
On 26 August 2025, RwandAir Ltd took delivery of a Boeing 737-8H6(WL), registered 9XR-WU, on lease from AviLease. The 12.1-year-old aircraft was originally delivered to Malaysia Airlines in August 2013 as 9M-MSG and underwent several configuration changes before being withdrawn from service and stored in Kuala Lumpur between May and August 2025. Reconfigured in a two-class layout with 12 business and 162 economy seats (C12Y162), the jet is powered by two CFM International CFM56-7B26E engines. It was ferried from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) via Malé (MLE) to Kigali (KGL) on the day of delivery, representing a significant addition to Rwandair’s fleet. Earlier, on 14 August 2025, the airline had also taken delivery of a similar 12.2-year-old Boeing 737-8H6, registered 9XR-WT, also leased from AviLease and previously operated by Malaysia Airlines.
On 30 August 2025, Royal Air Maroc took delivery of a new Boeing 737-8 MAX, registered CN-RHF, on lease from Air Lease Corporation (ALC). Configured with 12 business and 144 economy class seats (C12Y144) and powered by two CFM International (CFM) LEAP-1B27 engines, the aircraft was ferried from Boeing Field (BFI) via Gander (YQX) to Casablanca (CMN) on the same day as part of its delivery flight. This addition strengthens the airline’s narrowbody fleet as it continues to modernize and expand operations.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
On August 26, 2025, Uganda Airlines’ Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) completed its first in-house engine change on a Bombardier CRJ900 (5X-KNP) at Entebbe, replacing the left-hand General Electric (GE) CF34-8C5 engine. Approved by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority in March 2024, the operation was fully conducted by the airline’s AMO team, demonstrating technical capability, regulatory compliance, and significant cost savings compared to outsourcing. CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki highlighted that the aircraft returned to service in just five days, underscoring efficiency gains. The milestone coincides with Uganda Airlines’ sixth anniversary and follows recent network and fleet expansions, including London Gatwick flights with an Airbus A330-800, and plans to negotiate orders for two A320neos and two A321neos for 2031–2033, complementing its current fleet of two A330-800s and four CRJ900s.
Ethiopian MRO Services has achieved a major technical milestone by completing capability testing for the LEAP-1B engine, used exclusively on Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, making it one of the few facilities globally with this advanced maintenance capacity. The Addis Ababa-based facility successfully conducted a Performance Restoration Shop Visit (PRSV1) test on the CFM International engine, with approvals from both the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority and the Federal Aviation Administration. This capability allows the MRO to restore engine performance to original specifications, reducing downtime for airlines that previously had to send engines abroad for such work. Ethiopian MRO, already certified by the FAA, EASA, and Ethiopian authorities, supports a fleet of over 140 aircraft and offers line and base maintenance, engine, and component services to regional and Middle Eastern carriers.
South Africa’s state-owned Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) plans to raise approximately half of the 21.7 billion rand ($1.2 billion) earmarked for airport infrastructure upgrades over the next year, leveraging long-term debt instruments and loans supported by its strengthened balance sheet and growing investor interest. The operator, which posted a net income of 1.1 billion rand ($61 million) for the year through March 2025 and holds cash reserves of 5.9 billion rand ($328 million), will finance the remainder internally. The decade-long modernization program, running through 2032, aims to address years of underinvestment and operational inefficiencies across the airport network. Key projects include a 5.7 billion rand ($317 million) cargo terminal at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, slated for completion in 2028–29, as well as expansions and upgrades at Cape Town International Airport, runway improvements, and enhancements to domestic gates and arrivals facilities. For the current fiscal year, ACSA has allocated 2.3 billion rand ($128 million) to refurbishment and rehabilitation projects, more than triple the 727 million rand ($40 million) spent last year.
Uganda Airlines is set to invest approximately $50 million in establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities at Entebbe International Airport. This initiative aims to develop hangars and workshops capable of conducting full base maintenance for the airline’s current and future fleet, with the potential to offer third-party maintenance services. The move is part of a broader strategy to reduce the airline’s dependence on foreign maintenance providers, which currently accounts for nearly 20% of its operational budget. In March 2024, Uganda Airlines received approval from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) to operate as an Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO). Since then, the AMO has successfully completed its first in-house engine change on a Bombardier CRJ900LR aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s self-sufficiency in aircraft maintenance.
Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace Limited, will officially break ground on its long-awaited Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Lagos on September 17, 2025. Announced by Chairman and CEO Dr. Allen Onyema following his return from Brazil with President Bola Tinubu’s delegation, the project is expected to take 12–15 months to complete. Backed by Brazilian planemaker Embraer, which will provide technical support and training for Nigerian engineers, the facility is set to significantly cut costs for local airlines that currently depend on overseas maintenance. Once operational, the MRO will strengthen Nigeria’s aviation self-sufficiency, create jobs, and position Lagos as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance in West Africa.
Authorities in Cameroon have earmarked CFA490 million (about USD 800,000) to compensate families affected by the expansion of Bertoua Airport, part of a CFA72 billion (about USD 118 million) modernization program for three regional airports. A first tranche of CFA200 million (about USD 325,000) will be paid in 2025 to households losing land, with a second installment in 2026 covering farm losses. Despite being identified as a strategic project to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth, actual construction has yet to commence, three years after the President directed the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority to expedite the process.
Namibia’s Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi, has rejected the proposed N$400-million (?$22.5 million) headquarters for the namibia airports company (NAC), deeming amenities such as a gym, daycare centre, shower, private kitchens, and oversized offices as “unnecessary luxuries” in a country still grappling with poverty and inequality. In a letter dated 21 August, Nekundi instructed the NAC to scrap these features, suggesting instead that the company declare dividends to the state for broader national use. The proposed headquarters includes a 42m² gym, 20m² daycare, 50m² kitchen with freezer, 152m² lecture hall, and 143m² cafeteria with an 85m² deck, as well as offices up to 79m²—well above typical ministerial and executive office sizes. Nekundi emphasized that such facilities do not add value to the NAC and that government institutions already provide lecture halls and other services. The decision highlights ongoing scrutiny of the NAC, which has a history of corruption allegations, including a cancelled N$7-billion (?$393 million) airport expansion tender and former executives facing multiple fraud and bribery charges.
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) reported a strong financial recovery for the year ended 31 March 2025, with net profit more than doubling to R1.1 billion ($61 million) from R472 million ($26 million) the previous year, supported by 13% revenue growth to R7.9 billion ($438 million). Non-aeronautical revenue streams, including retail and parking, now account for 49% of total income, while EBITDA rose to R2.9 billion ($161 million), reflecting a 37% margin. Capital expenditure reached R861 million ($48 million), up from R568 million ($32 million) the prior year, as ACSA continues its R21.7 billion ($1.2 billion) five-year infrastructure investment plan at key airports, including OR Tambo, Cape Town, and George. The company maintains a strong balance sheet with total assets of R32 billion ($1.8 billion), a net debt-to-capitalization ratio of 8%, and liquidity of R3.4 billion ($189 million), enabling dividend payments of R113 million ($6 million) in ordinary shares and R198 million ($11 million) in preference shares.
South African regional carrier Airlink has warned it may suspend ticket sales in Mozambique due to persistent difficulties in repatriating revenues from local sales, highlighting a broader crisis of blocked airline funds across Africa. The airline told the Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators of Mozambique that the issue is placing “considerable pressure” on its finances, although it pledged to provide notice and support if a suspension occurs. Mozambique has emerged as the largest contributor to blocked funds in Africa, withholding $205 million from airlines as of 2025, up from $127 million in October 2024, while the Africa and Middle East region accounts for 85% of the global $1.3 billion in unrepatriated airline revenues. Similarly, Ethiopian Airlines has been unable to recover funds frozen in Eritrea, leading to the suspension of its flights to Asmara since September 2024. CEO Mesfin Tasew explained that legal avenues to retrieve the funds have been unsuccessful due to political decisions beyond the airline’s control. The dispute has strained bilateral relations, although Ethiopian Airlines continues to use Eritrean airspace for international routes, denying reports that it has been barred. IATA and industry stakeholders have warned that delayed access to revenues threatens airline sustainability, connectivity, and tourism.
Kenya Airways (KQ) returned to losses in H1 2025, posting a KSh 12.15 billion (approx. USD 92 million) after-tax loss, a sharp reversal from the KSh 513 million (approx. USD 3.9 million) profit in H1 2024, translating to a negative net margin of 16.3% versus 0.6% last year. Total income fell to KSh 74.5 billion (approx. USD 566 million) from KSh 91.5 billion (approx. USD 694 million), while operating costs slightly decreased to KSh 80.7 billion (approx. USD 612 million). The airline recorded an operating loss of KSh 6.24 billion (approx. USD 47 million) (operating margin -8.4%), compounded by a surge in other costs to KSh 5.97 billion (approx. USD 45 million). Passenger traffic dropped 14% to 2.2 million, with ASKs down 16% to 6.72 billion and RPKs down 19%, reflecting weaker demand and reduced capacity. The airline has faced persistent challenges including COVID-19 disruptions, high debt, a weakening shilling, and rising interest costs. By comparison, in 2024, Kenya Airways achieved a KSh 5.4 billion (approx. USD 41 million) profit after tax, with revenues of KSh 188.5 billion (approx. USD 1.43 billion), passenger numbers at 5.23 million, cargo volume up 25% to 70,776 tonnes, and an operating profit of KSh 16.6 billion (approx. USD 126 million), highlighting the volatility in its recent financial performance. The airline plans to raise at least USD 500 million by the first quarter of 2026 to modernize and expand its fleet following the sharp half-year loss. Already, the airline has secured a USD 50 million loan as an interim measure while awaiting the larger capital injection.
