(Posted 11th November 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd and Mr. Alex Koech you can read every week the arguably most comprehensive aviation updates available from all over Africa.
Introduction.
Global air?cargo volumes rose by 4% year?on?year in October 2025, according to Xeneta data, driven mainly by strong trade between Asia and Europe. While this increase exceeded expectations, it came against a backdrop of weakening trade signals—most notably a 6% drop in Europe–North America cargo volumes. The supply side expanded more rapidly, with capacity up 5%, creating a mismatch that placed downward pressure on rates. Spot freight rates fell by 3% to?US?$2.58/kg, while long?term contract rates dropped 8% to?US?$2.31/kg. On key routes, Asia Pacific to Europe freight demand rose by 11%—but that was below the 16% growth seen the previous year—and spot rates climbed just 5%, compared to 9% a year earlier. These dynamics suggest cost pressure for carriers, a favourable environment for shippers, and mixed implications for regions like Africa, where lower rates could boost exports of perishables but slower global demand may limit broader cargo growth.
Conferences & Events.
The 36th?International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) Africa & Middle East Regional Meeting was held from 3–7?November?2025 at the Peniel Retreat Centre in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Hosted by the Air Traffic Controllers Association of Zimbabwe (ATCAZ) with support from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) and the Ministry of Transport &?Infrastructural Development, the conference brought together air?traffic professionals from across Africa and the Middle East. The theme, “Securing the Skies: Strengthening Air Traffic Management Capacity through Strategic Recruitment, Training &?Retention,” reflected a focus on human?capital development in air?traffic control amid growing automation. The programme featured high?level addresses, ministerial panel discussions including the IFATCA President and regional EVP, technical working sessions on recruitment, training, and retention of controllers, and two days of dedicated training workshops (6–7?Nov).
The capital of Gabon, Libreville, hosted the inaugural meeting of the Africa–Indian Ocean Aviation System Planning and Implementation Group (AASPG/1) from 3–7 November 2025. The gathering brought together senior civil aviation authorities and industry stakeholders under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) framework to advance regional cooperation in air navigation planning, safety oversight, and operational harmonization across the Africa–Indian Ocean corridor. The session also marked the formal establishment of the group’s first bureau and signified the transition from the previous structures—the African–Indian Ocean Planning and Implementation Regional Group (APIRG) and Regional Aviation Safety Group – Africa–Indian Ocean (RASG–AFI), which the AASPG replaced.
AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.
Aegean Airlines has received approval from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) to operate direct flights from Athens to Mauritius and the Seychelles, potentially launching in the summer of 2026. The airline is authorized to operate three weekly flights to Port Louis, Mauritius, and four weekly flights to Victoria, Seychelles, using Airbus A320/A321 family aircraft, including the A320neo and A321neo. AEGEAN must comply with all Greek, European, and international aviation regulations, with permits requiring commencement of operations within six months of destination country approvals.
Air Europa has been granted authorization by Spain’s Dirección General de Aviación Civil (DGCA) to operate three weekly direct flights between Spain and South Africa, marking the first nonstop connection between the two countries since 2019. The DGCA has opened up to nine weekly frequencies for this route, with six remaining available for other airlines. While the authorization has been granted, the flights have not yet launched, as operational, regulatory, and infrastructure details still need to be finalized, including routing, aircraft allocation, and schedules. This new service is expected to reopen a strategic Europe–Southern Africa corridor previously served by Iberia, enhancing regional connectivity and competition, and providing South African travelers direct access to Spain and Spanish travelers a gateway to Southern Africa.
The Egyptian Cabinet, under Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, has approved an extension of the exemption from incentive fees for airlines until December 2026, aiming to encourage carriers and increase inbound air traffic to Egypt’s tourist airports. This policy applies to airlines from all countries and is designed to strengthen Egypt’s position as a key regional tourism hub.
