Introduction.
The Trump administration is reportedly considering shutting down nearly 30 embassies and consulates worldwide—including several in Africa—as part of a broader plan to streamline America’s diplomatic presence abroad. This is according to an internal document from the US State Department. Among the proposed closures are American embassies in Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan. A consulate in South Africa is also listed for potential shutdown. These developments come amid a sweeping attempt by the administration to shrink the size of the US federal government, with influence from the Elon Musk -backed Department of Government Efficiency.
AOCs/ASLs/Operations.
The Niger State Government has announced the launch of scheduled flights from the newly inaugurated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Nigeria in partnership with Overland Airways Limited. Flights will begin on April 23, 2025, connecting Minna to Abuja and Lagos. The initiative, led by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, is part of the New Niger Development Project and aims to position Niger State as a regional hub for investment, trade, and tourism.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Q3 2024 Air Transport Report highlights continued recovery and growth in Africa’s aviation sector. Passenger revenue increased by 3% compared to Q3 2023, reflecting heightened demand for air travel. Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs) and Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPKs) rose by 8% and 7.4% respectively, indicating robust demand across the continent. International traffic accounted for 37% of total traffic, with intra-African and domestic flights comprising 31% and 32% respectively. Despite challenges such as fuel price volatility and geopolitical instability, the sector demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
In March 2025, Entebbe International Airport handled 178,383 international passengers—comprising 83,661 arrivals and 94,722 departures—averaging 5,754 travelers per day. This represents a 3.7% increase (6,393 passengers) compared to March 2024. The growth is attributed to factors such as Uganda hosting international conferences, intensified tourism promotion, and the introduction of new air operators like flynas, which began direct flights between Riyadh and Entebbe in January 2025, along with Uganda Airlines‘ expansion on new routes. In terms of cargo, the airport processed a total of 5,852 metric tonnes in March 2025, including 1,965 tonnes of imports and 3,887 tonnes of exports.
Domestic flight prices in South Africa have increased by 4% to 13% over the past year, driven by strong demand, limited airline capacity, and post-Covid travel habits, according to Discovery Bank and Visa’s SpendTrends25 report. The biggest fare hikes occurred on routes between Johannesburg and Durban (12%) and Johannesburg and Cape Town (10%), while the Cape Town–George route saw a 13% decrease. Despite travel spending returning to pre-pandemic levels, high airfares persist due to regulatory hurdles and cautious airline expansion. Minister Gayton McKenzie recently criticised the steep prices, calling for government intervention to protect consumers.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
Nigeria has signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Trinidad and Tobago, paving the way for direct flights between the two countries. The agreement, finalized on April 15, 2025, ends over 20 years of negotiations and positions Nigeria as the first African country to establish such an aviation partnership with a Caribbean nation. The deal is expected to reduce travel time and costs between West Africa and the Caribbean, while enhancing Nigeria’s connectivity to South America and the Caribbean.
Nigeria and Barbados have been advancing discussions to establish direct flight services between the two countries. On April 15, 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, met with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley in Bridgetown to revitalize the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) and explore new aviation partnerships. This initiative aims to enhance air connectivity between Africa and the Caribbean, fostering economic and cultural ties.
On April 18, 2025, Libya’s Minister of Transport, Mohamed Al-Shahoubi, met with Maltese Ambassador to Libya, Saliba Charles, in Tripoli to discuss strengthening transportation links and bilateral ties. Key topics included exploring new direct air routes between Libyan and Maltese airports, enhancing flight connectivity, and easing visa procedures for Libyan citizens traveling to Malta. They also discussed efforts to lift the European Union’s ban on Libyan civil aviation, with Malta playing a crucial role in reintegrating Libya into European airspace.
A strategic partnership agreement was signed on Monday in Marrakech between Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Royal Air Maroc, and the Digital Development Agency (ADD) to accelerate digital transformation in the travel sector. The agreement, aligned with the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, aims to position Morocco as a leading TravelTech hub in Africa. Key initiatives include promoting innovation through the RAM Digital Open Innovation program, supporting travel and air transport startups, and launching a national “TravelTech Innovator” label. Additionally, Royal Air Maroc will serve as the official airline partner for GITEX AFRICA.
Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has announced a multi-year partnership with Royal Air Maroc, naming it the Official Global Partner for major tournaments, including the 2025 AFCON and 2024 Women’s AFCON. The deal also covers youth competitions, CAF club finals, and the Women’s Champions League. As part of the agreement, the airline will provide enhanced logistical support for teams, officials, and fans, reinforcing Morocco’s growing role in hosting top sporting events—including AFCON 2025, Women’s AFCON 2024, and its 2030 FIFA World Cup co-hosting with Spain and Portugal.
