Introduction.
The 73rd ACI Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition is currently underway in Arusha, Tanzania, from April 24 to 30, 2025. Hosted by the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), the event brings together over 300 delegates from 53 countries, including aviation leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates. Under the theme “Navigating Towards a Greener Future: Harnessing Sustainable Aviation and Tourism for Economic Prosperity,” the conference focuses on integrating eco-friendly practices in the aviation and tourism sectors to drive economic growth while prioritizing environmental sustainability. A key highlight is the launch of a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) training program, jointly organized by EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency, Airports Council International – ACI Africa, African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC, and African Airlines Association (AFRAA), aimed at boosting SAF adoption across Africa.
Simultaneously, the Ethiopian Aviation Forum 2025 (EAF 2025) took place at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa from April 24 to 25, 2025. This high-profile event gathered global aviation leaders, government officials, aircraft manufacturers, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of aviation in Ethiopia and Africa. The forum serves as a platform to foster networking, innovation, and collaboration, with a focus on advancing Ethiopia‘s aviation industry and driving broader continental development.
African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.
In 2024, RwandAir Ltd experienced a 33% increase in cargo volume, rising from 4,595 tonnes in 2023 to 6,113 tonnes. This growth was driven by strategic moves such as the introduction of two Boeing 737-800SF freighters, which significantly boosted cargo capacity. The airline also expanded its network by adding new cargo destinations, including Dubai and Djibouti, bringing the total number of destinations to seven across Africa and the Middle East. A key partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo further established Kigali as a central air cargo hub in Africa, facilitating greater trade and logistics.
In the first quarter of 2025, General Dynamics’ aerospace unit, which includes Gulfstream Aerospace and Jet Aviation, reported impressive results with a 45.2% year-over-year revenue increase to $3.026 billion and a 69.4% rise in earnings to $432 million. Gulfstream delivered 36 aircraft, a 50% increase from the previous year, including 30 large-cabin jets—13 of which were G700s—and six super-midsize G280s. Gulfstream is set to deliver 150 aircraft in 2025, with the last G650s expected to be delivered by July, after which the newly certified G800 will take over, though its first customer delivery date remains undisclosed. Despite the surge in deliveries, the aerospace backlog decreased by 4% to $18.99 billion, and the book-to-bill ratio dropped to 0.8:1. Nevertheless, demand for Gulfstream jets, particularly in the U.S. and Middle East, remains strong, with quarterly sales matching Q3 2024 figures at $2.4 billion.
On April 24, 2025, Boeing announced on LinkedIn that its 787 Dreamliner is nearing the milestone of carrying 1 billion passengers. This achievement highlights the aircraft’s widespread adoption and operational success. The 787, renowned for its fuel efficiency and advanced technology, is used by airline partners to serve routes across more than 85 countries, enhancing global connectivity. Boeing invited the public to celebrate the milestone by sharing their experiences with the Dreamliner using the hashtag #Dreamliner.
Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.
On April 26, 2025, Kuwait and Tunisia signed an agreement to enhance collaboration in civil aviation, focusing on air transport regulation, air linkage, aviation safety, and security, as well as air service development. Sheikh Humoud Al-Sabah of Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation emphasized the agreement as part of a series to fulfill legal and technical measures with friendly nations. Tunisia’s transport minister highlighted the strong relationship between the two countries and the agreement’s potential for further collaboration in air safety and technical expertise.
On April 23, 2025, The Gambia and Senegal concluded a three-day bilateral engagement in Dakar aimed at strengthening cooperation in road and air transport infrastructure. The Gambian delegation, led by Minister Ebrima Sillah, included officials from various transport bodies. Discussions focused on operational challenges at key infrastructure points like the Senegambia Bridge, progress on joint road projects, and the domestication of air transport agreements. The Senegalese delegation emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to enhance cross-border mobility.
On April 23, 2025, TAAG-Linhas Aereas de Angola and avianca cargo launched a strategic Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) to strengthen air cargo connectivity between Africa and South America. This partnership expands TAAG’s reach to South American cities including Bogotá, Santiago, Lima, Montevideo, and Quito, while Avianca Cargo gains access to key African hubs such as Luanda, Lagos, Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Kinshasa. The agreement is set to boost trade, particularly in perishable goods, machinery, and industrial equipment.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Airway Authority (RVA) has entered into a technical partnership with ASECNA to enhance the training of its aeronautical personnel, including air traffic controllers. The agreement, announced on April 23, 2025, during an official mission to Dakar, Senegal, will initiate a new training cycle in June 2025. The partnership aims to modernize the country’s air navigation infrastructure and improve air safety within its critical airspace.