The self-declared region of Somaliland has announced that, effective 10 November 2025, all civil aircraft—scheduled, non-scheduled, commercial, and general aviation—must obtain prior overflight permits before entering or transiting its airspace. This directive comes amid an escalating visa dispute with the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), following Somalia’s introduction of an e-visa requirement on 1 September 2025 that Somaliland insists does not apply within its territory. The move by Somaliland’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Development is aimed at asserting its sovereignty over its airspace and ensuring compliance with international aviation protocols related to air traffic management, safety, and search-and-rescue operations.
Aviation Projections and Statistics.
Cairo International Airport recorded strong growth in October 2025, handling 2,586,061 passengers, a 6% increase from 2,441,882 in October 2024. Flight movements also rose by 5%, totaling 18,719 flights compared to 17,807 in the same period last year. This growth reflects the airport’s enhanced services, operational efficiency, and strategic role as Egypt’s primary aviation hub. Continuous investments in infrastructure, including expanded runway capacity, additional gates, and improved air traffic management, have enabled Cairo to manage higher passenger and flight volumes effectively.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (RGMIA) in Harare, Zimbabwe, has experienced significant growth in 2025, handling 1,191,309 passengers between January and September, up from 1,101,030 in the same period in 2024, representing an 8.19% increase. This surge follows infrastructure upgrades completed in 2023, which expanded the airport’s annual capacity from 2.5?million to 6?million passengers. The second quarter of 2025 alone saw a 13.9% increase in passenger traffic, from 347,080 to 395,267, and a 19.8% rise in flight operations, with 6,931 flights compared to 5,787 the previous quarter. The strong growth is largely driven by Zimbabwe’s recovering tourism and aviation sectors, increased connectivity, and continued investment in airport modernisation, positioning RGMIA as a more efficient and competitive hub in the region.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Egypt and the United States have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance security and operational efficiency at Cairo International Airport (CAI). The agreement provides a U.S. grant for advanced security screening technology and specialized training for aviation personnel, aligning the airport with international safety standards. Signed by U.S. Ambassador Hero Mustafa Garg and Cairo Airport Company Chairman Magdy Ishaq, and witnessed by Egyptian civil aviation officials including Minister Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, the MoU underscores long-standing bilateral cooperation. The initiative, supported by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), is expected to improve passenger flow, strengthen regional and global aviation security, and represents a significant upgrade to CAI’s safety infrastructure, reflecting a mutual commitment to technical collaboration and expertise exchange in the civil aviation sector.
On 5 November 2025, Angola and Germany strengthened their cooperation in civil aviation through the signing of key agreements during a high-level meeting between Presidents João Lourenço and Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The two countries exchanged Letters of Approval for the Air Transport Services Agreement, which is designed to facilitate air connections and promote bilateral technical collaboration. In a parallel development, Angolan Transport Minister Ricardo Viegas De Abreu and Lufthansa Consulting CEO Hannes Müller, in collaboration with TAAG-ANGOLA AIRLINES LIMITED, signed a contract to support the restructuring and modernization of the national carrier, covering areas such as corporate governance, operations, and route development.
Qatar Airways and Air Algérie have launched a new codeshare partnership aimed at expanding network access and strengthening cooperation between the Middle East and Africa, marking a significant step in Qatar Airways’ African growth strategy. Effective for travel beginning 15 November 2025, the agreement builds upon the carriers’ existing interline relationship to offer seamless connectivity through Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha. Under the new arrangement, Qatar Airways passengers will gain easier access to Algiers and six domestic destinations in Algeria — Annaba, Constantine, Oran, Tamanrasset, Timimoun, and Tindouf — while Air Algérie customers will benefit from expanded travel options to Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Muscat, with plans to include additional destinations in the near future. Members of Qatar Airways Privilege Club will also earn Avios on codeshare flights operated by Air Algérie.
Kenya Airways (KQ) and Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUH) have signed a partnership in Nairobi aimed at transforming medical travel across Africa by improving access to specialized healthcare. The agreement integrates KQ Health’s regional network with AKUH’s internationally accredited medical services, covering oncology, cardiology, surgery, and critical care. Under the partnership, KQ Health will manage patient logistics, including pre-travel medical clearance, in-flight assistance, and ambulance transfers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to AKUH. The initiative aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goal of establishing the country as a leading regional medical hub, reducing the need for Africans to seek treatment abroad, and providing care closer to home in a familiar cultural environment.
