With 2025 in the history books, the African aviation sector stands at a pivotal juncture, marked by ambitious infrastructure projects, regulatory reforms, technological innovations, and persistent challenges amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic pressures. This year-in-review compiles the most impactful stories, drawing on key events across the months, and highlights how African nations are navigating global trends while addressing local realities.
Morocco Unveils $4.17 Billion Airport Expansion Plan
On Jan. 21, Morocco’s minister of transport and logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, announced a 42 billion dirhams (approximately $4.17 billion) investment to modernize and expand the nation’s airports by 2030. This plan targets key hubs, such as Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport and Marrakech-Menara, aiming to double capacity to handle surging tourism and position Morocco as Africa’s premier transcontinental gateway.
FlySafair Faces Potential Shutdown Over Ownership Compliance
South Africa’s low-cost carrier, FlySafair, entered turbulent waters when the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) ruled on Jan. 6 that its ownership structure violated domestic licensing laws, which require at least 75% South African control of voting rights. Allegations centered on indirect foreign influence through trusts and holdings linked to Ireland-based ASL Aviation. The carrier, holding over 60% of the domestic market, risked license suspension, threatening widespread disruptions in affordable travel. Ultimately, FlySafair received a 12-month compliance grace period in February.
São Tomé and Príncipe Advances Airport Modernization Amid Geopolitical Financing Dynamics
The island nation progressed on upgrading Nuno Xavier International Airport, navigating a complex landscape involving a 49-year concession to Turkey’s FB Group and renewed talks for Chinese support — potentially including elements of a longstanding $100 million pledge.
Libya’s MedSky Airways Re-enters European Skies via Malta MedAir Partnership
In a symbolic breakthrough, MedSky Airways launched direct Benghazi-Malta flights on Jan. 16 in collaboration with Malta MedAir, marking the first Libyan-operated route to Europe in years. Overcoming EU bans through this partnership, the weekly service facilitates medical, business, and tourism travel, amid Libya’s gradual aviation normalization post-conflict.
February: Partnerships and Persistent Safety Challenges
South Africa Overhauls ATNS to Avert Airspace Crisis
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy approved a comprehensive reform of Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) on Jan. 30, following a diagnostic report from an expert committee established in December 2024. The overhaul addressed critical issues, including staffing shortages, unreliable systems, and lapsed instrument flight procedures that had caused widespread delays and safety concerns. Immediate implementation focused on hiring new controllers, system upgrades, and governance improvements, stabilizing southern Africa’s airspace, and preventing broader disruptions in a key regional hub.
Emirates and Air Peace Forge Interline Partnership Amid Nigeria-UAE BASA Amendments
On Feb. 11, during the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium in Abu Dhabi, Emirates signed an interline agreement with Air Peace, enabling seamless connections from Dubai-Lagos flights to 13 domestic Nigerian destinations, including Asaba, Benin City, Enugu, and Port Harcourt. Coinciding with amendments to the Nigeria-UAE Bilateral Air Services Agreement signed by ministers Festus Keyamo and Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the deals expanded reciprocal rights, promoted codeshares, and included technical cooperation on safety and security. This diplomatic breakthrough enhanced trade, tourism, and connectivity, resolving prior tensions and boosting passenger options.
RwandAir Reroutes Network After DRC Airspace Ban
Escalating geopolitical tensions led the Democratic Republic of Congo to ban Rwandan-registered aircraft from its airspace in mid-February, forcing RwandAir to suspend or modify routes to West and Central Africa. Key changes included suspending Kigali-Abuja-Accra and rerouting flights via alternative paths, increasing fuel costs, and flight times. The ban, tied to conflicts in eastern DRC, highlighted aviation’s vulnerability to regional politics while underscoring the need for diversified routing in volatile areas.
IATA’s 2024 Safety Report Underscores Africa’s Challenges
Released on Feb. 26, IATA’s Annual Safety Report revealed Africa’s all-accident rate rose to 10.59 per million sectors in 2024 — over nine times the global average of 1.13 — despite zero fatalities for the second year. Common incidents involved runway excursions and gear issues, often on turboprops. While celebrating no fatal accidents, the report renewed urgency for initiatives like IATA’s Focus Africa and CASIP to address training, oversight, and infrastructure gaps.