On April 24, 2025, Kenya Airways and Safarilink Aviation officially launched a transformative codeshare agreement, linking New York’s JFK International Airport to nine premier safari destinations across Kenya. The announcement, made at the picturesque Serena Lodge, represents a milestone in Kenya’s tourism and air connectivity, offering seamless travel for international tourists to explore Kenya’s iconic wildlife.
Embraer, on April 24, 2025, expressed strong interest in exploring investment opportunities within Ethiopia‘s expanding aviation sector. During a meeting with Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Embraer executives discussed potential collaborations in aircraft maintenance, parts manufacturing, and aviation training.
On April 24, 2025, CHC Helicopter signed an MoU with Court Helicopters, a Namibian aviation operator, to explore a strategic partnership enhancing search and rescue (SAR) and crew change operations in Namibia. The partnership will leverage CHC’s global fleet and operational expertise alongside Court Helicopters’ local presence.
Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, expanded its partnership with AVIAREPS Group by appointing them as General Sales Agent (GSA) in Kenya, effective immediately. AVIAREPS EAST AFRICA’s Nairobi team will provide Gulf Air with sales, ticketing, and reservation services to support the airline’s growth in Kenya.
On April 23, 2025, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) formed a partnership to enhance the capacity of aviation engineers in Nigeria. The collaboration, announced during a visit by NSE President Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala to NCAA Director General Capt. Chris Najomo, will focus on capacity-building, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
AirlinePros International was appointed as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Air Sierra Leone in the United Kingdom, effective April 23, 2025. This partnership aims to enhance the airline’s presence in the UK market, coinciding with Air Sierra Leone’s new London–Freetown service, set to begin on June 16, 2025.
Routes and Airline Connectivity.
On April 20, 2025, BURAQ AIR TRANSPORT resumed flights to Sabha, Libya, marking a significant development in domestic air connectivity. The inaugural flight connected southern Libya to Tripoli and other cities. As part of its strategy to expand services within the country, Buraq Air plans to operate flights twice a week initially, with plans to increase frequency based on demand.
Turkish Airlines is set to commence direct flights between Port Sudan (PZU) and Istanbul (IST) on June 3, 2025, enhancing connectivity between Sudan and Türkiye. This announcement was made by Fatih Yıldız, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Sudan, who shared the news on social media. Travelers can now book tickets through Turkish Airlines’ official website.
LOT Polish Airlines will launch a new direct route from Warsaw Chopin Airport to Marrakesh Menara Airport starting on October 29, 2025. This service, operating twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, will be serviced by Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 737-800 aircraft. The addition marks the first direct connection between Poland and Morocco, catering to the growing demand for travel to Morocco‘s cultural and natural attractions.
flyadeal will launch a new international route connecting Jeddah to Alexandria, Egypt, starting June 1, 2025. This is flyadeal’s fourth destination in Egypt, after Cairo, Sohag, and the upcoming seasonal service to Sharm El Sheikh. The new route will operate four times a week, increasing the airline’s total frequency to Egypt to over 50 weekly flights, further expanding its North African footprint.
Transavia, the Dutch low-cost carrier, will introduce new routes from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Marsa Alam (RMF), Egypt, and Rabat-Salé (RBA), Morocco, later this year. Service to Marsa Alam will begin on November 1, 2025, operating once a week with Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Flights to Rabat will start on November 16, 2025, with twice-weekly departures operated by Airbus Aircraft A321neo, expanding Transavia’s presence in North Africa.
AJet, a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, will launch a new route between Ankara Esenboğa, Turkey, and Cairo, Egypt, starting June 1, 2025, with three weekly flights. This new service enhances connectivity between Turkey and Egypt. Additionally, SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, will begin flights to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on June 7, 2025, operating once a week.
Ethiopian Airlines will commence double-daily flights between Addis Ababa and Lagos, Nigeria, starting June 1, 2025. This increase in frequency, from a single daily flight to double, aims to accommodate growing demand, offering more flexibility and convenience for travelers. This move is in line with Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy to strengthen its position as a leading carrier in Africa.