Uganda Airlines has partnered with BLUEGRASS DIGITAL LIMITED to undertake a complete redesign and rebuild of its official website, www.ugandaairlines.com, as part of its broader digital transformation strategy. The project aims to create a modern, mobile-first, and customer-centric platform that enhances speed, usability, and self-service. Built on Optimizely DXP, the new website will seamlessly integrate with the airline’s Amadeus RefX and Amadeus Instant Search systems, enabling real-time flight booking, pricing, and management. Travelers will enjoy improved features such as online check-in, booking management, refund requests, and flight tracking, reducing reliance on call centres.
FlyNamibia and fastjet have launched a strategic partnership effective November 1, 2025, aligning FlyNamibia’s Windhoek–Victoria Falls flights with Fastjet’s Victoria Falls–Harare services to enhance regional connectivity across Southern Africa. The collaboration offers seamless travel between Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, reducing layover times, increasing schedule flexibility, and improving access for business, tourism, and cross-border travel. By connecting key destinations like Windhoek, Victoria Falls, and Harare, the partnership aims to stimulate regional economic growth, boost tourism to major attractions such as Victoria Falls, and facilitate trade and cultural exchange.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
Etihad has strengthened its North African footprint with the launch of a new Abu Dhabi–Tunis service, which commenced on November 1, 2025. Operating three times a week, the route marks a significant step in Etihad’s broader global expansion and underscores Tunisia’s growing importance as both a tourism and business destination. The new connection is expected to enhance bilateral relations between the UAE and Tunisia, facilitating increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
On 4 November 2025, South African Airways (SAA) launched a double-daily service between Johannesburg (JNB) and Gaborone (GBE), significantly enhancing regional connectivity across Southern Africa. The new route strengthens economic, business, and tourism ties between South Africa and Botswana by providing convenient and efficient travel options for both leisure and business passengers. It also supports the growth of tourism, with easier access to Botswana’s luxury safari destinations, the Okavango Delta, and South Africa’s urban and cultural attractions.
British Airways has officially inaugurated a new air route connecting London Gatwick with Morocco’s capital, Rabat, with the inaugural flight taking off on Wednesday, November 6, 2025. The outbound flight departed London at 07:50 local time, arriving in Rabat at 12:05, while the return flight leaves Rabat at 12:55, landing in London at 15:10. On Sundays, the service will operate slightly earlier, with departures from London at 07:10 and Rabat at 12:15. The route will be operated by British Airways’ short-haul subsidiary BA Euroflyer, based at Gatwick, and is part of the airline’s broader expansion of its short-haul network announced in July.
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, Sirte Gulf International Airport in Libya welcomed its first international flight since completing extensive reconstruction, rehabilitation, and modernization under the National Development Agency, with support from the General Command. The inaugural flight, carrying 129 Umrah pilgrims and a child, departed for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in restoring the airport’s strategic role in Libya’s air traffic and demonstrating the success of national infrastructure development projects.
Emirates is set to expand its Dubai–Cairo operations, introducing a fifth daily flight from 1 December 2025, initially adding six weekly flights for the peak winter season before moving to a daily schedule from 1 February 2026. During the interim period, flights will depart Dubai at 10:45 and arrive in Cairo at 13:00, returning from Cairo at 14:40 to reach Dubai at 19:55. From February, departures will shift to 04:00 from Dubai, arriving in Cairo at 06:15, with return flights leaving Cairo at 08:00 and reaching Dubai at 13:15. This expansion makes Cairo Emirates’ most-served African destination with the highest number of Airbus A380 operations outside Dubai, reflecting growing demand from GCC travellers—bookings to Egypt have increased 12%—and boosted by attractions like The Grand Egyptian Museum.
Air Sénégal S.A has announced the launch of a new direct route connecting Dakar to Brussels, set to commence on December 9, 2025, with three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This marks the airline’s second European destination after Paris Aéroport – Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and represents a strategic expansion aimed at strengthening connectivity between West Africa and Europe. The new service will facilitate smoother travel for passengers from key West African cities such as Banjul, Nouakchott, Conakry, and Bamako through Dakar, enhancing regional and international connectivity.
