(Posted 04th February 2025)
Courtesy of Aero Trail Ltd. and Mr. Alex Koech
Introduction.
Kenya Airways (KQ) has successfully regained its EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency Part 145 certification, three years after voluntarily surrendering the approval. This milestone reaffirms KQ’s capability to maintain and repair foreign aircraft, enhancing its appeal to international airlines seeking high-quality maintenance services in Kenya. The certification strengthens KQ’s position as a key player in Africa’s aviation maintenance sector, opening doors for increased business opportunities.
Meanwhile, aviation operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have been disrupted following the takeover of Goma International Airport by the M23 rebel movement last week. The conflict has forced airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines and Jambojet, to suspend flights to the region. Among the seized assets are a Gomair Congo ATR 72 cargo aircraft, previously linked to Falko Regional Aircraft via SPV Aircraft Traders Belgium S.A., along with several military helicopters and other strategic equipment. The escalating situation poses significant challenges to air travel and security in Eastern DRC.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
The ACI World – Airports Council International and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have released a joint Passenger Traffic Report, highlighting significant growth in global air travel. In 2024, passenger traffic surpassed pre-pandemic levels, reaching 9.5 billion travelers (104% of 2019 levels), while Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK) hit 8.8 trillion (101% of 2019 levels). By 2030, passenger numbers are projected to exceed 12 billion, driven by expanding international markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Long-term forecasts suggest global traffic will double to 19.5 billion by 2042, and by 2050, it is expected to reach 244% of 2019 levels, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6%. Meanwhile, RPKs are forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.2%, reaching 284% of 2019 levels.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported record-high demand in 2024, with total passenger traffic increasing by 10.4% compared to 2023, surpassing 2019 levels by 3.8%. Capacity expanded by 8.7%, and the overall load factor reached 83.5%, the highest on record. International traffic rose 13.6%, while domestic demand increased 5.7% year-over-year. December 2024 capped off the year strongly, with an 8.6% rise in demand, including a 10.6% increase in international traffic. African airlines recorded a 13.2% traffic growth in 2024, with capacity rising 9.5% and the load factor improving to 74.5%, the highest ever for the region despite being the lowest globally.
In air cargo, global demand rose by 11.3% year-over-year, surpassing record volumes set in 2021. Capacity increased 7.4%, while yields remained 39% higher than in 2019, despite a slight dip from 2023. African airlines saw 8.5% growth in cargo demand, with capacity expanding 13.6% year-on-year. However, December cargo demand declined by 0.9%, marking the region’s weakest performance.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde’s airports hit a record 3 million passengers in 2024, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 2.7 million in 2019. The surge was fueled by a 3.2% rise in international traffic, while domestic traffic saw a slight decline. Sal and Boa Vista islands remained the country’s busiest hubs, accounting for over half of all passenger movements. VINCI Airports, which has managed Cape Verde’s airports since July 2023 under a 40-year concession, secured €60 million in funding to modernize infrastructure and enhance Cape Verde’s role as a strategic aviation hub in the region.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Libya and Qatar have taken a significant step in modernizing their aviation cooperation by signing an updated Air Services Agreement, replacing the original 2004 deal. The agreement, finalized by Libyan Transport Minister Mohamed Al-Shahoubi and Qatari Minister of Transport Mohammed Al Thani, introduces more flexible provisions aligned with the latest advancements in civil aviation. This move is expected to enhance bilateral collaboration and facilitate air transport between the two nations.
Meanwhile, EGYPTAIR Chairman Yehia Zakaria met with Côte d’Ivoire’s Ambassador to Egypt, Albert G. Doulé, to strengthen air transport cooperation between Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire. The Cairo-Abidjan route, reinstated with three weekly flights, is set to increase to four weekly services in 2025, expanding connectivity and boosting trade and tourism between the two countries.
In a major expansion of airline partnerships, RwandAir Ltd has deepened its codeshare agreement with Qatar Airways since mid-January 2025. The extended arrangement now includes 15 additional Qatar Airways-operated routes, covering destinations such as Cairo, Bangkok, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Lisbon, Luanda, Mahe (Seychelles), Mykonos, Seoul, and Tunis, further enhancing global connectivity for RwandAir passengers.
Similarly, Air India Limited and Kenya Airways have formalized a codeshare partnership, strengthening ties between India and Africa. Announced on January 30, 2025, the agreement expands on an existing interline arrangement, reinforcing both airlines’ commitment to seamless connectivity and enhanced travel options for passengers across the two regions.
