(Posted 30th September 2025)
Introduction.
The air transport industry will need approximately 500 million tonnes (Mt) of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) annually by 2050 to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions, yet global production in 2025 is estimated at only 2 Mt. A recent study by International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Worley Consulting projects that SAF production could reach 400 Mt by 2050 under its core forecast, indicating that while the target is achievable, significant challenges remain. The study identifies that the main bottleneck is not feedstock availability, but the slow pace of technology deployment, requiring multiple technology routes for both bio-SAF and e-SAF. Achieving net zero will demand urgent acceleration in technology readiness, expanded access to sustainable feedstocks, and robust policy frameworks to ensure investment certainty, emphasizing that coordinated global action is essential to meet aviation’s sustainability goals.
Conferences & Events.
The 42nd Session of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly is currently underway in Montreal, Canada, from 23 September to 3 October 2025, under the theme “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future.” The triennial gathering brought together over 3,000 delegates from 174 Member States and international organizations to set global aviation policies and priorities. Key highlights included the election of new ICAO Council members, with Botswana ratifying protocols to expand the Council from 36 to 40 members and the Air Navigation Commission from 19 to 21. Africa emphasized greater representation with eight candidate countries, while discussions focused on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, accelerating Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption, and enhancing aviation safety standards. The Assembly also addressed geopolitical and cybersecurity challenges affecting global aviation, underscoring the need for international cooperation to ensure a safe, secure, and sustainable future for the industry.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
Kenya has introduced a structured framework to regulate foreign airline market access, replacing previous ad hoc approval processes. Under the new system, applications from foreign carriers will be evaluated by a Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) chaired by Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika. Key criteria include airport access, slot allocations, fund repatriation, staff employment, advertising rights, and taxation. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the changes are meant to protect Kenya’s strategic interests in aviation, trade, and tourism, while making Nairobi a stronger hub for East and Central Africa. Stakeholders from government agencies, tourism, agriculture, trade, the private sector, as well as bodies like the Kenya Airports Authority and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, have been involved. The reforms are expected to support Kenya’s goal of attracting five million tourists by 2027 and increase exports, especially perishable goods, through better use of freedom?of?fifth rights.
Private charter airline ELIN AIR has received AMO (Approved Maintenance Organization) certificates and OPSPEC approval from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), strengthening its role in Nigeria’s aviation industry. This certification follows Elin’s historic completion of a 7,800-landings maintenance check on a Challenger 604 aircraft and an Agusta A109E helicopter—both done entirely by Nigerian engineers. With the new approvals, Elin can maintain its own fleet and expand services to other operators, boosting local engineering capacity and creating job opportunities in aviation.
Aviation Projections and Statistics.
At the 42nd ICAO General Assembly in Montreal, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) proposed raising the mandatory retirement age for multipilot commercial pilots from 65 to 67, mirroring the 2006 adjustment from 60 to 65. IATA stressed that the change would not compromise safety and urged states to support it while developing harmonized medical oversight frameworks to ensure pilots remain fit to fly. Several nations, including New Zealand, Japan, Algeria, Jordan, Uruguay, Cuba, Mauritania, and Egypt, supported the proposal as a pragmatic response to workforce shortages, with Japan calling for additional risk-mitigation measures such as enhanced medical checks. However, India, China, Iran, and Colombia opposed or raised concerns, citing issues related to health, fatigue, cognitive decline, regulatory challenges, younger pilots’ career prospects, and safety confidence. The THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF AIR LINE PILOT’S ASSOCIATION (IFALPA) also objected, warning that raising the age without solid scientific evidence undermines ICAO’s safety principles. The ICAO Secretariat noted that medical science remains inconclusive, with state practices diverging and significant gaps in aviation medical data. The commission emphasized the need for further research and data collection to support a globally harmonized approach before any binding decision is made.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
At the 42nd ICAO Assembly Session, the Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA), together with its training arm, the Ecole de Formation, signed a partnership agreement under ICAO’s capacity-building and cooperation framework. The collaboration focuses on training, development, and aviation capacity-building, reflecting Cameroon’s efforts to strengthen its human capital and technical expertise in civil aviation. By joining this global initiative, Cameroon is positioning itself to benefit from enhanced international cooperation, knowledge transfer, and technical support that will contribute to a safer, more connected, and sustainable aviation system.