March: Ethiopia’s Hub Dominance Solidified
Ethiopian Airlines and AfDB Partner for $7.8 Billion Bishoftu International Airport
March’s defining moment came on March 14 when Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew and AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo signed a Letter of Intent for the Bishoftu International Airport project, estimated at $7.8 billion. Held in the presence of AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, the agreement transforms a longstanding vision into a bankable reality backed by multilateral financing. Designed to relieve pressure on Addis Ababa’s Bole International (currently at 17 million passengers annually, nearing its 25 million limit), Bishoftu aims to catapult Ethiopia’s capacity to over 60 million passengers by 2040.
Uganda Airlines Launches Direct Entebbe–London Gatwick Service
Uganda Airlines achieved a major milestone by announcing four-weekly direct flights to London Gatwick starting May 18. For a young flag carrier born from the ashes of its predecessor, securing slots and regulatory approval for a premium European route represents not just commercial expansion but a validation of credibility and sovereignty.
South African Airways Manages Pilot Work-to-Rule with Contingency Measures
On March 19, SAA pilots initiated a work-to-rule action after rejecting the airline’s final wage offer amid protracted negotiations. Group CEO John Lamola responded with robust contingency plans, emphasizing minimal disruptions, real-time updates, and unwavering safety standards despite challenges like high fuel costs and currency weakness. The episode tested SAA’s post-privatization resilience but showcased mature crisis management, reassuring investors and partners watching labor stability as a key risk factor for Africa’s iconic legacy carrier.
Ethiopian Airlines Pioneers eVTOL Deployment with Archer Aviation
On March 27, Ethiopian signed a deal worth up to $30 million for Archer’s Midnight eVTOL aircraft under the “Launch Edition” program. Including training and regulatory collaboration with Ethiopia’s Civil Aviation Authority, the partnership positions Ethiopia—and Africa—as an early adopter of urban air mobility.
April: Governance Scandals and Quiet Maturation
Air Mauritius Reveals $394 Million Cumulative Losses Amid Theft Allegations
Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam stunned parliament on April 15 by disclosing that Air Mauritius had accumulated MUR 17.72 billion ($394 million) in losses from 2015 to 2024, a stark reversal from prior profitability. Declaring “someone stole this money,” Ramgoolam pointed to an ongoing KPMG forensic audit probing misappropriation and mismanagement.
U.S. Terminates $3.4 Million Kenya Aviation Advisory Contract
On April 3, the newly established U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) canceled a $3.4 million contract for aviation advisors in Kenya, part of 47 terminations saving $30.2 million.
Green Africa Airways Takes Delivery of First Owned Aircraft
Nigeria’s Green Africa marked a maturation milestone on April 1 with the arrival of its first owned ATR 72-500 (5N-GAB) in Lagos, financed partly through a Naira facility from Access Bank. Moving beyond leasing dependency, this acquisition bolsters balance-sheet strength, reduces forex risks, and enhances long-term planning in a volatile domestic market — offering a blueprint for other young African airlines.
Ghana Revives National Airline Ambitions with World Aviation Group
On April 4, Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe met World Aviation Group representatives to advance plans for a new flag carrier under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. Framing it as essential for economic growth and connectivity, the talks revive a decades-long saga of failed attempts, testing political will against historical pitfalls.
Air Algérie Eliminates French from Customer Platforms
On April 14, Air Algérie announced the removal of French from all tickets, bookings, and documents, adopting only Arabic and English. Director Abdelkader Salmi cited alignment with Arab and international norms, but the timing amid strained Algeria-France relations lent symbolic weight — a quiet assertion of cultural identity and geopolitical realignment.
May: Regulatory Reform Amid Conflict
Nigeria Launches Revised Insurance Regulations for Leased Aircraft
On May 12, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, unveiled revised regulations for insuring leased and financed aircraft. Launched in Abuja by Minister Festus Keyamo, the policy addresses longstanding barriers: high costs from foreign insurance mandates, limited local insurer participation, and repossession uncertainties. By aligning with the Cape Town Convention — where Nigeria now boasts Africa’s highest compliance score (70.5) — and strengthening IDERA mechanisms, the reforms empower local insurers, slash premiums, and enhance lessor confidence.