FlyNamibia has announced a significant expansion of its regional operations, set to take effect in April 2026, by doubling its Windhoek–Victoria Falls service from three to six weekly flights and increasing flights on the Windhoek–Maun–Katima Mulilo route to four per week. In addition to the frequency boost, FlyNamibia has partnered with Fastjet to enhance connectivity between Windhoek and Harare via Victoria Falls, starting November 1, 2025. The partnership synchronizes FlyNamibia’s Windhoek–Victoria Falls schedule with Fastjet’s Victoria Falls–Harare route, providing passengers with smoother connections and broader access across Southern Africa, reflecting the airline’s strategy to strengthen regional network connectivity and improve travel convenience for its customers.
Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines is exploring the launch of fifth freedom flights between Belgrade and Morocco, aiming to expand its network into North Africa. The airline, building on its newly inaugurated Astana–Belgrade route, is in discussions with Serbia’s Civil Aviation Directorate to secure traffic rights, with talks also involving Air Serbia to facilitate onward ticketing for passengers. Due to Morocco’s distance from Kazakhstan, an intermediate stop is required, with Belgrade identified as a convenient hub. Officials from Serbia and Kazakhstan met on Monday to discuss the proposal, with another meeting planned later this year to potentially finalise an agreement, targeting a 2026 launch.
As the 2025/26 tourist season begins, On November 2, 2025 Banjul International Airport welcomed 88 tourists on a maiden TUI Holland flight, marking part of The Gambia’s increasing inbound tourism. The arrival was celebrated with officials from the Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) and the Ministry of Tourism, accompanied by a local Fula cultural performance. Foday Bah, GTBoard’s Head of Marketing, highlighted the growing partnership with the TUI group, noting that TUI Holland, TUI Belgium, and TUI UK will collectively provide four weekly flights, with additional charter flights from Holland by Corendon bringing the total to five weekly arrivals from that market alone.
Regional South African carrier Airlink announced the immediate suspension of its daily flights between Johannesburg and Maseru (via Moshoeshoe I International Airport in Lesotho) after determining that the airport lacked “serviceable fire and rescue equipment,” a critical safety requirement under international aviation standards. The halt—affecting five daily flights—was implemented to uphold passenger and cargo safety until compliance is restored. Authorities in Lesotho confirmed that the necessary safety equipment had been sourced, and Airlink indicated flights would resume once the airport’s emergency response capability was fully re?established.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
On November 3, 2025, Air Mauritius took delivery of a 9.6-year-old ATR 72-600 (72-212A) aircraft registered as 3B-NCV and named “Ile aux Aigrettes.” The turboprop, powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines, was leased from DAE Capital. The aircraft had previously carried the registration OY-NZK under DAE Capital and ES-ATL under Xfly and TAP Express operations, with earlier service history linked to White Airways. After being stored at Toulouse-Francazal Airport (LFBF) from October 31, 2023, to November 3, 2025, the aircraft was ferried on its delivery route from LFBF–ATH–LXR–JED–NBO–MRU between November 3 and 5, 2025, before joining the Air Mauritius fleet. The delivery marks a continued fleet modernization effort by the airline, enhancing its regional connectivity capabilities across the Indian Ocean network.
On November 4, 2025, the Angolan Air Force took delivery of two Airbus Aircraft C-295MPA Persuader aircraft, registered as R-751 and R-752, marking a significant boost to the nation’s maritime surveillance and patrol capabilities. Both aircraft are configured for Maritime Patrol operations and are powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G engines. The C-295MPA is equipped with advanced mission systems designed for coastal surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare, enhancing Angola’s ability to monitor its extensive Atlantic coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The first aircraft, R-751, is 1.2 years old, while the second, R-752, is 1.1 years old, reflecting their relatively recent manufacture and state-of-the-art technology.
