Alkebulan Airlines, based in Zambia, is nearing the completion of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process and aims to begin operations in January 2025. The airline’s CEO, Charles Tembo, announced that its fleet would include Embraer E145s and Boeing 737s, reports CH-Aviation. The AOC approval is currently in its fourth phase out of five, with a test flight scheduled for this month.
Established in 2022 by aviation professionals and entrepreneurs, Alkebulan Airlines is a subsidiary of Alkebulan Aviation, an innovative company based in Lusaka, Zambia. The parent company has focused on building a robust operational framework, completing its headquarters and cargo center in 2023. With hopes of revolutionizing African aviation, Alkebulan Airlines aims to offer both domestic and international services to cities such as Cape Town, Harare, Dubai, Guangzhou, New York, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, London, and Mumbai.
Zambia’s Expanding Aviation Sector
Zambia’s aviation industry is witnessing substantial growth, rebounding strongly post-pandemic. The Zambia Airports Corporation Limited reported over two million passengers in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic figures. Upgrades to major airports, including Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, have enhanced passenger experiences, positioning Zambia as a competitive aviation hub.
Key players in the Zambian aviation market include the relaunched national airline, Zambia Airways, which commenced commercial operations in December 2021 with a Boeing 737-800. The government’s Aviation Strategy (2022–26) further bolsters this sector, focusing on enhancing regional connectivity and tourism.