The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) has expressed enthusiastic support for a new partnership with the Turkish government to modernize and expand Roberts International Airport (RIA). This agreement follows a private meeting between Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on April 14, 2025, at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. During the discussion, Minister Nyanti strongly advocated for government-to-government cooperation to enhance the infrastructure of Liberia’s primary international airport.
Ethiopian Airlines has entered into a strategic partnership with Bucher Aircraft Interior Solutions to equip its upcoming Boeing 777-9 fleet with advanced, lightweight galleys. The agreement was signed during the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, Germany, on April 16, 2025 .The new galleys are designed to optimize space and functionality, enhancing both passenger comfort and crew efficiency.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) signed a strategic agreement with Seabury Solutions to digitize its Aviation Safety and Security Regulation (ASSR) functions during the ICAO Facilitation Conference held in Doha. The contract was signed by KCAA Director General Emile Arao and witnessed by Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar and Ambassador Boniface Muhatia Nur. This initiative aligns Kenya‘s aviation oversight with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and positions the country as a leader in smart aviation governance and public sector innovation.
The Airports Company of Zimbabwe (Private) Limited (ACZ) and China Jiangsu International (PNG) Ltd (CJI) have recently signed two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing Zimbabwe‘s aviation infrastructure and technical capabilities. The first agreement focuses on the upkeep of the Victoria Falls International Airport, which was previously upgraded by CJI in 2016. The collaboration ensures the airport continues to meet international standards and supports the growing tourism sector in the region. The second MoU establishes a framework for technical cooperation between ACZ and CJI. This partnership aims to facilitate skills development in Zimbabwe‘s transport sector, enabling the country to benefit from China’s technical expertise and knowledge. The two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed on Monday, April 14, 2025, in Harare.
JCDeaccaux SE, the world’s leading outdoor advertising company, has secured a five-year contract through its subsidiary JCDecaux Angola to manage advertising at Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport in Luanda. The deal covers over 200 static and digital spaces, with plans to upgrade to cutting-edge digital assets and deliver a dynamic, high-impact media offering.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
TUI has announced a significant expansion of its flight routes, introducing a new service from East Midlands Airport to the Cape Verdean island of Boa Vista. The inaugural flight is set to depart on Saturday, April 26, 2025, marking a six-hour journey to this picturesque holiday destination.The airline will operate flights twice a week during the summer months, specifically on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and will continue with weekly flights on Wednesdays throughout the winter.
Pegasus Airlines is set to introduce direct flights between Istanbul and Algiers starting May 23, 2025, with services operating five times a week. This new route will increase competition with AJet, Turkish Airlines, and Air Algérie, catering to tourists, business travelers, and the large Algerian diaspora. The move is part of Pegasus’ ongoing expansion into North Africa and aligns with Turkey’s broader efforts to boost tourism revenue by 2030.
Etihad will double its flights between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi to 14X-weekly services starting Dec. 15, less than a year after resuming the route. Service will be onboard Airbus A320 aircraft. This expansion follows the recent addition of Addis Ababa, following the signing of a joint venture agreement with Ethiopian Airlines. Additionally, Etihad and Air Seychelles will collaborate on the six flights per week between Abu Dhabi and Mahe starting May 2025. Etihad will also launch new routes to El Alamein, Egypt, on July 17; Tunis, Tunisia, on Nov. 1; and Algiers, Algeria, on Nov. 7.
Air Sierra Leone, the country’s new privately owned flag carrier, will launch direct flights between Freetown and London Gatwick starting with an inaugural flight on April 26–27, 2025, and full commercial service from June 16, 2025. The route will operate three times weekly using a 189-seat Boeing 737 MAX 8. Departures from London are on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 23:00, arriving in Freetown at 05:00, with return flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 09:00. The launch follows the recent start of Freetown–Lagos service and will be celebrated with a gala and joint press event on April 26.
Effective May 1, South African Airways (SAA) will increase its Johannesburg–Windhoek service from two to three daily flights. The additional flight, SA70, will depart Johannesburg at 05:55, arriving in Windhoek at 07:50. The return flight, SA71, will depart Windhoek at 14:30, landing in Johannesburg at 16:15.