In the field of airline technology and financial solutions, Maureva, a leader in airline software and services, has entered into a strategic partnership with the African Airlines Association (AFRAA). This collaboration aims to enhance African carriers’ capabilities in financial management, commercial operations, passenger services, and business intelligence. By focusing on revenue protection, cost reduction, digital cargo workflows, flight and crew optimization, and data-driven decision-making, Maureva and AFRAA seek to boost the competitiveness and efficiency of African airlines.
Additionally, AFRAA has joined forces with ENVISA, signing an MOU to advance sustainability in African aviation. This partnership will focus on policy alignment, training, carbon management for Net Zero emissions, noise and air quality assessments, ESG reporting, and carbon offset strategies. A key priority includes the promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), contributing to a greener, more resilient future for African airlines.
In another strategic move, Ethiopian Airlines has appointed AirlinePros International as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in Eswatini. This partnership will enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ market presence in the country, connecting Eswatini more efficiently to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive global network spanning five continents.
Meanwhile, aviation training partnerships continue to expand across Africa. Egypt’s National Air Navigation Services Company recently hosted a Libyan delegation, including representatives from Libyan Sky Wings Academy and EGYPTAIR TRAINING ACADEMY, to advance air traffic control officer training under their existing cooperation framework.
Additionally, Airways Aviation ESMA (Airways ESMA), a globally recognized aviation training institution, has entered a strategic partnership with Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA). This agreement will deliver a specialized EASA Airline Pilot Pathway Programme in Morocco, covering private pilot training, structured hour-building, and advanced flight modules, with further training opportunities in France, Italy, Portugal, and Finland.
Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has partnered with Stanbic Bank Kenya to leverage the bank’s expertise in transactional banking, enterprise services, and corporate finance. This initiative is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery across Kenya’s airport network, ensuring smoother financial management and improved aviation infrastructure.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
On January 30, 2025, Air Arabia marked a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural direct flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, further expanding its growing network of destinations from Sharjah, UAE. The airline will operate three weekly flights between Sharjah and Addis Ababa on Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, utilizing the Airbus A320.
Turkish Airlines has unveiled a strategic shift in its Africa route network for the northern summer 2025 season. Starting March 31, 2025, the airline will replace its current nonstop Istanbul–Juba service with a new triangular route incorporating Asmara, Eritrea. The revised Istanbul–Asmara–Juba–Istanbul routing will be operated twice weekly using a Boeing 737 MAX 8.
Precision Air Tanzania has announced the launch of a new service connecting Dar es Salaam and Iringa, set to commence on March 3, 2025. The flights will operate three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, offering greater accessibility to Tanzania’s Southern Highlands region.
Similarly, AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED (ATCL) is expanding its footprint with the introduction of new direct flights from Dar es Salaam to Lagos (Nigeria), Kinshasa (DRC), and Iringa, Nduli Airport (Domestic). While the airline has yet to announce the official launch dates for Lagos and Kinshasa, it has confirmed that flights to Iringa will commence on February 22, 2025, with fares set at 393,000 TZS. This expansion follows the recent revival of ATCL’s Dar es Salaam–Johannesburg route, highlighting the airline’s commitment to strengthening regional and international connectivity.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola has taken a major step in its fleet renewal strategy with the arrival of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered as D2-TEQ and named “Namibe.” The aircraft touched down at Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport in Luanda on January 29, 2025, following its delivery from Everett, Washington, USA. This milestone is part of TAAG’s broader modernization initiative, with a total order of four Dreamliners—two 787-9s and two 787-10s—aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and improving passenger comfort on long-haul routes.
Kenyan freight operator SAFE AIR has expanded its cargo capabilities with the induction of its first Boeing 737-400 Freighter. The aircraft, registered as 5Y-FQD (MSN 29202), will serve key regional cargo routes, connecting Juba (South Sudan), Entebbe (Uganda), and Djibouti. Before entering the Kenyan market, the aircraft had a diverse history—operating in cargo configuration under ASL Airlines Belgium and in passenger service with Aero Contractors of Nigeria Ltd between 2012 and 2017.
Cameroon’s national carrier, CAMAIR-CO, has reinforced its medium-haul fleet by leasing a Boeing 737-700 from ACMI provider Smartwings. The 22-year-old aircraft (MSN 29346) arrived at its new home base in Douala on January 27, 2025, as part of the airline’s efforts to stabilize its fleet and expand regional connectivity.
Egyptian carrier Red Sea Airlines, which launched operations in 2022, has strengthened its fleet with the recent addition of an 18-year-old Boeing 737-800 (MSN 30708). The aircraft, leased from AerCap, was delivered to Cairo on January 25, 2025, bringing Red Sea Airlines’ total fleet count to three aircraft. Looking ahead, the airline plans to expand to five aircraft by mid-2025 and eight by 2027, with a potential Boeing 737 MAX 8 introduction under evaluation.