At the 42nd ICAO Assembly Session, Angola, through its Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC Angola), signed a cooperation agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to advance aviation training, development, and capacity-building. The partnership is designed to strengthen Angola’s technical expertise, enhance regulatory oversight, and align the country’s aviation sector with international safety and sustainability standards. Working closely with ICAO, Angola aims to modernize its civil aviation framework, expand professional training opportunities, and support the long-term growth of air connectivity.
At the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Oman signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Egypt aimed at strengthening civil aviation cooperation and expanding operating rights for national airlines. The agreement, signed by Captain Amr Elsharkawy, President of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, and Eng. Nayef bin Ali Al Abri, President of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority, includes provisions to increase flight frequencies and broaden route access. This move is expected to stimulate air traffic between the two countries while creating new opportunities in transportation, logistics, tourism, and investment exchange.
At the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal (September 2025), Oman and Côte d’Ivoire signed an air transport agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral aviation ties. The deal, signed by Eng. Nayef bin Ali Al Abri, President of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority, and His Excellency Bafétigué Ouattara, Côte d’Ivoire’s Ambassador to Canada and Permanent Representative to ICAO, provides a regulatory framework covering technical and legal provisions, route schedules, and traffic rights for national carriers. It opens the door for direct flights or codeshare arrangements between the two countries, promoting air connectivity, trade, tourism, and investment flows between the Middle East and West Africa.
At the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Ethiopia and the UAE agreed to upgrade their air transport services, moving beyond their existing memorandum of understanding to a higher level of cooperation aimed at improving connectivity and service delivery. Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority Director General Yohannes Abera underscored Ethiopia’s longstanding ties with ICAO and its role as a founding member, noting the country’s progress in building a modern aviation system. The enhanced partnership with the UAE is expected to boost flight operations, strengthen bilateral relations, and support Ethiopia’s long-term aviation development goals.
Liberia and Saudi Arabia have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Cooperation during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, aimed at transforming Liberia’s aviation sector. The agreement between Liberia’s Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) and Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) focuses on improving safety and security, environmental sustainability, policy development, logistics and connectivity, quality control, and passenger experience. Saudi Arabia has committed technical assistance, capacity-building, infrastructure support, and funding (including through the Saudi Fund for Development) to help Liberia address gaps identified in the 2022 ICAO safety oversight audit.
Morocco and Rwanda have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal to deepen their cooperation in international air transportation. The deal, inked by Rwanda’s Ambassador to ICAO, Prosper Higiro, and Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, aims to foster cooperation in aviation safety, improve air travel standards, and strengthen coordination in regional and global aviation forums. Morocco emphasized that the agreement is part of its broader strategy to increase air connectivity with African nations — its airline, Royal Air Maroc, already serves 27 African countries with around 600 flights weekly — with a goal to double annual passenger numbers from 40 million to 80 million by 2030.
Guyana and Rwanda have signed an “open skies” Air Services Agreement to promote and facilitate airline operations between the two countries. Inked at the ICAO 42nd Assembly in Montreal, the agreement was signed by Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Canada, Prosper Higiro, and Guyana Civil Aviation Authority Director General Egbert Field. Beyond standard provisions on rights, licensing, safety, and operational flexibility, the agreement aims to expand air connectivity and create new opportunities for airlines. Both officials emphasized the strategic significance of the agreement in strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing connectivity between Guyana, Africa, and beyond, and supporting Guyana’s vision of becoming an international aviation hub.
Russia and Sudan have signed a comprehensive agreement aimed at modernizing Sudan’s transport infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on civil aviation. The deal includes plans to rebuild and upgrade airports, enhance air traffic management, and provide training for Sudanese aviation personnel. This partnership is part of a broader effort to revitalize Sudan’s transport sector, which has been severely impacted by ongoing conflicts. The agreement also encompasses cooperation in railways, ports, and financial sectors, reflecting Russia’s strategic interest in expanding its influence in Africa. By supporting Sudan’s aviation development, Russia aims to strengthen bilateral ties and establish a foothold in the Horn of Africa, a region of increasing geopolitical significance.
Botswana has officially ratified the ICAO protocols amending Articles 50(a) and 56 of the Chicago Convention, which expand the ICAO Council from 36 to 40 members and the Air Navigation Commission from 19 to 21 members. Submitted during the ongoing 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, this ratification underscores Botswana’s proactive role in shaping global aviation governance and enhancing Africa’s representation in international civil aviation decision-making. ICAO continues to urge Member States to expedite their ratifications, as a total of 128 ratifications are required for the amendments to enter into force.