ValueJet, a Nigerian airline, will launch a new direct flight route between Lagos, Nigeria, and Banjul, The Gambia, starting May 15, 2025. The service will operate twice a week, with departures from Lagos on Thursdays and Sundays, and return flights from Banjul on Mondays and Fridays. This route will enhance regional travel and tourism links between Nigeria and The Gambia.
Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.
Air Sierra Leone, the newly established carrier, has taken delivery of a 6.7-year-old Boeing 737-8 MAX on lease from Ascend Airways. The aircraft, registered G-CRUX, was delivered on April 25, 2025, and is configured with 189 all-economy seats. Before joining Air Sierra Leone, this 737-8 MAX was in service with SmartLynx Airlines Ltd Malta starting May 2024 and had previously operated with Air Transat. This marks a significant step in the airline’s growth as it expands its fleet to meet the needs of regional air travel.
Mauritania Airlines has expanded its fleet by adding a wet-leased Airbus A320 from Malta-based MedAir to bolster its capacity during a period of reduced aircraft availability. The aircraft, which arrived in Nouakchott on April 20, 2025, is expected to operate both domestic and regional routes. This addition follows the reactivation of the airline’s Boeing 737 MAX 8, which had been in storage for about a year, further strengthening Mauritania Airlines’ regional connectivity.
Cameroon‘s Cronos Regional, a subsidiary of Cronos Airlines, has welcomed its first VIP-configured aircraft, an Embraer Legacy 600. The 20.4-year-old jet, registered TJ-KKA (msn 14500832), became operational on April 14, 2025, after being stored in Ben Slimane, Morocco, since 2022. Previously operated by Greece’s MARATHON AIRLINES S.A. under the registration SX-KKA, this aircraft adds a new dimension to Cronos Regional’s fleet, catering to the growing demand for private and VIP air travel.
On April 24, 2025, South Africa‘s FlySafair took delivery of an 8-year-old Boeing 737-800, previously operated by flydubai. The aircraft arrived at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport via Mombasa, marking FlySafair’s second acquisition of the year. With this addition, FlySafair’s fleet of Boeing 737-800s now totals 32, making it the largest operator of this model in Africa.
AirKenya Express Limited has expanded its fleet with the addition of a 28.6-year-old De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited DHC-8-Q200, which departed Calgary on April 17, 2025. The aircraft, leased from Avmax Group, is currently in storage awaiting registration (previously C-FGFO) and will join an existing Dash 8 Q200 in service to further enhance the airline’s regional connectivity. Another DHC-8-Q200 unit is expected for delivery in Q2 2025, continuing AirKenya’s efforts to strengthen its operations and capacity.
LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES has returned two CRJ900 aircraft, which were previously leased from South Africa’s CemAir (Pty)Ltd, due to financial difficulties. The final CRJ900 was returned to Johannesburg on April 22, 2025, marking the end of the leasing agreement. These aircraft were integral to LAM Mozambique’s operations, which aimed to increase capacity. With the return of the CRJ900s, the airline now relies on a smaller fleet consisting of three Embraer ERJ135/145 aircraft leased from Solenta Aviation Mozambique and Everett Aviation.
Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.
Boeing officially inaugurated its new African headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on April 22, 2025, marking a major milestone in its global expansion strategy. This move further strengthens Boeing’s commitment to Africa’s aviation sector and enhances U.S.-Ethiopia trade and investment relations. The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime; U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga; Director General of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, Getachew Mengistu; and CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mesfin Tasew. The office, located in the Mezzanine Floor of Minaye Tower in Kirkos Sub-City, will serve as Boeing’s administrative hub for the continent.
On April 20, 2025, the African Space Agency (AfSA) officially opened its permanent headquarters within Egypt‘s Space City, a 123-acre complex in Cairo. The inauguration, held during the 2025 NewSpace Africa Conference, was attended by dignitaries from across Africa and the global space community, including representatives from the African Union Commission, national governments, and space agencies such as the European Space Agency – ESA, NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Italian Space Agency.
The Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) successfully installed a new Doppler VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range (DVOR) and co-located Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) at Banjul International Airport (Yundum International Airport) on April 22, 2025. The new equipment, installed in partnership with UK-based Systems Interface Ltd, replaces systems that had been in use for over two decades. These upgrades will improve navigational safety, providing more precise bearing and distance information for pilots approaching the airport, as part of The Gambia’s broader efforts to modernize its aviation infrastructure.