Mozambique’s flag carrier, LAM-Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique, has initiated a tender process to acquire additional aircraft, specifically Embraer ERJ190 and Boeing 737-700 models. The tender, which opened on January 31, 2025, invites expressions of interest from national and international suppliers, with a submission deadline of February 7, 2025. Currently, LAM serves 12 domestic destinations and operates regional flights to Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Harare, Lusaka, and Cape Town, with Lisbon as its sole intercontinental route.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Kale Logistics Solutions is developing Africa’s first Airport Cargo Community System (ACCS) for Mozambique Airport Handling Service (MAHS). The system will enhance cargo visibility, automate compliance checks, and streamline operations. The first phase includes integrating finance and customs systems with Kale’s GALAXY 3.0 digital management system. This initiative aims to address revenue leakage, improve transparency, and eliminate paper-based processes.
In Malawi, the government is extending Mzuzu Airport’s runway from 1,300 to 1,600 meters to accommodate larger aircraft. Commercial flights, halted since 2010, will resume by March 2025, with Malawi Airlines operating 72-seat Bombardier aircraft. The upgrade will enhance connectivity and boost economic activity in northern Malawi.
Nigeria’s Oyo State has begun upgrading Samuel Akintola Airport in Ibadan to international standards. A new terminal, capable of handling one million passengers annually, is under construction by Craneburg Construction Ltd. Set for completion in early 2026, it will improve passenger flow, cargo handling, and position the airport as a regional hub.
A South African committee investigating Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has found staffing shortages and unreliable communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems. The report highlights suspended flight procedures due to maintenance failures. Recommendations include urgent staff recruitment, taking up to three years, and upgrading CNS systems to enhance air traffic management.
Etihad Airways has expanded its East African presence with a new corporate office in Nairobi’s Global Trade Centre (GTC), Kenya. Opened on January 22, 2025, the office, operated by GSA ITVAR Travel, was inaugurated by Ahmad Dib, Etihad’s General Manager for the Middle East & Africa, alongside local business leaders.
Emirates has reinforced its African footprint by launching its ninth Emirates World store in Cairo’s 5A WaterWay luxury complex. The store offers immersive product showcases, advanced technology, and expert travel consultancy, reflecting the airline’s commitment to premium customer service in Africa.
South African Airways (SAA) has opened a new office at Arcades Shopping Mall in Lusaka, Zambia. The event, attended by government officials and business leaders, underscores SAA’s efforts to improve customer service and expand its influence in Southern Africa.
EGYPTAIR is set for major fleet expansion after securing a 20 billion Egyptian pound ($645 million) financing package from the Ministry of Finance. The airline plans to grow its fleet from 65 to 125 aircraft in five years, enhancing global competitiveness and regional connectivity. Officials confirmed that the financial support will be repaid over a structured timeframe, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term viability for the national carrier.
People/Appointment.
Cameroonian aviation expert Romain EKOTO has been appointed as the new Regional Director of the ICAO Office for West and Central Africa (WACAF), based in Dakar, Senegal, succeeding Prosper Zo’o Minto’o. Chosen from a competitive pool of 78 candidates, Ekoto brings over 20 years of experience in civil aviation, having held key roles at the African Development Bank Group and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). His mandate focuses on strengthening regulatory compliance, enhancing aviation safety and security, and assisting states in aligning with international standards.
Mauritius has welcomed a new aviation leader with the appointment of Lormus Bundhoo as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aéroports de Mauritius Co Ltd (AML) and Airport Terminal Operations Ltd (ATOL). These two entities, responsible for the overall management and terminal operations of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSRIA), are in the process of merging. Bundhoo, a seasoned politician with extensive experience in government, previously served as Minister of Health and Environment. His leadership is expected to drive the transformation and modernization of Mauritius’ airport infrastructure.
FlyNamibia has appointed Nerine Uys as its new acting Managing Director. Previously serving as the airline’s General Manager of Commercial, Uys has played a key role in FlyNamibia’s growth over the past four years. With a background in management accounting and experience in both retail and entrepreneurship, she brings a strategic business perspective to the airline’s leadership.
BARSA (Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa) has announced its newly elected leadership team, set to guide the organization for the next three years. Bali Mabena has been elected as Chairperson, with Greg Fuller as Deputy Chairperson, leading a team of experienced professionals dedicated to advancing South Africa’s aviation sector. The full board includes Afzal Parambil, Dale Woodhouse, Emma Da Silva, Giovanni Simonini, Ian. Van Rooyen, John Friel, Teboho Thuli Fihla, Wilson Tauro, Michi Messner, and Oluwatomi Bola-Sadipe.
Awards, Recognition & Milestones.