Skyway Aviation handling company Plc (SAHCO) has secured a contract to provide comprehensive ground handling services for AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED’s new thrice-weekly flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos. The agreement covers passenger, baggage, ramp, cargo handling, and warehousing services at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. SAHCO CEO Adenike Aboderin said the partnership reflects the company’s expertise, modern equipment, and commitment to safety and efficiency. As the only ground handling provider present in all commercial airports across Nigeria, SAHCO continues to attract international airlines, recently adding Ethiopian Airlines to its client list alongside the newly welcomed Air Tanzania.
Afrijet Business Service (of Gabon) and Senegal’s national carrier Air Sénégal S.A have entered into a strategic alliance to strengthen air connectivity within West and Central Africa. The agreement — announced on September 17 by Air Sénégal’s CEO Tidiane Ndiaye and Fly Gabon/Afrijet’s CEO Nyl Moret-Mba — includes coordinating schedules, sharing expertise, cost pooling, joint maintenance, aircraft leasing, interline and codeshare arrangements. Afrijet’s network focuses on Central African cities like Libreville, Brazzaville, Douala and others, while Air Sénégal connects across much of West Africa and Europe (via Paris). As these two combine forces, they aim to improve passenger connectivity, operational efficiency, and route reach across the region, especially between West and Central Africa.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Transavia France S.A.S. has expanded its winter 2025–2026 schedule to Tunisia, increasing seat capacity by 10% compared to the previous year. This growth is part of a renewed partnership with the National Office of Tunisian Tourism (ONTT), announced at the IFTM travel fair in Paris. The airline will operate 16 routes, including a new Toulouse–Tunis service, and provide approximately 380,000 seats for the winter season. Additionally, Transavia plans to offer 650,000 seats for the summer 2026 season. The agreement aims to support Tunisia’s goal of attracting 2 million French tourists by 2030 and ensures continued air service to destinations like Tozeur until March 2026. A new Montpellier–Djerba route is also set to launch in April 2026, with weekly flights starting at €69 one-way.
Dubai-based cargo airline SolitAir Holding has unveiled a major African expansion, adding new routes to Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Eldoret, Nairobi, Benghazi, Johannesburg, Lusaka, and Harare as part of its long-term growth strategy. The move strengthens freight connectivity between the UAE and Africa’s fast-growing cargo markets, supported by the acquisition of two additional Boeing 737-800 freighters, expanding its fleet to seven aircraft. SolitAir, which plans to grow to 20 freighters by 2027 and link over 50 cities within a six-hour radius of Dubai, aims to capitalise on Africa’s rising air cargo demand, which recorded year-on-year growth of 4.7% in April 2025 and 9.4% in July 2025 according to IATA.
flyadeal, the Saudi low-cost subsidiary of SAUDI AIRLINES, has officially entered Nigeria’s aviation market through a partnership with UNASCO Aviation Limited (UAL), pledging to improve Hajj and Umrah travel for Nigerian pilgrims. The airline, represented in West Africa by UNASCO, will operate direct flights from Abuja, Kano, and Lagos to Jeddah and Medina, reducing delays and logistical challenges faced by pilgrims and tour operators. Flyadeal emphasized efficiency, reliability, and affordability, positioning itself as a game-changer in Nigeria’s religious travel sector. Stakeholders welcomed the move but called for added support, including a local Abuja office, early publication of fares, and a dedicated WhatsApp support line.
ValueJet is set to commence direct flights from Ogun State’s Gateway International Airport (GWI) to Abuja on October 7, 2025. The airline will operate two weekly flights—on Tuesdays and Thursdays—departing GWI at 8:30 AM and arriving in Abuja at 9:45 AM; return flights will leave Abuja at 4:00 PM and land in Iperu at 5:15 PM. Tickets became available on September 25, 2025, through ValueJet’s website, travel agents, and at the airport. This development enhances connectivity for travelers in Ogun State, Ibadan, and surrounding areas, providing an alternative to the congested Lagos and Ibadan airports. The Gateway International Airport, commissioned on August 15, 2025, boasts a 4,000-meter-long runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350. This initiative is expected to stimulate trade, investment, and tourism in the region.
