(Posted 15th July 2026)
In early July did Air Congo launch its first direct scheduled service between Kinshasa and Brussels, reconnecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo with one of its most important European markets. The flight marks the airline’s first intercontinental route and the return of a Congolese carrier to Brussels after many years.
More importantly, it demonstrates how strategic partnerships can accelerate airline development while overcoming operational and regulatory challenges.
A Partnership That Creates Opportunity
The route is operated using an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner under an ACMI (wet lease) agreement. Ethiopian provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance, while Air Congo markets the service under its own brand. Ethiopian also owns 49% of Air Congo, with the DRC Government holding 51%.
This model enables Air Congo to launch long-haul operations without waiting years to build the required capabilities.
Why the Wet Lease Matters
As DRC-certified airlines remain subject to EU safety restrictions, Ethiopian Airlines’ internationally recognized Air Operator Certificate enables the service to operate legally into Belgium while Air Congo continues strengthening its operational framework.
It is an excellent example of how ACMI solutions can support airline growth while maintaining international safety standards.
A Strategic Route
The Kinshasa-Brussels service supports:
• Business and investment
• Government and diplomatic travel
• The Congolese diaspora in Belgium
• Tourism and humanitarian mobility
• Cargo and trade between Central Africa and Europe
It also introduces greater competition on a route long dominated by a single carrier.
A Model for African Aviation
Many African airlines face limited long-haul fleets, high capital costs, regulatory restrictions and technical capacity constraints.
Rather than solving every challenge independently, strategic partnerships, ACMI arrangements and joint ventures provide practical pathways for sustainable growth and improved connectivity, supporting the vision of AfCFTA.
Looking Ahead
Air Congo plans to expand beyond Brussels as its network grows. If this partnership continues to deliver operational excellence, it could become one of Africa’s leading examples of successful airline collaboration.
This inaugural flight is more than the launch of a new route. It shows how partnerships, shared expertise and innovative business models can strengthen African aviation.
Congratulations to Air Congo, Ethiopian Airlines, and everyone involved in making this historic milestone a reality.