VISA/Passports/Consulates/Travel.
The Gambia and South Africa are moving toward visa-free travel to strengthen trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges, following discussions between Foreign Minister Sering Modou Njie and his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola at TICAD Business Expo & Conference 9 in Tokyo, Japan on Friday. The ministers emphasized the longstanding bonds of African solidarity and agreed to advance a Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement, which is expected to facilitate travel, boost investment, and enhance cultural ties. In addition, both countries pledged to expand cooperation in diplomatic training and capacity building, promoting the exchange of expertise and best practices to strengthen resilient diplomatic institutions. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen collaboration across these priority areas.
People/Appointments.
Madagascar Airlines has extended CEO Thierry de Bailleul’s contract to ensure continuity in its transformation under The World Bank -backed “Phenix 2030” strategic plan. The extension follows consultations with the Malagasy government and the airline’s Board of Directors. De Bailleul emphasized that the extension is not about titles but about securing the means to continue the work already underway. A World Bank financing package of USD 65 million has been allocated to support the turnaround plan, with USD 25 million already mobilized and a further USD 80 million under negotiation, of which USD 40 million is earmarked for the airline and USD 40 million for aviation infrastructure. Key conditions for funding release include the Commercial Court in Antananarivo‘s approval of Madagascar Airlines’ offer to acquire the assets of former company Air Madagascar and its subsidiary Tsaradia, and the exemption of import duties on aircraft and equipment. Both measures have been approved by the Malagasy authorities but await implementation.
The Mozambican government has appointed Emanuel José da Conceição Chaves as chairman of the board of the Civil Aviation Institute of Mozambique (IACM), replacing João Martins de Abreu. Chaves, who has extensive experience in civil aviation, previously chaired Mozambique Airports and the International Airports Association of Africa, and currently leads the Supervisory Committee of the Mozambique Sovereign Wealth Fund. He assumes leadership amid challenges in the aviation sector, including issues raised by Airlink over difficulties repatriating ticket sales revenue. The government has pledged to address such concerns.
Uganda Airlines has sworn in a new seven-member board, led by Chairperson Priscilla Mirembe Sseruka, to oversee its strategic direction over the next three years. The board’s priorities include implementing a 10-year corporate strategy aligned with the National Development Plan IV, expanding the fleet, increasing route networks, reducing operational losses, and strengthening human capital.
A wave of industrial unrest has erupted at ASECNA —the Agency for the Safety of Air Navigation in Africa and Madagascar—where multiple labor unions have now united in an unprecedented front against the management of its CEO, Prosper Zo’o Minto’o. Barely one year into his tenure, the unionized backlash is posing a serious challenge to the implementation of ASECNA’s ambitious air-space recovery plan. The coordination of this collective opposition signals heightened tensions within the regional air-traffic authority and threatens to derail its strategic objectives.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has been named the official airline of the 36th São Paulo Biennale, Latin America’s leading contemporary art event running from September 6, 2025 to January 11, 2026. In what the airline calls a first-of-its-kind partnership, RAM will serve as a cultural bridge between Africa, Brazil, and other Global South nations. Since resuming flights to Brazil eight months ago, RAM will play a key role in transporting artists, their works, and handling the event’s complex logistics. The 2025 Biennale, themed “Not all travelers follow the roads – Humanity as practice,” will feature artists from Africa, Latin America, and Asia, highlighting global perspectives and South-South connections while relying on RAM’s international air network and logistical expertise.
Lawsuits/Investigations.
Ghana has launched investigations into the military helicopter crash in the Ashanti region that killed all eight people on board, including Defence Minister Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. The Z-9 utility helicopter, used for transport and medical evacuation, had departed Accra for Obuasi before going off radar and crashing, marking one of the country’s worst air disasters in over a decade. A board comprising Ghana Air Force experts, civil aviation regulators, and US Air Force investigators has been set up to determine the cause of the accident and is expected to present its findings within 30 days.