Congo Airways has relaunched its regional operations with the introduction of an Embraer E190, marking a strategic comeback to mid-size commercial aviation after a suspension of services. The move is designed to enhance tourism mobility within the DRC and across Central Africa, with the E190 offering fuel efficiency, competitive medium-haul performance, and more reliable scheduling. The airline’s renewed network connects Kinshasa, Brazzaville, and other regional hubs, while also improving access to the DRC’s premier attractions such as Virunga and Garamba National Parks, both UNESCO sites.The airline’s focus on affordability, supported by international partners like XINATIS of Canada, aims to democratize air access, reduce fares, and stimulate both tourism and trade. With more E190s planned, Congo Airways is positioning itself as a cornerstone carrier for Central Africa, reinforcing connectivity, supporting economic growth, and making the DRC’s rich natural and cultural assets more accessible to global travellers.
Emirates has cancelled its Madagascar-Antananarivo flights (EK707 to and EK708 from Antananarivo) for 26 September 2025 due to escalating civil unrest in the capital. The Malagasy government imposed a nighttime curfew amid protests over prolonged water and power cuts. Demonstrations have led to road blockades, looting, and clashes with police. Impacted passengers are being rebooked, and the airline is monitoring the situation closely.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Airlink has received its first Embraer E195-E2, registered ZS-ARF, marking a major step in modernizing its fleet and becoming the second African operator of the type after Air Peace. The jet flew from Embraer’s factory in Brazil to Cape Town and Johannesburg on 22 September 2025, and is the first of 10 E195-E2s scheduled for delivery through 2027 under a lease deal with Azorra. Configured in a 136-seat single-class layout, the aircraft offers greater capacity and efficiency compared to Airlink’s current 107-seat E195s, with entry into service expected in December 2025.
EGYPTAIR is preparing for a significant fleet upgrade as part of its modernization and growth strategy. On September 25, 2025, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced that the national carrier will take delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX in January 2026, marking the start of a lease agreement with US-based Air Lease Corporation for a total of 18 aircraft. The announcement, made during Madbouly’s meeting with Boeing Global President Brandon Nelson on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, underscores EgyptAir’s plan to enhance efficiency, reduce operating costs, and elevate passenger experience. The deal also reinforces the airline’s role in supporting Egypt’s economic vision, boosting tourism, creating jobs, and strengthening its competitive position in both regional and international markets.
Uganda Airlines is moving ahead with plans to expand its fleet and is seeking specialised advice for doing so. The carrier has launched a tender for technical, legal, and financial consultancy services to guide new aircraft acquisitions, with proposals due by 2 October 2025. Concurrently, the airline is negotiating dry-leases for two A320 family aircraft, either relatively young A320ceo or A320neo models, targeted for delivery in February 2026. These aircraft are expected to have either a 153-economy plus 12-business seat layout or a 190-economy plus 16-business version if using an A321. Uganda Airlines’ current fleet includes two Airbus A330-800Ns and four CRJ900LRs.
Ceiba Intercontinental, Equatorial Guinea’s national airline, has introduced a Bombardier CRJ200LR under an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) lease agreement with Kenyan private airline Dragonfly Aviation Limited (Kenya), which itself leases the aircraft from Renegade Air. The CRJ200LR, configured with 50 seats, began operations in late July 2025 and is now the airline’s only active aircraft, complementing its ATR72-500. The addition of the CRJ200LR aims to enhance connectivity for tourism and business travel in Equatorial Guinea, a country where air transport is crucial due to its geography and limited ground infrastructure.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Zanzibar has officially handed over the Pemba International Airport construction project to Spain-based Propav Infrastructure, marking a significant step towards transforming Pemba Island’s connectivity. The €170 million (approximately TZS 494 billion) project includes a 2,510-meter runway and a modern terminal capable of accommodating large aircraft such as Boeing 737’s and Airbus Aircraft A320′ families. Once completed, the airport is expected to handle up to 330,000 passengers annually, a substantial increase from the current 100,000 served by the existing 1950s-era facility. The project is anticipated to create over 1,000 direct jobs and is expected to boost tourism, improve connectivity, and attract global investment to Pemba. The funding for the project is provided through the UK‘s United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF), Deutsche Bank, and Citibank, with completion slated within three years.
DFP WORLD GROUP is set to inaugurate Zimbabwe’s first fully brand-approved duty-free store at Harare International Airport‘s new terminal. This store will exclusively feature products authorized directly by global brands, marking a significant shift from previous fragmented retail practices. The concession is managed by Duty Free Stores of Zimbabwe and supported by Afrique Duty-Free, DFP WORLD’s Namibian investment arm. Strategically located near the main food court and primary aerobridges in the sterile zone, the store is expected to open from September 26, 2025. This development aims to set a new standard for luxury travel retail in Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a new cashless and contactless payment system, named “Operation Go Cashless,” in partnership with Paystack. Set to go live on September 29, 2025, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the initiative aims to modernize airport operations by reducing cash transactions. This move is expected to enhance operational efficiency, improve revenue tracking, and provide a better passenger experience by aligning with global digital standards. To facilitate the transition, trained brand ambassadors will assist travelers, and passengers can obtain and activate a FAAN Go Cashless Card at airport access gates. FAAN plans to expand this cashless policy to other airports nationwide in phases.