Kenya has announced a $245 million expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, following the cancellation of a previous agreement with India’s Adani Group due to corruption allegations. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi met with officials from beijing urban construction group co (BUCG) in Beijing, where President William Ruto was also present. BUCG, which has extensive experience in airport construction, has been invited to bid on the project. The expansion will include new terminals, extended runways, and improved support infrastructure, including upgraded security and customs facilities, to enhance passenger and cargo capacity.
Zambia is progressing with the $40 million upgrade of Mansa Airport, a project under a partnership with the Zambian government and China Jiangsu International. The development is currently 7% complete, following a 17-month Design and Build model. Despite delays caused by funding issues, construction is now underway, with the government committed to accelerating financial disbursements and environmental approvals to ensure timely completion.
On April 22, 2025, the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) signed a contract with China‘s STECOL Corporation for the upgrade of Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). The renovation will focus on rehabilitating the runway and installing advanced aircraft guidance lights, enhancing safety and capacity. This upgrade is crucial for Tanzania’s tourism and trade sectors, as KIA serves as a major gateway for visitors to iconic attractions such as Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti.
Air Botswana is facing significant financial challenges, with April 2025 salaries delayed until May due to cash flow problems and poor financial performance. The airline’s Embraer fleet is grounded, with one E170 awaiting overhaul and an E175 still awaiting operational approval from the Botswana Civil Aviation Authority after experiencing an engine issue. Despite government support, Air Botswana is struggling to cover its mounting debts and operational expenses.
As of April 2025, Kenya Airways (KQ) shares have remained inactive on the DAR ES SALAAM STOCK EXCHANGE (DSE) for over three months, despite resumed trading on the Nairobi Securities Exchange PLC (NSE) following the lifting of a suspension. The Capital Markets Authority- Kenya (CMA) cites the centralization of KQ’s share registry in Nairobi as the primary reason for the inactivity, preventing shares from being available on the Tanzanian bourse. Potential sellers in Tanzania may also be hesitant to divest, anticipating future price increases. As a result, KQ’s share price remains stagnant at TZS 80 per share on the DSE, while it has risen by 13.31% on the NSE since trading resumed.
Royal Air Maroc Cargo has unveiled a strategic plan to expand its global presence and enhance service offerings in the air cargo sector. The airline aims to strengthen Morocco‘s position as a logistics hub connecting Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. The expansion includes new destinations, fleet modernization, and a focus on digital transformation to improve operational efficiency. Sustainability efforts will also be prioritized, with a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of its cargo operations.
South African Airways (SAA) is undertaking a significant restructuring initiative, aiming to raise R2.25 billion through a two-phase corporate turnaround plan. The first phase focuses on securing an equity partner, while the second phase will overhaul the airline’s governance structure. The plan, which has been submitted to the government, aims to stabilize SAA’s operations and ensure long-term sustainability by creating a three-tier entity comprising a group holding company, a property company, and an aircraft asset management company, with the airline operating separately under this new structure.
Petróleos de Moçambique (PETROMOC) sold a 20% stake in Maputo International Airport Fuelling Services Limitada (MIAFS) to I2A Investimentos e Participações, S.A. on April 22, 2025. The move, confirmed by the Competition Regulatory Authority (ARC), ensures compliance with Mozambique‘s Competition Law No. 10/2013, which prevents monopolistic control of essential services. PETROMOC had fully owned MIAFS, responsible for aviation fuel storage and refueling at Maputo International Airport. The sale introduces I2A as a minority shareholder, promoting competition, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
In Sudan, authorities began cleaning operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT/HSSK) on April 27, 2025, focusing on the apron and runway areas. This marks the first phase in preparing the airport for extensive maintenance and reconstruction following significant damage caused by the conflict in April 2023. The airport, which had been non-operational for nearly two years, suffered extensive destruction from the activities of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia.
VISA/Passports.
The Government of Georgia has announced stricter entry regulations for citizens of 17 countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ghana, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Yemen, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The new measures, formalized in a government resolution on April 17, 2025, will take effect on May 16, 2025. Under the amended rules, citizens from these countries will be denied entry into Georgia if their visas or residence permits from Gulf nations—specifically Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—have less than one year of validity remaining at the time of their entry.