On November 7, 2025, TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola took delivery of a 4.7-year-old Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, registered as D2-TET and named “Deolinda Rodrigues.” The aircraft, powered by two GE Aerospacenx-1B74/75 engines, carries a special “50 Years of Angolan Independence” sticker to commemorate the nation’s milestone. Initially built for Vietnam Airlines as VN-A876 but not taken up, the aircraft was later used by Boeing as a testbed under registration N8290V, featuring “ecoDemonstrator Explorer” markings. Following its testing phase, the aircraft was placed into storage at Victorville (VCV) before being prepared for delivery to TAAG.
Air Peace Limited has achieved a major milestone by taking delivery of a 19.5 year old Boeing 737-NG registered EI-HRN on a dry lease, becoming the first Nigerian airline in over ten years to complete such a leasing arrangement. The aircraft was formally received at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammad Airport in a ceremony attended by top aviation officials, including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who commended the collaboration among government agencies, Boeing, and the lessor, AerCap. A dry lease arrangement means the airline assumes full operational responsibility, including crew, insurance, and maintenance.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has launched a public tender for a major new terminal at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport‘s, marking one of the largest aviation infrastructure projects in the country’s history, valued at MAD 10 billion ($1 billion). Announced on Tuesday, the H-shaped terminal will initially accommodate 20 million passengers annually, expandable to 30 million, spanning 600,000 square meters with a central processor building and two jetties designed for optimal passenger flow, baggage handling, and boarding bridge utilization. The project follows an international call for interest in May, attracting around 20 companies from Morocco, China, and Turkey, and is divided into nine sub-lots over a 40-month execution period, with site preparation by STAM already 40% complete. Designed by a consortium including Ala Concept, RSHP Architects, and Egis Bâtiment International, the terminal emphasizes modular construction, rapid assembly, waste reduction, and integration with a future high-speed rail line connecting Tangier and Marrakech. The development is part of the broader MAD 28 billion ($2.8 billion) “Airports 2030” investment program, which aims to more than double Morocco’s airport capacity to 80 million passengers by 2030.
Mozambique has unveiled a comprehensive Civil Aviation Master Plan (2026–2045), estimating a total investment of around €613 million ($710 million) over the next two decades to modernize the country’s airports and aviation sector. The plan outlines 179 short-term, 34 medium-term, and four long-term actions across nine strategic pillars, including strengthening the legislative and institutional framework, improving air connectivity and regional integration, enhancing airport security, modernizing infrastructure, optimizing operational efficiency, and developing human resources. Short-term investments of approximately €380 million ($440 million) are earmarked for the modernization of Maputo, Beira, and Nacala international airports, with funding expected from a mix of national resources, development partners, and public-private partnerships. The strategy also introduces a new national civil aviation policy to replace the 2002 framework, aligning Mozambique with international safety and operational standards.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a directive preventing the sale or transfer of properties belonging to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) within and around airport premises, emphasizing that these assets remain exclusively for aviation use. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, clarified that essential personnel such as firefighters and navigational officers must reside on airport grounds to ensure rapid emergency response. The government also reaffirmed that ongoing concessions of non-viable airports, including Port Harcourt International Airport, will not result in job losses, with staff redeployed as needed. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved several aviation initiatives, including contracts for maintenance of Aeronautical Information Management systems across five international airports, nationwide deployment of advanced TETRA communication systems, installation of 14 VHF remote communication systems for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), purchase of 15 airport rescue and firefighting vehicles, and a purpose-built headquarters for NAMA in Abuja. Additionally, FEC endorsed a contactless biometric passenger verification system linked to the National Identification Number to prevent identity fraud and approved airfield lighting upgrades to extend airport operational hours.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has partnered with U.S.-based Securiport to launch a new national border and airport security platform aimed at enhancing passenger screening, identity verification, and data-sharing across airports and entry points. The initiative follows a Build–Train–Maintain–Transfer (BTMT) model, whereby Securiport finances, installs, and maintains the system while training Congolese staff, with full operational ownership eventually transferring to the government. The system incorporates advanced technologies such as biometric verification, automated border control gates, and centralized data management to improve security and operational efficiency. As part of the arrangement, a US$30 fee per international passenger has been proposed, with 85% allocated to Securiport and 15% to the DRC government, raising discussions about cost burden and revenue distribution.