Madagascar has officially received an upgraded Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System (PISCES) at Ivato International Airport, marking its first renewal since 2016. Valued at $1 million and supported by the United States, the upgrade includes new equipment and training for border police officers. The enhanced system strengthens traveler identification through biometric analysis, supports regional and international security cooperation, and improves efficiency in border management, boosting both national security and passenger processing.
The Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA) unveiled its new AI-powered digital platform, “Equip4Safety,” at the ICAO Innovation Fair in Montreal (September 21–22), aiming to simplify access to ground aviation equipment for developing countries. Presented by Director General Paule Avomo Assoumou Koki, the platform connects airlines, airports, suppliers, and operators to facilitate the purchase, sale, and exchange of equipment while promoting a circular economy. Built on the pillars of accessibility, reliability, and sustainability, it supports ICAO standards, enhances safety, and encourages ecological reuse. The initiative, aligned with ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” program, has already attracted international interest, including from the UAE, and is part of Cameroon’s wider advocacy for equitable global aviation safety.
Ethiopian Airlines has set an ambitious target to reach $25 billion in annual revenue by 2035, supported by a fleet of 271 aircraft serving 209 international and 31 domestic destinations. The airline plans to carry 67.2 million passengers annually, expand its network to Australia as the sixth continent served, and increase flight frequencies on key routes. Central to the strategy are fleet modernization, training 300 new pilots annually, and the construction of a $10 billion mega-airport near Addis Ababa capable of handling 100 million passengers per year by 2029. Already Africa’s largest and most profitable carrier, Ethiopian Airlines believes the plan will cement its position as a global aviation leader while elevating Africa’s presence on the world aviation stage.
Kenya Airways has been granted an exemption from Kenya’s new Significant Economic Presence (SEP) tax for its software and avionics suppliers, under draft regulations released in September 2025 by the Treasury. The tax carve-out applies specifically because the Kenyan government owns over 45 percent of Kenya Airways (KQ actually holds 48.9 percent), meaning its digital service providers are spared the SEP levy. The move relieves KQ of potentially massive added costs tied to its digital backbone—ranging from reservation systems to avionics—at a time when the airline is already grappling with debt and operational pressures.
QuickAir, an aviation technology firm in Nigeria, has relaunched its domestic Global Distribution System (GDS) platform under new leadership. The updated system offers travel agents real-time access to flight inventories from major Nigerian airlines, multi-airline booking, competitive pricing, and integrated payment methods. It’s part of a restructuring to resolve issues like fragmented booking systems and to make aviation booking more efficient. QuickAir aims to process up to ?50 billion (approx. USD 33 million) in bookings in its first year and to restore all previous user wallet balances after suspending operations in late 2022.
VISA/Passports/Consulates/Travel.
Starting 25 September 2025, Morocco introduced a temporary Electronic Travel Authorization (AEVM) for fans from eight African countries—Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Gabon, Niger, Senegal, Togo, and Tunisia—traveling to attend AFCON 2025. The system, in place until 25 January 2026, required supporters to apply online via the Yalla platform, which also issued Fan IDs, linked with match tickets, and granted access to fan zones, reducing duplicate checks at airports and stadiums. Airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, and border officials verified AEVM passes alongside passports during boarding and entry. Designed to streamline flows of football supporters while enhancing security, the initiative reflected Morocco’s broader shift toward electronic pre-clearance and visa facilitation. Once AFCON ends, the authorization is expected to be withdrawn, and regular entry procedures for the affected nationalities will resume.
Starting October 12, 2025, the European Union will implement new travel regulations for non-EU visitors, including those from Africa. Under the Entry/Exit System (EES), travelers will no longer receive manual passport stamps; instead, biometric data—fingerprints and facial images—will be collected electronically at border crossings. This shift aims to enhance border security and streamline entry and exit processes. Full implementation is expected by April 2026. Additionally, from 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) online before their trip. To facilitate smoother processing, travelers should ensure they possess a biometric passport and consider pre-registering their data when possible. These changes are designed to improve efficiency and security in the EU’s border management system.