Renewed Tripoli Clashes Trigger Widespread Flight Cancellations and Evacuations
Violence erupted on May 12 in Tripoli suburbs like Ain Zara and Bin Ashur, shattering relative calm and forcing major disruptions at Mitiga International Airport. Carriers including EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines, ITA Airways (which had just resumed after a decade), and Royal Jordanian canceled services, while others evacuated aircraft.
Drone Attacks Target Port Sudan Airport Amid Escalating Sudanese Civil War
Between May 4 and 6, Rapid Support Forces (RSF) drones struck Port Sudan New International — Sudan’s de facto main gateway since Khartoum’s 2023 closure — hitting military bases, warehouses, and fuel depots. Flights halted temporarily, UNHAS suspended aid operations, and cancellations rippled outward.
Algeria Advances New Domestic Carrier Using Tassili Airlines Assets
A May 27 coordination meeting chaired by Transport Minister Al-Saeed Sayed Saoud accelerated President Tebboune’s March vision for a dedicated domestic airline. Leveraging Tassili’s fleet and staff to create an Air Algérie subsidiary, a joint task force was formed for rapid transfer. The move aims to free Air Algérie for international growth while improving internal connectivity across Algeria’s vast territory.
June: Sustainability and Cargo Take Center Stage
Xinjiang Launches Africa’s First Direct Air Cargo Route via Ethiopian Airlines
On June 27, a Boeing 777 freighter from Addis Ababa touched down in Urumqi, inaugurating Xinjiang’s first direct cargo link to Africa with two to three weekly round-trips operated by Ethiopian Airlines. Loaded with 104.8 tons from Guangzhou on its return, the route facilitates exports like electronics and imports of African beef, lamb, coffee, and horticulture.
Safarilink Signs for AURA AERO Hybrid-Electric ERA Aircraft
At the Paris Air Show on June 17, Kenya’s Safarilink inked a Letter of Intent for four (plus options for two) 19-seater ERA hybrid-electric aircraft from France’s AURA AERO. Boasting up to 80% CO₂ reductions via eight Safran electric motors and turbogenerators, a 900 nm range, and SAF compatibility, the ERA targets entry into service by 2030. Amid over 650 global pre-orders, Safarilink’s commitment positions Kenya as a leader in sustainable regional aviation, aligning short-haul safari routes with net-zero goals.
Kenya Airways Advances Local SAF Production Plans
During the June 24 launch of its 2024 Sustainability Report in Nairobi, Kenya Airways announced plans for domestic Sustainable Aviation Fuel production by 2030, partnering with a local producer to cultivate feedstock trees on degraded Kwale County land. Attended by government officials, the initiative ties decarbonization to land restoration, job creation, and potential exports, supporting KQ’s net-zero 2050 ambition and Africa’s broader sustainability push.
Court Blocks Mango Airlines Revival, Ruling Business Rescue Plan Unlawful
On June 17, Johannesburg’s Gauteng High Court invalidated Mango’s Business Rescue Plan, siding with creditor Aviation Co-Ordination Services (owed R23.3 million) against a compulsory debt cession for nominal value. Judge Denise Fisher deemed the provision unconstitutional “confiscation,” unenforceable under common law, and misaligned with the Companies Act’s rescue intent. The ruling derails a proposed December 2025 relaunch backed by Ubuntu Air Services.
July: National Pride and Regional Expansion
Somali Airlines Acquires Airbus A320s for Historic Comeback
On July 28, Somalia’s Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation signed for two Airbus A320s from Lima Holding Group, announced by Minister Mohamed Farah Nuuh in Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s office. Announced to operate within two months under the revived Somali Airlines banner, the efficient narrowbodies signal domestic revival and international ambitions after a 34-year hiatus amid civil war. Minister Nuuh called it a restoration of “national dignity,” reducing foreign carrier reliance, cutting costs, creating jobs, and linking diaspora communities — part of plans for fleet expansion, including widebodies.