Congo Airways has suspended operations once again after returning its last operational aircraft, a Boeing 737, to Lithuanian lessor KlasJet on April 13, leaving the airline without an active fleet. The airline had briefly resumed flights in November 2024 with two leased KlasJet aircraft, but its own fleet—comprising two Airbus Aircraft A320s and two Bombardier Dash 8-Q400s—remains grounded. One of the Dash 8-Q400s was seized and auctioned in Malta due to unpaid debts. In response to the airline’s struggles, the Congolese government has shifted its support to Air Congo SA, a new joint venture with Ethiopian Airlines, which is tasked with restoring national and regional air connectivity.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Mozambique carrier Everett Aviation on April 15, 2025 has taken a 24.6 year old Embraer ERJ145 leased from westair aviation. The 50 seater aircrraft seats 50 pax and now bears the registration C9-WEF. It was previously operated by FlyNamibia
On April 17, 2025 DRC Mont Gabaon airlines induscted a 33.5 year old Boeing 737-300 freighter aircraft. The aircrraft which was previously operated by MIAT Mongolian Airlines ways now bears the registration 9S-AFR and has been leased from an unknown lessor.
Nigeria Air Peace Limited has inducted on April 14, 2025 a Airbus Aircraft A320-214 into its fleet. The 20.9 year old aircraft is leased from SmartLynx Airlines Ltd and seats 180 economy pax. and bears the registration YL-LCT
Astral Aviation Ltd, based in Kenya, is expanding its widebody freighter fleet with the arrival of a 36 year old Boeing 767-300ER (24146 ex- Amerijet International). This new aircraft will enhance the airline’s cargo operations across Africa, Asia, and beyond. The Boeing 767-300ER will join Astral’s current fleet, which includes a Boeing 767-200F and a Boeing 737-400F, helping the airline strengthen its services along Africa-Asia trade routes and meet the increasing demand from the e-commerce sector.
Tanzania has officially retired its 20-year-old Gulfstream Aerospace G550 presidential jet, replacing it with a state-of-the-art Gulfstream G700 as part of its VIP fleet renewal. The new G700, registered as 5H-ONE, was delivered in December 2024 and made its inaugural presidential flight in early 2025 . This ultra-long-range aircraft, valued at approximately $78 million, boasts a range of 7,500 nautical miles and advanced cabin features designed for comfort and efficiency. The acquisition aims to enhance the reliability of presidential travel and reduce reliance on commercial aircraft for official duties.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Ethiopian Airlines Group plans to invest approximately 30 billion birr (≈ USD 530 million) to prepare a 35 square kilometer site near Bishoftu for its upcoming international airport and operations hub, according to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance. This budget covers land clearing, resettlement, and site preparation. Of this, around 17 billion birr (≈ USD 300 million) will go toward compensating 2,500 farming households currently residing on the land. The site has been divided into eight lots. Design and resource mobilization efforts are ongoing, with relocation and demolition work expected to be completed by September 2025
Morocco’s National Office of Airports (ONDA) has launched an international call for expressions of interest for the largest expansion in the history of Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, with a projected investment of AED 15 billion (~USD 1.5 billion). The project aims to transform the airport into a world-class African air hub, increasing annual passenger capacity to 20 million. Central to the plan is a new H-shaped terminal covering 450,000 square meters—three times larger than the current facility. The development also includes a new 3,700-meter parallel runway capable of accommodating large aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777X, allowing up to 60 flight movements per hour. Over 100 aircraft parking bays will be added, along with a 42-meter-high control tower fitted with modern navigation systems.
Rwanda’s $2 billion Bugesera Airport project, aimed at positioning the country as a regional aviation hub, is expected to push public debt significantly higher, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting it could reach 86.3% of GDP by 2026. With Qatar holding a 60% stake, Rwanda’s 40% share could amount to $800 million, likely funded through external borrowing. Despite efforts to boost domestic revenue and introduce new taxes, the IMF urges tighter fiscal discipline and careful oversight of public projects. The country also faces financial strain from reduced aid linked to its alleged role in the DRC conflict. Credit agencies Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Ratings have downgraded Rwanda’s outlook to negative, citing rising debt and fiscal risks, though the economy remains resilient.
Air Peace and Ibom Air have suspended all flights to and from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, following its temporary closure by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) due to safety concerns over a critical rupture in the runway’s asphalt surface. FAAN announced that emergency repairs will take place from April 22 to May 6, 2025, and no landings or takeoffs will be permitted during this period.