A court in Equatorial Guinea has convicted Ruslan Obiang Nsue, son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and former director of the state-owned airline Ceiba Intercontinental, for illegally selling an ATR 72-500 aircraft to a Spanish company and keeping the proceeds. He was sentenced to six years in prison, which could be avoided if he reimburses the airline approximately $255,000, along with damages and a state fine. Obiang Nsue, who was initially placed under house arrest in 2023 by his half-brother, Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, was acquitted of separate embezzlement and abuse-of-office charges.
Madagascar’s anti-corruption unit has detained 22 individuals over the illicit transfer of five Boeing 777-200ER aircraft to Iran in July 2025, circumventing Western sanctions that prevent Iranian airlines from legally acquiring planes. The aircraft, temporarily registered in Madagascar, were ferried from Cambodia to Iran with the involvement of senior officials from Madagascar’s Civil Aviation Authority and executives from India-based UDAAN Aviation. Charges include corruption, forgery, money laundering, conspiracy, abuse of power, and endangering state security. The scandal prompted the dismissal of Transport Minister Valéry Ramonjavelo, who approved the provisional registrations without consulting top government officials. The investigation, assisted by the FBI, continues with nine suspects still at large, highlighting serious concerns about misuse of provisional aircraft registrations and weaknesses in international aviation oversight.
On August 28, 2025, Tanzania‘s High Court upheld a ruling requiring Turkish Airlines to compensate Simba Sports Club official Hassan Othman Hassan with TSh36 million (approximately $14,000) after his luggage went missing during a flight to Morocco in April 2023. Hassan had traveled to watch Simba SC’s international match against Wydad Casablanca but failed to recover his belongings despite repeated follow-ups. His lost luggage included clothes, three pairs of Italian shoes, medication for blood pressure and ulcers, gifts for business contacts, and a container carrying 10 kilograms of honey. The court dismissed Turkish Airlines’ appeal, citing the airline’s failure to properly communicate with Hassan and its negligence in handling his luggage.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On 29 August, a Libyan Airlines flight (LN193) from Istanbul to Tripoli was forced to return to Tripoli without passengers after Istanbul Airport’s operator, IGA, refused ground services due to unpaid debts, despite the airline having transferred half of the outstanding amount earlier in the week. The unprecedented cancellation left passengers stranded, prompting Libyan Airlines to apologise and commit to full ticket refunds and special discounts for future travel. The airline emphasized that passenger safety and service quality remain its top priorities while it works to restore flight regularity and manage disruptions.
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The Mozambican government has clarified that it is not blocking the licensing of South Africa’s Solenta Aviation for regular domestic and regional flights. Minister of State Administration Inocencio Impissa stated that the process is proceeding normally and is now in its third and final stage, which involves assessing air transport policies and alignment with government targets. Solenta submitted its license request in February 2025 and previously operated domestic and regional routes in Mozambique in partnership with fastjet from 2017, although services were suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The company has continued charter operations, and the final licensing decision will be based on compliance with technical, financial, and policy requirements, though no completion date has been provided.
Boeing is set to test its next-generation 777X wide-body at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD/HAAB), leveraging the airport’s high altitude (7,625 feet) to assess the aircraft’s performance in thin-air conditions. Ethiopian Airlines, the first African customer for the 777-9, plans to acquire eight jets with options for 12 more, supporting its Vision 2035 strategy to expand its fleet to 271 aircraft, grow destinations to over 200, and quadruple annual passengers to 65 million. The 777-9, designed to carry up to 426 passengers over 7,200 nautical miles with GE9X engines and fuel-efficient composite wings, aligns with the airline’s ambition to remain Africa’s long-haul leader and challenge global competitors. The trials also underscore Bole International’s growing role in global aviation testing, following a precedent set by Airbus with the A380, and highlight Ethiopian Airlines’ drive to enhance operational efficiency and cement its status as a major international hub.
African Bush Camps, Zimbabwe’s leading safari operator, has opened a representative office at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare to enhance accessibility for travelers exploring the region’s prime wildlife areas. Founded in 2006 by local guide Beks Ndlovu, the company has grown into a regional leader with luxury lodges and camps across Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, offering authentic and inclusive safari experiences rooted in conservation and community empowerment. Through the African Bush Camps Foundation, it supports education, health, conservation, and livelihood projects aimed at fostering human-wildlife coexistence, while continuing to inspire global audiences with its unique approach to sustainable tourism.
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