Egypt has extended its 96-hour free transit visa program until April 30, 2026, allowing travelers with layovers of 8 to 96 hours at Egyptian airports—including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Borg El Arab—to explore the country without the need for a visa or complex paperwork. Originally introduced in June 2023 to boost tourism, the program has now been expanded to include EGYPTAIR, its subsidiaries Air Cairo and Nile Air, and travelers flying with these carriers. Eligibility is limited to nationals from countries that qualify for a visa on arrival or emergency entry, such as most EU nations, the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Starting Monday, April 28, 2025, Ghana will begin issuing new chip-embedded passports as part of a comprehensive passport reform initiative designed to enhance document security and streamline the application process. The new e-passports incorporate advanced security features, including more than 100 overt and covert elements such as nanotechnology and micro radio frequency identification (RFID) chips, making them nearly impossible to forge. These e-passports comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, particularly ICAO Document 9303, which provides guidelines for implementing Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs) and e-passports.
People/Appointment.
Air France-KLM has appointed Joris Holtus as the new General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana, effective immediately. Holtus succeeds Marius van der Ham, who held the position for the past three years and played a key role in strengthening the Group’s presence and partnerships across the region. With over 25 years of senior leadership experience across four continents, Holtus brings a wealth of expertise in commercial strategy, customer experience, and business transformation. He returns to the African continent after serving as General Manager for Southern Africa at Air France-KLM, where he was responsible for the airline’s commercial, operational, and organizational functions for three years.
On April 22, 2025, Colin Chang Tave was appointed as the inaugural CEO of the newly established Seychelles Airports Authority (SAA). With nearly three decades of experience at the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), Chang-Tave brings a wealth of knowledge in the aviation sector. His appointment is part of a broader restructuring effort, as the SAA takes over the management and development of Seychelles’ airports, while the SCAA focuses exclusively on regulation and oversight. This transition is expected to streamline operations and foster growth within the country’s aviation infrastructure, as the SAA takes on the responsibility of enhancing the nation’s airport services.
Pilot Ahmed Adel, Chairman and CEO of Egyptair Holding Company, appointed engineer Rasha Azmy as the new Head of the Projects and Facilities Maintenance Sector. Azmy succeeds engineer Ahmed El-Kady, who retired upon reaching the official age of retirement. This appointment highlights EgyptAir’s commitment to promoting professional development and ensuring the continued success and efficiency of the airline’s infrastructure and development projects.
Samukelisiwe Tembe has made history as the first female LiSwati pilot at Eswatini Air. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for both the airline and the broader aviation sector in Eswatini, inspiring women across the country and beyond to pursue careers in aviation.
Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.
EGYPTAIR MAINTENANCE AND ENGINEERING has successfully renewed its certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the 15th consecutive year, as announced on April 20, 2025. This achievement highlights the company’s steadfast dedication to maintaining the highest international standards in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The certification renewal followed a thorough on-site audit conducted by FAA inspectors, who assessed various facets of EgyptAir Maintenance & Engineering’s operations, including quality assurance protocols, maintenance safety procedures, aircraft maintenance hangars, technical and spare parts warehousing, and workshops dedicated to the overhaul and repair of mechanical and electrical aircraft components.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Cap Skirring International Airport in Senegal received full certification in accordance with ICAO standards. This milestone follows the airport’s reopening in December 2021 after significant renovations and makes Senegal the only member state in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) to have two internationally certified airports, the other being Aéroport International Blaise Diagne SA in Diass. Located in the Casamance region, renowned for its tourism, Cap Skirring International is currently served by Air Sénégal S.A., Transair, and seasonal charter flights from Europe, although it remains a relatively low-traffic airport.
Lawsuits.
The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) has placed Air Mauritius, British Airways, and Emirates under surveillance as part of an ongoing investigation into an international drug trafficking network operating through London Gatwick Airport. The investigation, which was triggered by the accidental discovery of cocaine aboard a British Airways flight, alleges that Air Mauritius has been used to transport drugs to the island nation. British Airways and Emirates are also suspected of being involved in smuggling narcotics, diamonds, and cash into the UK. The NCA is investigating the possibility of insider involvement among airport staff, with the trafficking network potentially exploiting the airlines’ operations to move illicit goods.
South Africa‘s domestic aviation industry is currently under scrutiny by parliamentary committees due to growing concerns about consumer protection, competition, and regulatory oversight. Allegations of anti-competitive practices, overbooking, and excessive pricing among low-cost carriers have led to increased passenger complaints and legal action, including a warning from the National Consumer Commission regarding illegal overbooking practices. The committees are considering launching a parliamentary inquiry and seeking legal advice. In addition, the sector faces regulatory challenges, such as a cyberattack on the South African Weather Service in January 2025, which disrupted essential flight data, and staffing shortages at Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), which have impacted airspace management. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is also under investigation for financial mismanagement, including unpaid service provider debts and controversial executive bonuses despite reported profits.