The Mozambican government announced on Friday that it could pay three million dollars (€2.6 million) to euroAtlantic Airways to terminate its contract with state-owned LAM-Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique, a figure much lower than the $21 million compensation originally requested by the Portuguese company. The termination of the contract, which involved services on the Maputo-Lisbon route, was part of LAM’s restructuring process. Minister of Transport and Logistics, João Matlombe, stated that the requested compensation was deemed excessive, and the government now proposes a payment of around three million dollars. However, ongoing discussions are still addressing unresolved accounts, including invoices where LAM paid for services that were not rendered. EuroAtlantic had previously terminated the contract in February, citing LAM’s failure to pay substantial debts.
Air Mauritius reportedly lost MUR1.22 billion (USD27 million) from aircraft sales between 2017 and 2021, with Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth alleging fraud involving below-market sales and fund misappropriation. The government has launched an investigation to hold those responsible accountable. These losses add to a history of financial mismanagement, with the airline reporting significant deficits prior to and during its voluntary administration in 2020, triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the airline exited administration in 2021 with a government loan of MUR12 billion (USD280 million), the alleged theft highlights ongoing governance challenges at the national carrier.
VISA/Passports.
On Tuesday April 15, 2025, The Philippines and Morocco marked 50 years of diplomatic relations with a joint commemorative stamp featuring the Mactan-Cebu and Marrakech Menara airports. Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) Postmaster General Luis Carlos stated that the stamps symbolize the connection between the two countries through innovation and aviation. The Mactan-Cebu stamp showcases the airport’s wave-like roof, inspired by traditional Filipino “bangka” boat canoes. In contrast, the Marrakech Menara stamp highlights the airport’s blend of modern design and traditional Moroccan elements, including Islamic arabesques and a sweeping roof.
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has announced updated visa interview requirements for Nigerian applicants, effective April 22, 2025. Applicants attending interviews at the Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos must present a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation barcode beginning with “AA00″—this barcode must exactly match the one used to schedule the interview appointment online. Failure to provide a matching DS-160 confirmation page will result in denial of entry to the consular section and disqualification from the scheduled interview.Additionally, since January 1, 2025, all applicants are required to visit the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos twice as part of the visa application process.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) officially announced on April 3, 2025, that Zimbabwean citizens are now required to obtain a visa to enter the country, ending the previous visa-free travel arrangement between the two nations. Under the new policy, Zimbabwean travelers can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at major entry points, including airports and border posts, for a fee of $50. The DRC government has not publicly disclosed the reasons for this policy change. However, some observers speculate that it may be a response to Zimbabwe’s immigration policies or part of broader efforts to regulate cross-border movements more tightly. As of now, Zimbabwe continues to allow visa-free entry for DRC citizens, maintaining its commitment to regional integration and the facilitation of movement within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Algeria on Monday announced the expulsion of 12 French officials, shattering recent hopes of a diplomatic thaw and plunging relations between the two nations to a new low. The country’s foreign affairs ministry said in a statement that French consular agents had been given 48 hours to leave the country. the expulsions were a response to the arrest of an Algerian consular official in France. It said the arrest aimed to “humiliate Algeria, with no consideration for the consular status of this agent, disregarding all diplomatic customs and practices, and in flagrant violation of the relevant conventions and treaties.”
People/Appointment.
Captain Ahmed Adel, Chairman of the Board at Egyptair Holding Company, has appointed Eng. Ahmed Mokhtar as the new Head of the General Departments for Aircraft Airworthiness at EGYPTAIR Maintenance and Engineering. He previously served as Deputy Director of the Integrated Operations Centre at EgyptAir, before moving to the Holding Company for EgyptAir, where he held various roles, including Director of External Inspections (SAFA), Director of Air Safety in the Safety and Quality sector, General Manager of Fuel and Emissions Management, and later General Manager of Safety. He succeeds Eng. Hany Fawzy in this role.
David Bianchi has been appointed as Seychelles‘ new Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports, and Marine, effective April 15, 2025. With over 31 years in public service, Bianchi holds a Master of Science in Economics from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, specializing in Industrialisation, Trade, and Economic Policy. His extensive career includes roles as Director General of the Industrial Management and Development Division, Technical Director at the Seychelles Investment Bureau, and Director of Business Development at the Seychelles Ports Authority (SPA). Prior to this appointment, he served as SPA’s Director for Strategies since 2017. In his new role, Bianchi will oversee the strategic coordination and development of Seychelles’ aviation, port, and marine sectors, which are vital to the nation’s economic growth and international trade.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
Ethiopian Airlines received two prestigious awards during events held in Hamburg, Germany, on the sidelines of the 2025 Aircraft Interiors Expo (April 8–10, 2025). The airline won ‘Outstanding Food Service by a Carrier – Africa’ at the 2025 PAX Readership Awards, marking its third win in this category. It was also named Bronze Winner of ‘Cabin Concept of the Year 2025’ at the Onboard Hospitality Awards, for its A350-1000 cabin innovation that features elegant design, advanced technology, superior comfort, and exceptional onboard service.