Morocco has finalized a landmark agreement with French aerospace giant Safran to establish Africa’s largest aircraft-engine assembly hub in the Midparc industrial zone in Nouaceur, positioning the country among the few worldwide capable of full aircraft engine assembly. The €350 million ($380 million approx.) investment will feature a final assembly plant for LEAP-1A engines, which power Airbus Aircraft A320neo alongside a maintenance and repair facility. The project is expected to produce up to 350 engines annually, service 150 engines per year, and create nearly 900 direct jobs by 2030, reflecting a major technological leap from Morocco’s previous focus on engine covers to full reactor production, including hot sections requiring advanced metallurgy. The initiative strengthens Safran’s two-decade presence in Morocco and complements the nation’s rapidly growing aerospace sector, which saw exports surge 17.3% in 2024 to MAD 21.86 billion ($2.1 billion).
.The Kenyan government has proposed a major expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Kenya Airways (KQ) to the Emir of Qatar as part of efforts to attract foreign investment into the aviation sector. President William Ruto, speaking in Doha, highlighted plans to mobilize approximately Sh200 billion (? USD 1.5 billion) through private sector participation to fund the project, emphasizing the need for a new airport and referencing Qatar’s ongoing airport development in Rwanda as a comparable model. This initiative follows the government’s earlier decision to cancel a Sh138 billion (? USD 1.0 billion) expansion plan with India’s Adani Group due to legal challenges and public opposition to the proposed 30-year management agreement.
The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) reported a strong financial performance for the 2024/25 fiscal year, as presented in its integrated annual report to Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi on November 8, 2025. The authority received an unqualified audit opinion, reflecting transparency and sound financial management. Chairperson Bethuel Mujetenga highlighted that NCAA’s operational loss was reduced to just N$1 million, a significant improvement from N$8 million the previous year, while comprehensive profit nearly doubled to N$52 million from N$25 million. Total assets grew by 66% to reach N$1 billion, driven by investments and asset transfers. This performance aligns with the NCAA’s five-year integrated strategic business plan, which emphasizes financial stability, safety and security oversight, optimization of air navigation services, customer engagement, and organizational transformation.
The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc recorded impressive financial growth for the first nine months of 2025, posting a profit before tax of ?17.9 billion (approximately $11.8 million) and a 47% rise in net earnings, reflecting strong operational performance and market expansion. Total revenue increased by 40.7% from ?33.95 billion to ?47.76 billion (about $22.4 million to $31.6 million), driven by renewed contracts and expanded logistics services. Net profit rose to ?13.46 billion (around $8.9 million), with earnings per share climbing from ?4.71 to ?6.91. The company’s assets also grew to ?48.64 billion (approximately $32.2 million), supported by investments in digitization, equipment re-fleeting, and ESG initiatives. NAHCO secured major regulatory approvals, including authorization to handle radioactive shipments—the first of its kind in Nigeria—and expanded partnerships with airlines.
AFRIQIYAH AIRWAYS, Libya’s national carrier, has made significant progress in its recovery efforts by repaying nearly LYD?280?million (approximately US?$52?million) in accumulated debt incurred between 2011 and 2022. This repayment is part of a broader strategy to stabilise the airline financially after years of operational disruption and mismanagement. As part of its recovery, Afriqiyah has also returned several aircraft that had been grounded abroad in countries such as Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey, and Bulgaria to active service, signaling a restoration of operational capacity. The current management uncovered multiple administrative, technical, and financial violations from prior periods, which have been referred for legal action. The airline’s debt settlement and restructuring are critical not only for its own sustainability but also for Libya’s broader aviation, tourism, and connectivity recovery.
VISA/Passports/Consulates/Travel.
