Introduction.

The 11th African Flight Procedure Programme (AFPP) Steering Committee meeting took place in Lusaka, Zambia, from May 21 to 23, 2025. Hosted by the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) in partnership with the African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the meeting brought together key stakeholders responsible for developing and implementing standardized flight procedures across Africa. The AFPP’s goal is to enhance aviation safety, efficiency, and capacity by creating precise instrument flight procedures tailored to African airports.

Concurrently, the 18th plenary session of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) convened from May 19 to 21, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria. Hosted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the event gathered aviation ministers, civil aviation directors, airline operators, and representatives from regional and international aviation bodies. A key outcome was the adoption of a $1 Passenger Safety Charge (PSC) on all international commercial flights departing from BAG member states. This charge will fund the Banjul Accord Group Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO) and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA). The PSC is scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, with full implementation expected by 2030, subject to national legislative approvals.

From May 19 to 20, 2025, the 12th meeting of the Collaborative Arrangement for the Prevention and Management of Public Health Events in Civil Aviation (CAPSCA EUR-MID/12) was held in Cairo, Egypt. Hosted by Egypt’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and organized in collaboration with ICAO’s Europe/North Atlantic (EUR/NAT) and Middle East (MID) regional offices, this meeting followed the previous CAPSCA EUR-MID session held in Cologne, Germany, in April 2024. The event focused on sharing experiences and best practices among member states to strengthen public health emergency response plans. The goal was to safeguard the continuity and safety of air transport while minimizing the impact of health crises on international travel and trade.

Meanwhile, a four-day training workshop on the Abuja Declaration on Aviation Safety in Africa commenced on May 20, 2025, in Juba, South Sudan. Organized by the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA Secretariat) in collaboration with the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat, the workshop supports efforts to boost aviation safety and regulatory capacity across East African, Southern African, and Indian Ocean (EA-SA-IO) regions. Since its adoption in 2012, the Abuja Declaration has outlined 16 key safety targets, including the establishment of autonomous civil aviation authorities and strict compliance with international safety standards, to elevate aviation safety across the continent.

AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.

Libya’s Ministry of Transport, through the Civil Aviation Authority based in Tripoli, officially reopened Tripoli International Airport to private and ambulance flights effective Tuesday, 20 May 2025. This announcement was communicated via a circular issued through the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS), the formal channel for disseminating critical aviation operational updates. The circular detailed the airport’s technical readiness, highlighting available runways, flight corridors, and air communication systems, indicating that the airport has regained sufficient operational capacity for limited air traffic. This reopening represents a key milestone in the phased restoration of the airport, which had been largely inactive or minimally used due to prolonged conflict and infrastructure damage.

Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea-Conakry, Cape Verde, and Gambia jointly launched the Single African Air Market (SAAM), an initiative aimed at eliminating barriers and enhancing Africa’s footprint in global aviation. This effort, announced at the conclusion of the 18th plenary session of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) on May 22, 2025, in Abuja, seeks to foster a more integrated, competitive air travel network across the continent. The SAAM rollout is poised to significantly transform intra-African air connectivity and strengthen the continent’s role in global air transport.

African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.

The Visa – African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Airline Payment Maturity Index survey, presented at the Aviation Stakeholders Convention in Kigali, Rwanda, highlighted significant opportunities for African airlines to enhance financial performance, reduce fraud, and improve passenger experiences through modernization of payment systems. Key findings showed that while payment architecture compliance is a current focus, operational efficiency can be greatly enhanced by upgrading systems and leveraging digital tools more effectively. Fraud management and payment approval rates require urgent attention, and organizational support for payment systems remains only moderate. By adopting robust key performance indicators (KPIs), airlines can make more data-driven decisions. Overall, the study underscores that modern, secure payment systems are vital for unlocking new revenue streams, strengthening security, and driving strategic growth for African carriers.

Morocco welcomed 5.7 million tourists in the first four months of 2025, a remarkable 23% increase compared to the same period in 2024, fueled by strong tourism policies under King Mohammed VI’s leadership. April alone saw 1.7 million visitors, up 27% year-on-year, signaling growing appeal beyond traditional peak seasons. Tourism revenue for Q1 2025 reached MAD 24.62 billion, a 2.4% rise from the previous year. Post-pandemic investments in airport upgrades, infrastructure, and expanded airline partnerships have enhanced connectivity and travel experience. Looking ahead, Morocco aims to capitalize on major upcoming events like the 2030 World Cup to further boost its global tourism stature.