Kenya Airways has been named the Best Employer of the Year 2025 by the Top Employers Institute, a prestigious recognition that highlights the airline’s commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment. This accolade reflects the dedication, teamwork, and passion that define Kenya Airways’ corporate culture, reinforcing its reputation as a top employer not only in Kenya but across the aviation industry.
Kenyan carrier, Fly Skyward Express, a leading domestic and regional airline, has officially joined the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) as a member airline. This announcement, made in the last week of January, marks a strategic move that aligns Skyward Express with the broader African aviation community, offering new opportunities for collaboration, industry advocacy, and operational excellence.
VISA/PASSPORTS.
On January 22, 2025, Seychelles and the United States held discussions on facilitating U.S. visa application procedures for Seychellois nationals. During a meeting at Maison Quéau de Quinssy, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde and U.S. Ambassador H.E. Henry Jardine explored Seychelles’ potential qualification for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and options to allow Seychellois applicants to obtain a U.S. visa without traveling to Mauritius. Ambassador Jardine announced that a pilot project launching in March 2025 will streamline the process by collecting applicants’ bio-data in Seychelles for processing at the U.S. Embassy in Mauritius, reducing the need for international travel.
Aviation Accidents/Incidents.
On January 28, 2025, Max Air Ltd Flight VM1605, a Boeing 737-400, suffered a nose gear collapse while landing on runway 06 at Aminu Kano International Airport, Nigeria. During deceleration at speeds below 60 knots, a loud bang was heard before the aircraft veered sharply left. The flight crew quickly regained control, bringing it to a safe stop. No injuries were reported, and investigations are underway.
On January 30, 2025, a Cessna A185F Skywagon crashed in foggy conditions at Kedong Ranch, Naivasha, Kenya, killing both occupants. Witnesses heard the aircraft flying low before impact. The wreckage was found completely destroyed, with poor visibility suspected as a factor.
On January 28, 2025, a Libyan Air Force Ak?nc? UCAV crashed near Ajaylat, Libya. Footage suggests it was shot down, as it spiraled down with a large plume of smoke. The drone, armed with MAM-L laser-guided bombs, may have been targeted by anti-aircraft fire or a missile.
On January 29, 2025, a Beechcraft 1900D carrying 21 oil workers crashed upon takeoff at Unity oilfield, South Sudan, en route to Juba. Twenty people died, with only one survivor in critical condition. The aircraft was completely destroyed, and authorities are investigating possible mechanical failure, overloading, or weather issues.
Lawsuits.
Liberian singer Raquel Hage has filed a US$65,000 lawsuit against Air Côte d’Ivoire, alleging negligence over her missing luggage and the emotional distress caused. Filed at the Civil Law Court in Monrovia, the suit claims her suitcase, containing US$5,000 worth of personal items, went missing after she checked it in at Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan on March 1, 2024, before flying to Roberts International Airport, Liberia.
The COMESA Competition Commission has launched an investigation into Kenya Airways (KQ) over alleged consumer protection violations following multiple complaints of flight delays and inadequate passenger support. The probe cites suspected breaches of Article 28 of the COMESA Competition Regulations, which prohibits unfair business practices. Complaints include a six-hour delay on flight KQ419 from Entebbe to Nairobi on August 18, 2024, and another six-hour delay on flight KQ418 from Nairobi to Entebbe on December 2, 2024. Passengers claim KQ failed to provide rebooking, accommodation, or meals, leading to missed connections.
In other news:
The Marcus Mosiah Garvey Foundation (MMGF) and the Afro Continental Union Consult (ACUC) have urged President H.E John Dramani Mahama to rename Kotoka International Airport after Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. They argue that the country’s main airport should honor a national hero rather than someone they deem a traitor, reflecting Ghana’s values.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has revoked the Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) of Omni-Blu Aviation and Eastwind Aviation Logistics Services Limited for violating Part 1.2.1.5 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs). Both companies were found guilty of falsifying regulatory documents, an offense that mandates AOC revocation under Part 1.2.1.5(b).
Turkey has begun constructing a rocket launch facility in Somalia, with work starting in December 2024, according to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The site, strategically located near the equator and Indian Ocean, offers lower launch energy costs and safer debris recovery. This project is part of Turkey’s 10-year space program, launched in 2021, to expand its satellite and spaceport capabilities.
The Kenyan government has raised the duty-free threshold for arriving passengers from Ksh.50,000 to Ksh.250,000, easing customs restrictions on personal goods. To enhance security at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), advanced customer information systems will be introduced for risk profiling, and only flagged bags will undergo screening. Additionally, from July 1, 2025, customs officers at JKIA will wear body-worn cameras to boost transparency.
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