Air Algérie Places Africa’s Largest ATR Order for Domestic Subsidiary
On July 4, Air Algérie ordered 16 ATR 72-600s powered by Pratt & Whitney PW127XT engines, with deliveries from 2026-2028, for its new domestic-focused subsidiary. Including Africa’s first ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator, the deal enhances southern connectivity, pilot training, fuel efficiency, and sustainability — building on Air Algérie’s existing 15 ATRs operated since 2003.
South African Airways Posts $19.5 Million Loss but Shows Revenue Growth
SAA reported a R354 million ($19.5 million) net loss for 2023/24 at its July 17 AGM, reversing prior profits due to rand volatility (R415 million forex loss), 46% jet fuel surge amid global instability, and >30% leasing hikes from aircraft shortages. Yet 23% revenue growth to R7 billion continued post-rescue momentum, highlighting resilience and macroeconomic headwinds while signaling recovery potential.
Ghana Explores TAP Air Portugal Partnership for National Airline
President John Dramani Mahama, meeting Portugal’s ambassador on July 10, invited TAP for partnership in reviving Ghana’s flag carrier — absent since 2010 — citing direct Accra flights and shared ties. Supported by a May-inaugurated task force, this advances Mahama’s connectivity vision.
Air Zimbabwe Clears $1 Million Debt for GDS Reintegration
CEO Edmund Makona announced on July 1 debt settlements enabling Global Distribution System return within three months, boosting visibility, code-shares, and tourism under the turnaround plan.
August: Building Technical Sovereignty
Uganda Airlines Completes First In-House Engine Change
Coinciding with its sixth anniversary on Aug. 28, Uganda Airlines achieved a landmark by performing its first in-house engine swap on a CRJ900 (5X-KNP) at Entebbe’s Eagle Air Hangar 7, finalized around Aug. 23. The UCAA-certified AMO replaced a $7 million GE CF34-8C5 engine sourced from the U.S., extending the procedure to four to five days for training 18 graduates. Previously costing over $100,000 per outsourced operation (plus fees), in-house capability — post-ending SAMCO contract in 2023 — slashes monthly expenses by hundreds of millions of UGX, building technical sovereignty and expertise for the young flag carrier.
Air Peace Breaks Ground on Lagos MRO Facility
On Aug. 27, Chairman Allen Onyema confirmed groundbreaking for Nigeria’s largest maintenance, repair, and overhaul center in Lagos, set for Sept. 17 with construction lasting 12 to 15 months. Partnering with Embraer for technical support and Nigerian training, the facility will reduce overseas downtime, lower costs for local operators, and attract West/Central African business — easing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering regional self-reliance.
UAE Bans Sudanese Airlines Amid Diplomatic Crisis
On Aug. 6, the UAE barred Sudanese carriers from its airports, grounding one in Abu Dhabi without prior notice, per Sudan’s CAA. Affecting Badr and Tarco’s routes, the move escalates tensions after Sudan’s May accusations of UAE arming RSF (denied by Abu Dhabi) and diplomatic severance.
September: Innovation Accelerates
Rwanda Unveils Africa’s First Autonomous Electric Air Taxi
At the 9th Aviation Africa Summit in Kigali on Sept. 4-5, Rwanda launched the continent’s first self-flying eVTOL demonstration with the EHang EH216-S, witnessed by President Paul Kagame. Partnering with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and EHang Holdings, the two-passenger, 35 km-range, 130 km/h vehicle heralds Advanced Air Mobility for congestion relief, tourism, and logistics.
Juba International Airport Achieves First Nighttime Operations
On Sept. 5 at 10:15 p.m., an Air Congo Boeing 737 departed Juba, marking South Sudan’s first-ever nighttime takeoff after runway lighting upgrades. The SSCAA hailed it as transforming JIA into a 24/7 international hub connecting to 10 destinations in 9 countries.
flyCAA Inducts Africa’s First A321P2F Freighter
Kinshasa-based flyCAA took delivery on Sept. 28 of a converted Airbus A321-200P2F (9S-PEB, ex-Air Moldova), owned by ATSG’s Cargo Aircraft Management after PEMCO conversion. Joining its 767-200F, the fuel-efficient narrowbody diversifies flyCAA’s cargo strategy, challenging rivals like Serve Air.