Air Algérie has been officially designated as the Exclusive Transport Sponsor of the highly anticipated ICT AFRICA SUMMIT 2025, scheduled to take place from April 21 to 23, 2025 at the Palais des Expositions, SAFEX, Algiers.
Lawsuits.
The Mozambican Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the hiring of South African company Flymodernark (FMA) to restructure state-owned LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES (LAM). The probe aims to uncover potential corrupt practices and financial mismanagement, following FMA’s contract with the Institute for the Management of State Holdings (IGEPE) from April 2023 to September 2024. FMA’s management revealed embezzlement schemes causing nearly €3 million in losses. The investigation is also looking into the ownership of payment terminals used in ticket sales. Despite the challenges under FMA’s management, the government denies that LAM’s losses are solely due to their involvement, attributing them to long-standing issues. In February, the government authorized the sale of 91% of LAM’s state shares to fund aircraft purchases.
Kenya’s procurement watchdog is investigating the controversial purchase of helicopters for the National Police Service, amid concerns over inflated costs, lack of competition, and non-compliance with procurement laws. An audit revealed the price of three helicopters increased by Ksh 906 million, while the tender involved only one bidder, raising transparency issues. Additionally, missing specifications in the original tender and unexplained payments for currency exchange discrepancies were noted. The Ministry of Interior defended the procurement, citing the need for additional safety features, while the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission is probing potential violations. This investigation is part of a broader pattern of scrutiny over security-related procurements in Kenya.
Aviation Accidents/Incidents.
On Wednesday evening, April 16, 2025, British Airways flight BA58, an Airbus A350 en route from Cape Town to London, was compelled to return to Cape Town International Airport after the flight crew reported smoke in the cockpit. The aircraft had departed shortly before 7:00 PM local time and was nearly two hours into its journey, flying over Namibia, when the emergency was declared. The flight landed safely at Cape Town International Airport around 10:00 PM. All passengers disembarked without incident.
On April 15, 2025, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan (registration 5Y-RSL) experienced a runway excursion upon landing at Paguir Airstrip in South Sudan. No fatalities were reported among those on board, and the extent of aircraft damage remains unknown. The incident occurred during the landing phase, with limited details available from unofficial sources.
On April 16, 2025, a Libyan Airlines Airbus Aircraft A330-202 (registration 5A-LAR) sustained minor damage after colliding with a lamppost while taxiing at Sebha Airport, Libya. The incident occurred after a passenger flight from Tripoli-Mitiga, with no injuries or fatalities reported. The aircraft’s left wingtip was damaged,
In other news:
Egypt is advancing a $530 million Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) project in Alexandria, led by the Egyptian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company (ESAF) and ECHEM. The plant will produce 120,000 tons of SAF annually from used cooking oil, with support from the EBRD, which has completed feasibility studies. Final partnerships and contracts are being secured to begin construction. Once operational, the project will cut CO2 emissions by up to 400,000 tons per year, positioning Egypt as a regional leader in green aviation and supporting global net-zero goals.
The Nigerian government introduced the BisonFly Project on Wednesday, April 17, 2025, in Abuja. The initiative aims to reduce air travel costs for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), promote transparency, and improve fiscal discipline. The platform, which centralizes flight bookings, will allow the government to benefit from bulk discounts and streamline travel planning. It was announced by Finance Minister Wale Edun, with further details shared on the ministry’s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, April 19, 2025.
Skyward Express Ltd, a key domestic carrier in Kenya, has rebranded to Skyward Airlines to reflect its growth and evolving role in the country’s aviation sector. The rebrand aligns with the airline’s expanded network and enhanced services. Skyward Airlines now operates scheduled flights connecting major cities and remote areas, catering to business travelers, tourists, and local communities.
On April 15, 2025, Kenya’s Skyward Express Ltd (now Skyward Airlines) officially joined the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), becoming its newest member. This strategic partnership aims to bolster regional aviation connectivity and foster collaborative growth within Africa’s air transport sector. AFRAA Secretary General Abderahmane Berthe visited Skyward Airline’s headquarters in Nairobi to present the membership certificate.
RwandAir Ltd has announced an enhanced baggage allowance for its Business Class passengers. Effective immediately, travelers holding P and I class tickets are now entitled to three checked bags, each weighing up to 23kg. This update excludes ILITE fares, which remain limited to two 23kg bags.
