New Routes and Increased Connectivity in African Markets

The African continent, with its vast landscapes, cultural diversity, and economic potential, is witnessing an aviation renaissance. Airlines are unveiling ambitious plans for new flight routes and enhanced connectivity, opening doors for travelers and businesses alike.

In the next quarter, the skies over Africa will become even more accessible, as carriers seek to connect regions, nations, and the world. Here’s a glimpse of the upcoming routes and recent announcements:

Safair’s Ambitious Expansion

South African airline Safair is spreading its wings with an array of exciting new routes. In early October, it plans to introduce flights to Maputo, Livingstone, Harare, and Victoria Falls. These routes will provide travelers with greater accessibility to the wonders of southern Africa. Operating an entire Boeing 737 fleet, Safair will connect travelers with four flights a week to Maputo and Livingstone, a daily connection to Harare, and three flights per week to Victoria Falls. These new routes exemplify Safair’s determination to bolster regional connectivity.

ASKY’s East African Ventures

ASKY, a West African carrier, is venturing into East Africa. On October 1, the airline commenced operating three weekly flights to Nairobi serviced by Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

ASKY has also recently extended its reach by launching flights to Luanda 3 times weekly, bridging West and Southern Africa more effectively than ever before.

Uganda Airlines’ Ambitious Routes

One of Africa’s newest carriers, Uganda Airlines, is on the move, adding two vibrant destinations to its growing network. Commencing on October 7, travelers will have the opportunity to fly to Mumbai three times a week, fostering economic and cultural ties between Uganda and India. The service was initially promised two years ago and is the second off the African peninsula and Uganda Airlines’ 12th destination.

The airline will compete with Air Tanzania, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, and Ethiopian Airlines, who have been connecting customers from Uganda to India through their various hubs.

An Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Parker Davis)

Still on the Pearl of Africa, the airline will inaugurate a new route to Lagos beginning Oct. 19 which will operate three times a week further amplify regional connectivity, offering travelers an exciting gateway to Nigeria. These new routes will be serviced by the carrier’s Airbus A330 Neo aircraft.

Air Peace’s Link to Jeddah

Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, is expanding its network with a new route to Jeddah, featuring a stopover in Kano. This connection, beginning in October, signifies the airline’s commitment to bridging economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

Flydubai’s Mombasa Connection

In January, Flydubai will inaugurate four weekly flights to Mombasa, Kenya. The Dubai-based low-cost airline is set to break new ground, as it becomes the first Emirati airline to operate direct flights from Dubai and the United Arab Emirates to Mombasa. Starting on January 17, 2024, the carrier will offer four weekly flights operated by the Boeing 737 MAX 8 to Mombasa’s Moi International Airport.

A Flydubai 737 MAX 8 performing a test flight at Paine Field. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Katie Bailey)

Brussels Airlines Expands East African Presence

The Belgian Lufthansa subsidiary is expanding in its focus market of Africa. Next summer, Brussels Airlines plans to operate six weekly flights to Nairobi and daily flights to Kigali. Commencing in June 2024, direct flights will connect Brussels to Nairobi, with the Kenyan capital city set to once again grace their route map.

Emirates’ Potential Return to Nigeria

Emirates, the UAE’s flagship carrier, is considering a return to Nigeria. This is after Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reached an agreement to put an end to their diplomatic spat, which saw the UAE impose a visa ban on Nigerian travelers and the suspension of flights by Emirates Airline. This breakthrough comes after a meeting between Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Victor Shalton

Victor Shalton's love for aviation can be traced to when he was 11-years-old. As a seasoned aviation writer, he takes pride in providing the best aviation coverage around the globe and is passionate about advancing his skills in the aviation space. In addition, he loves travelling, writing, arts and while his speaking engagements have taken him around the world, he is proud to call Nairobi home.

Latest posts by Victor Shalton (see all)

• AirExplore, Air Peace Partner for Boeing 737-800 Lease - August 14, 2024
• Libya Seeks Germany’s Help to Lift European Airspace Ban - July 30, 2024
• Skyward Express’ Fleet Expansion Supported by De Havilland’s Certified Refurbishment Program - July 23, 2024