Airlink Secures SACAA Approval for Embraer E2 Jets
On Sept. 3, SACAA certified the E190-E2 and E195-E2, paving the way for Airlink’s 10 leased E195-E2s (from Azorra) starting late 2025. Offering superior fuel efficiency (up to 29% better) and passenger comfort in 2×2 configuration, the approval bolsters Airlink’s sub-Saharan expansion and Embraer’s regional dominance.
GNU Allocates $10.6 Million Debt Relief to Afriqiyah Airways Amid Political Controversy
On Aug. 11 (formalized September), Libya’s GNU approved 58 million dinars ($10.6 million) via resolutions to settle Presidential Council debts to Afriqiyah, drawing from miscellaneous budgets. Amid accusations of overreach and transparency issues (the Presidential Council received $80 million in 2025), the relief aids the conflict-battered carrier (which lost seven aircraft since 2011) but exposes governance fractures.
AFCAC Validates Study on Harmonizing Aviation Taxes
On Sept. 10, AFCAC’s virtual workshop, backed by AUC and EASA, endorsed a study on high taxes’ adverse effects, advancing a continental framework and advocacy paper. Secretary General Adefunke Adeyemi stressed alignment with SAATM, AfCFTA, and Agenda 2063 to cut fares and boost connectivity, echoing IATA critiques of “milking aviation.”
October–November: Industrial and Institutional Gains
Morocco Secures Safran’s First Non-French LEAP Engine Assembly and MRO Facilities
On Oct. 13, presided over by King Mohammed VI, Safran signed agreements for a €200 million LEAP-1A assembly line (350 engines/year by 2027, 300 jobs) and €120 million MRO shop (150 overhauls/year, 600 jobs) near Casablanca. Sharing a test bench, these 38,000 sqm facilities integrate Morocco into the global supply chain for A320neo/737 MAX engines.
Niger Launches Niger Air International, Appoints CEO
Approved Sept. 4 via Decree 2025-275, Niger established mixed-economy Niger Air International to reclaim flag carrier status after over 20 years. A public-private model prioritizes state stakes, with CEO recruitment (open to AES citizens, deadline November 5, appointment Nov. 15) tasked with operations, routes, and compliance. Amid underserved airspace reliant on private/humanitarian flights (e.g., Niger Airlines’ recent Beechcraft resumption), it asserts economic sovereignty for the landlocked Sahel nation.
LAM Rejoins IATA Clearing House After Debt Clearance
Effective Oct. 2, Mozambique’s LAM regained full ICH membership post-repaying obligations, enabling secure global transactions after suspensions in 2023/2024. Amid restructuring and withheld revenues, this restores partnerships and credibility for the flag carrier.
Botswana Advances Air Botswana Restructuring with Fleet Sales
As part of reforms, Botswana sold grounded aircraft to streamline the struggling national carrier toward sustainability.
December: Challenges and Bold Reforms
EnComm Aviation Faces Shutdown Over BAE ATP Support Withdrawal
Kenyan humanitarian cargo operator EnComm issued a dire warning of potential loan default after BAE Systems withdrew technical support for its BAe ATP fleet — the last of its type in service. Having delivered nearly 19,000 tonnes of aid to conflict zones since 2023, the grounding disrupts vital humanitarian operations and exposes vulnerabilities in supporting legacy aircraft types.
ECOWAS Abolishes Key Aviation Taxes
In a landmark move, ECOWAS adopted reforms abolishing ticket, tourism, solidarity, and foreign travel taxes while slashing passenger service and security charges by 25%, effective January 2026. This policy, backed by a regional oversight mechanism, targets West Africa’s exorbitant airfares — often higher than long-haul routes to Europe — and aligns with ICAO standards to foster affordability, competition, and integration.
2025 was not without setbacks — conflict disruptions in Libya and Sudan, governance scandals, legacy aircraft challenges, and lingering safety gaps reminded the industry of its fragility. Yet the year’s defining theme was forward momentum: record infrastructure financing, pioneering sustainability efforts, technological firsts, a wave of national carrier revivals, and decisive regional tax reforms. As African nations increasingly assert technical and industrial sovereignty — from MROs to SAF production to aerospace manufacturing — the continent is transitioning from a late adopter to an active shaper of global aviation trends.