Starting 4 November 2025, South Korea enforced a travel ban on Mali due to the country’s escalating security crisis, reflecting growing international concern over the deteriorating conditions. Mali has faced severe instability since 2020, driven by Islamist insurgencies, separatist movements, and the withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces, leaving the government unable to maintain control. High-risk areas include the capital Bamako and cities such as Gao, Kidal, and Mopti, while border regions and parts of southern Mali remain vulnerable.
People/Appointments.
Airwork Africa has appointed Michiel Swanepoel FRAeS as its new Executive General Manager to spearhead the company’s growth strategy across the continent. Swanepoel will focus on securing key humanitarian and government contracts while expanding the firm’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities to strengthen its operational footprint in Africa. With over 15 years of aviation experience, including leadership roles at the @South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the Department of Transport, Swanepoel brings a blend of operational and managerial expertise.
Emirates has appointed Omar Bushlaibi and Ahmed Ismail to lead its Zimbabwe and Zambia country offices, respectively, effective November 1, 2025, as part of the airline’s global strategy to expand its network and attract top-tier aviation talent. Bushlaibi, previously Zambia’s country manager and interim manager for Zimbabwe, brings 11 years of Emirates experience, including leadership roles in Oman, India, and Bangladesh, and will oversee operations in Zimbabwe. Ismail, taking charge in Zambia, joined Emirates in 2024 and previously worked with Ernst & Young MENA and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Both will manage sales, service, passenger and cargo operations, and airport functions.
The South African state-owned Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has announced the departure of its CEO, Nozipho M., effective October 31, 2025, following a mutual agreement with the board to end her contract early. Mdawe had been on precautionary leave since March during an independent investigation into operational and governance issues within ATNS, which ultimately cleared her of any wrongdoing. According to board chairperson Zola Majavu, the decision allows both parties a “fresh start.” Mdawe, who led the organization for three years, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the aviation sector and wished the company and its stakeholders well. ATNS acknowledged her professionalism during the inquiry and stated that the separation was amicable, with no further comments to be made by either side.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
The Gabon Civil Aviation Authority was awarded an ICAO Council President Certificate in recognition of its notable progress in aviation security oversight, as confirmed during the recent ICAO Universal Security Oversight Audit Programme (USAP) audit. Presented by ICAO WACAF Regional Director Romain EKOTO on behalf of Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano, the certificate acknowledges Gabon’s advancement in establishing an effective aviation security oversight system and its continued commitment to implementing ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). The award was presented during the inaugural Africa–Indian Ocean Aviation System Planning and Implementation Group (AASPG/1) meeting in Libreville.
At the 2025 Africa Tourism Awards held on 1 November 2025 at the Hilton London Canary Wharf, Cape Town International Airport was honoured as the Best International Airport, recognizing its outstanding infrastructure, service quality, and connectivity that enhance Africa’s tourism appeal. In the same ceremony, the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Prof. Dr. Wolfgang H Thome, founder of ATC news, in recognition of his decades-long contributions to promoting and advancing African tourism. These awards celebrated both institutional excellence in aviation and individual leadership in the development of the continent’s tourism sector.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines celebrated 65 years of uninterrupted service to Ghana on November 7, 2025, marking it as the last European carrier still operating the original routes established during Africa’s independence era while competitors withdrew or collapsed. Since its first flight to Accra on November 1, 1960, KLM has maintained daily Amsterdam–Accra services, demonstrating resilience through Ghana’s political transitions, economic cycles, currency devaluations, and regional instability. The airline’s enduring presence has strengthened bilateral relations, supported trade, tourism, and investment, and provided training and employment opportunities for Ghanaian aviation professionals.
Lawsuits/Investigations.
A U.S. federal judge, has dismissed the criminal conspiracy case against Boeing related to two deadly 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people, including all passengers and crew. The dismissal follows a federal agreement requiring Boeing to pay or invest $1.1 billion in fines, victim compensation, and internal safety and quality improvements. The crashes were linked to faulty flight-control software that repeatedly pushed the plane’s nose down, and investigators found Boeing failed to fully inform the Federal Aviation Administration about software changes before certification. Despite emotional appeals from victims’ families for a trial or a special prosecutor, the Justice Department argued the agreement better served the public interest and noted that some families supported resolving the case without trial. The Max had been grounded worldwide for 20 months after the Ethiopia crash while Boeing redesigned the software.