On April 25, 2025, Paul Kasonde, AVSEC-PM, CSMP, the former Manager for Aviation Security at Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL), filed a lawsuit in the Lusaka High Court following his dismissal. Kasonde was terminated after former President Edgar Lungu was cleared for departure at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) without undergoing full security screening. Kasonde claims this incident led to his unjust dismissal and is seeking damages for mental and emotional distress, unpaid salaries and allowances, accrued interest, and legal costs. His legal representation, Kayula & Associates, submitted the statement of claim, emphasizing the alleged security breach and its far-reaching consequences.
Aviation Accidents/Incidents.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 00:21 local time, an Air Côte d’Ivoire Airbus A319-112, registered TU-TSZ, operating flight HF-9030 from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB/FAOR) to Kinshasa N’Djili Airport (FIH/FZAA), encountered an incident during its initial climb. While ascending through flight level 310, the crew initiated an emergency descent to flight level 100 and subsequently decided to return to Johannesburg. The aircraft landed safely on runway 21R approximately 45 minutes after departure. The @South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA is reportedly investigating the incident. All passengers and crew were unharmed, and the aircraft sustained no damage.
On April 26, 2025, Kenya Airways flight KQ484, operating from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to Dar es Salaam (DAR), was forced to return to Nairobi just 25 minutes after takeoff due to concerns over a potential leakage of hazardous biological material. Upon landing, the aircraft’s cargo compartment was fumigated as a precautionary measure. Health authorities boarded the aircraft, recorded the contact details of all passengers, and conducted initial assessments.
On Monday, April 21, 2025, at approximately 07:00 local time, an Ayres S2R-T34 Turbo Thrush agricultural aircraft, operated by PHP and possibly registered as TJ-AII, crashed near Njombe, Cameroon. While maneuvering, the pilot reportedly clipped a tree, leading to the destruction of the aircraft. The sole occupant, the pilot, fortunately sustained no fatalities.
Also on April 21, 2025, at 11:55 UTC, a privately-owned Porto Aviation Risen aircraft experienced a gear-up landing at Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG/GMTT) in Morocco due to a reported mechanical malfunction. The aircraft, possibly registered PH-0A0, was arriving from Granada Airport (GRX/LEGR) in Spain. While the aircraft sustained minor damage, the sole occupant, the pilot, was transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation.
In other news:
A new strategic partnership between Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and the CAF Confederation of African Football has placed Algeria in a diplomatically sensitive situation. Under the agreement, RAM is appointed as the official and exclusive carrier for all CAF competitions, including the men’s and women’s Africa Cup of Nations. As part of the deal, CAF member states are required to facilitate access for Royal Air Maroc flights, including granting overflight rights for teams and logistics. However, since severing diplomatic ties with Morocco in September 2021, Algeria has banned Moroccan aviation, including RAM. This creates a significant dilemma for Algeria, as failure to comply with the agreement could lead to serious consequences, including suspension from CAF tournaments, loss of key broadcasting and sponsorship revenues, and further isolation from regional partnerships.
On April 23, 2025, workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) initiated an indefinite nationwide strike, citing poor working conditions, delayed implementation of the national minimum wage, and inequities in allowances compared to other aviation agencies. The strike caused major disruptions in flight operations, with Air Peace Limited suspending all flights, and other airlines facing delays and cancellations at major airports, including Abuja, Lagos, and Kano. The Federal Government quickly intervened, with Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo meeting with union leaders and NiMet officials to address the concerns. As a result, the unions agreed to suspend the strike until May 13, 2025, allowing time for the government to implement the national minimum wage and make necessary salary adjustments.
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has launched a feasibility study for a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) program as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector. This initiative aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) global goal of achieving net-zero aviation carbon emissions by 2050. The SAF program aims to utilize alternative fuels derived from renewable or waste sources to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. UCAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye underscored Uganda’s dedication to supporting ICAO’s environmental strategies and emphasized the country’s readiness to advance initiatives on environmental protection, including SAF adoption. The feasibility study will involve collaboration with stakeholders to collect data and assess Uganda’s potential for SAF production and use. UCAA is committed to progressing the initiative toward successful implementation.