People/Appointments.
At the 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly on 27 September 2025, elections were held for PART I and PART II of the ICAO Council, which will serve a three-year term as the Organization’s 36-member governing body. PART I (States of Chief Importance in Air Transport) elected Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. PART II (States not in Part I but contributing significantly to international civil air navigation) elected Argentina, Colombia, Denmark, Egypt, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, and Switzerland. Elections for PART III, which ensures broader geographic representation, are scheduled for 30 September 2025.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has issued a seven-day strike notice to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), citing six key grievances. In a letter dated September 23, KAWU accused the KAA Board of incompetence, poor governance, and bad decisions, including the controversial Adani lease deal, and demanded the board’s resignation. The union also opposed the transfer of the Ground Flight Safety department to KCAA, warning of job and revenue losses. Other issues raised include failure to confirm over 500 contract staff, lack of appointment letters for promoted employees, unpaid overtime dues at Wilson Airport, and the dismantling of the HR department which has stalled staff welfare and CBA processes. KAWU warned that if the grievances are not resolved within the notice period, employees will down tools.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Morocco received formal recognition from ICAO during the 42nd Assembly in Montreal for major advances in its civil aviation system. Transport Minister Abdessamad Kayouh was presented with a certificate by ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano honoring Morocco’s effective safety oversight, regulatory compliance, and improved implementation of ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). Oversight missions conducted in 2023 and 2024—covering areas such as flight safety, air navigation security, and airport certification—confirmed the progress. The recognition also coincides with Morocco’s candidacy for an ICAO Council seat and reflects its ambitions to strengthen international cooperation, elevate aviation safety, and establish itself as a regional hub in civil aviation governance.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
A Delta Air Lines flight (DL055) from Lagos to Atlanta made an emergency diversion to Accra on September 23 after a fire broke out in the aircraft’s oven. The fire was quickly contained with no danger to passengers, but the delay caused the crew to exceed duty time, preventing continuation of the flight. Delta rebooked stranded passengers on its Accra–New York service the same evening and on partner airlines including Air France, British Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Lufthansa, while others were accommodated until the next scheduled Delta flight on September 26. The airline also cancelled its inbound Atlanta–Lagos service for September 25, provided hotel stays and ground transport, and assured passengers of ongoing support.
On the evening of September 21, 2025, a serious aviation incident occurred at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport when a Nouvelair Tunisia A320 flight overflew an easyJet A320 that was preparing for departure. The Nouvelair aircraft, arriving from Tunis, passed approximately 50 feet above the easyJet plane, which was descending through 50 feet on Runway 04R. The Nouvelair flight initiated a go-around and landed safely 16 minutes later, while the easyJet flight returned to the gate and was subsequently canceled. The French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA) has opened an investigation into the incident, classifying it as serious. Preliminary findings indicate that the Nouvelair flight was cleared to land on Runway 04L, not 04R, leading to the near miss. Both aircraft were Airbus A320-214 models, with tail heights of approximately 38 feet, 7 inches. The incident occurred amid thunderstorms in the vicinity of the airport, as indicated by the METAR and weather radar data.
Other information:
Donald Trump has announced that he will order the declassification of secret U.S. government records related to the 1937 disappearance of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, whose fate has remained one of history’s greatest mysteries. Earhart vanished while attempting to circumnavigate the globe, with the official explanation being that she ran out of fuel and crashed into the Pacific Ocean near Howland Island, though no wreckage has ever been found. Over the decades, alternative theories have suggested she was captured by the Japanese or stranded on Nikumaroro Island, fueling speculation of a government cover-up due to restricted records. While some FBI and Navy documents have been released in the past, Trump said all files connected to Earhart’s final trip will now be made public. The move comes amid renewed interest in her story, with researchers recently suggesting they may have located her plane using sonar mapping near Howland Island.
Algeria has launched a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) pilot project in partnership with Air Algérie, utilizing refinery residues and used cooking oils to reduce aviation emissions. Announced during Expo 2025 in Osaka, the initiative is part of Algeria’s broader clean energy strategy, which also includes investments in hydrogen and green shipping technologies. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of local SAF production, enhance energy security by reducing reliance on imported fuels, and position Algeria as a leading African player in the global push toward net-zero aviation. If successful, it could serve as a model for scaling up SAF production and accelerating the adoption of sustainable fuels across the aviation sector.
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