The Industrial Court has ordered Uganda Airlines to pay approximately Shs 455 million (~USD 123,000) to former CEO Cornwell Muleya for wrongful dismissal, citing both procedural and substantive unfairness. Muleya, who was sacked in 2021, had initially been placed on leave and subsequently suspended multiple times without a proper disciplinary hearing, which the court ruled was unlawful. Justice Anthony Wabwire Musana found that the airline failed to provide Muleya a fair opportunity to defend himself, rendering his dismissal a disguised and illegal termination. The court directed payments including Shs 252 million (~USD 68,000) in severance pay, Shs 77 million (~USD 21,000) for unpaid disciplinary hearing allowance, Shs 126 million (~USD 34,000) in general damages, and Shs 460,800 (~USD 125) for unpaid gratuity, highlighting the airline’s failure to comply with employment regulations.
A U.S. veteran is suing EGYPTAIR for US?$5?million after he allegedly pricked his hand on a used hypodermic needle left in the seat?back pocket during flight MS981 from Cairo to Washington, D.C. on 16?October?2024. The federal lawsuit was filed on 18?October?2025 in Alexandria, Virginia. The passenger — identified only as “John?Doe” — said the ensuing months were filled with uncertainty, emotional distress, and fear of contracting HIV or hepatitis, because EgyptAir failed to identify or provide information about the prior occupant of the seat. He claimed the airline breached its duty to properly clean the cabin and remove hazardous objects before flights, putting him through post?exposure prophylactic treatment, significant emotional trauma, and marital strain. Although he has since received a clean bill of health, the lawsuit contends the psychological impact, medical interventions, and damage to his personal life warrant the $5?million demand.
Aviation Accidents/Incidences.
On November 3, 2025, at approximately 19:30 UTC, an Air Côte d’Ivoire Airbus A320-214 (registration TU-TSV, MSN 7742) sustained minor damage while standing at Libreville Airport (LBV/FOOL) in Gabon after completing flight HF824 from Cotonou (COO/DBBB). The incident occurred when the aircraft was struck by a boarding bridge following arrival. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or injuries among passengers or crew, and no external casualties were reported. The 2017-manufactured aircraft, powered by CFMI CFM56-5B4/P engines, was subsequently repaired and ferried to Abidjan (ABJ) on November 6, where it resumed regular passenger service the following day.
On November 4, 2025, a Sudan Air Force Ilyushin Il-76 cargo aircraft crashed in West Kordofan State near Babanusa, Sudan, resulting in the deaths of all five occupants, reportedly Russian crew members. The aircraft was completely destroyed in the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the accident was caused by a technical malfunction while the aircraft was en route; however, alternative accounts indicate that it may have been shot down using an FK-2000 air defense system. The Il-76 was said to have been recently acquired from Kyrgyzstan, and the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation amid conflicting reports from local and international sources.
It is alleged that a tragic incident occurred on 8 November 2025, during a TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola Airlines flight from Luanda to Maputo (DT5781), in which an adult female passenger of Angolan nationality reportedly died following a medical emergency on board. According to the airline’s statement, the cabin crew responded immediately by administering first aid and requesting emergency medical assistance upon arrival in Maputo. However, upon landing, Mozambican medico-legal authorities allegedly declared the passenger deceased at the scene. Subsequent investigations were conducted on board the aircraft to determine the cause of death, after which the plane was cleaned and disinfected in line with regulatory standards. TAAG has since expressed its deepest condolences to the passenger’s family and friends.
It is alleged that three young women from Botswana, aged between 20 and 23, were rescued at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg after being trafficked under false promises of lucrative jobs in Sierra?Leone. The women were reportedly en?route via South Africa and Nairobi when officers from INTERPOL and the Germiston Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit intercepted them following concerns raised by the Botswana High Commission. An investigation has since been launched into the alleged trafficking ring that targeted them, amid growing concerns about airport and transportation?system vulnerabilities being exploited by traffickers.
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