In 2024, Mozambique’s air transport sector carried over 2.4 million passengers, marking a nearly 25% rise from 2023, with 2,445,240 passengers and 81,636 aircraft movements recorded. Passenger traffic is projected to grow another 11% in 2025 to exceed 2.7 million, driven by infrastructure improvements at tourist hubs such as Vilanculos and Inhambane, alongside efforts to attract higher-value international tourists. The Civil Aviation Authority of Mozambique (IACM) forecasts passenger numbers to near 3 million by 2027, with cargo volumes increasing from 18,027 tonnes in 2024 to over 21,600 tonnes by 2027. By the end of 2024, Mozambique had 88 registered aircraft operated by 14 commercial carriers, supported by 12 airports, 21 public aerodromes, and 256 private aerodromes.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) reports that aviation contributes $1.7 billion to Nigeria’s GDP, reflecting the positive impact of private sector participation. FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi (Bunmi) K. credited market-driven solutions and airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air for revitalizing the sector after years of difficulties. Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem now includes 39 certified airlines, 31 airports, over 2,100 licensed pilots, and millions of domestic and international passengers. While challenges in infrastructure and regulation persist, Kuku emphasized these as investment opportunities, positioning the sector for continued growth and transformation. These remarks were made during the launch of “100 Years of Civil Aviation in Nigeria” by Wole Shadare.

Air Service Agreements (ASA’s)/Airlines Agreements/Partnerships.

On May 21, 2025, Qatar and Benin Republic held a high-level meeting to deepen bilateral cooperation across strategic sectors, with a strong focus on aviation. The discussions centered on the potential launch of direct flights between Doha and Cotonou and future collaboration between Qatar Airways and Benin’s emerging national carrier, Amazon Airlines. This initiative is expected to enhance Benin’s economic profile by attracting investment, boosting tourism, facilitating freight transport, and promoting cultural exchange. The meeting also reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to supporting development efforts in Africa, particularly in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

On May 16, 2025, Mozambique and Angola signed two landmark transport agreements during Mozambican President Daniel Chapo’s first official visit to a CPLP member state since assuming office. The air services agreement will establish permanent air links between the two nations, enhancing connectivity and economic integration. Complementing this, a maritime transport agreement will bolster cooperation in merchant navy operations, port management, and related sectors. These agreements represent a major step forward in deepening bilateral relations, focusing on improved air and sea transport to support broader economic and tourism cooperation within the Lusophone community.

Cirium, a global leader in aviation analytics, announced a strategic data partnership with the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) to strengthen data-driven decision-making across Africa’s aviation sector. This collaboration aims to enhance analytical frameworks, improve connectivity, reduce operational costs, and support sustainable growth. The announcement comes as international passenger traffic to and from Africa surged by 27% year-on-year in 2024, reflecting renewed momentum in regional air travel. Through access to Cirium’s advanced tools—such as Diio SRS Analyzer, Ascend Fleets Analyzer, and the Cirium Dashboard—AFRAA will enrich its market intelligence capabilities and provide enhanced support to its member airlines.

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has partnered with Touch Inflight Solutions to roll out next-generation, scalable in-flight entertainment (IFE) across its expanding fleet. The new IFE system will feature a curated selection of Hollywood blockbusters alongside Moroccan cinema, music, and storytelling, spotlighting regional culture. Touch will also provide dedicated French-speaking customer support and real-time content updates. This partnership aligns with RAM’s ambitious plan to quadruple its fleet to 150 aircraft by 2037, with a strategic focus on boosting tourism ahead of Morocco’s hosting of the 2030 World Cup.

LIFT , South Africa’s premium low-cost airline, has signed a multi-year distribution agreement with Sabre Corporation, making its domestic flight inventory accessible through the Sabre Travel Marketplace. This partnership will significantly expand LIFT’s global reach by connecting it to travel agencies, corporate booking platforms, and travel management companies (TMCs) across Africa and beyond. The move supports LIFT’s ongoing domestic network expansion and the rising passenger demand seen in 2024. Operating routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, LIFT is known for unique offerings such as dog-friendly flights and premium coffee onboard.

On May 21, 2025, Uganda Airlines appointed APG Airlines as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in the United Kingdom, coinciding with the launch of direct flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick, which commenced on May 18, 2025. APG UK will provide comprehensive sales, marketing, ticketing, and reservation support, while actively engaging with the UK travel trade to promote Uganda Airlines’ brand and services.

On May 23, 2025, four key Tanzanian aviation entities—the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) , TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA), Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA), and AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED (ATCL)—formalized a strategic agreement to launch an Integrated Payment System. This collaborative initiative aims to unify billing processes across the aviation value chain, fostering greater efficiency, transparency, and accountability. The joint invoicing framework will simplify transactions for customers and stakeholders by consolidating charges from multiple agencies into a single streamlined payment platform. This move is expected to enhance service delivery, reduce administrative bottlenecks, and improve inter-agency coordination within Tanzania’s aviation sector.

Lagardère Travel Retail (LTR), the world’s second-largest airport retail operator, is expanding into its seventh African market through a strategic partnership with South African tourism company Tourvest Retail Services. This expansion aims to capitalize on Africa’s rapidly growing airport retail sector, driven by rising passenger traffic, tourism, and demand for duty-free shopping. LTR currently operates in six African countries—Benin, Gambia, Gabon, Mauritania, Senegal, and Tanzania—and identifies South Africa as a crucial strategic market. The collaboration was formalized with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on May 22, 2025, during the France-South Africa Investment Week hosted by MEDEF International.

Routes and Airline Connectivity.

MY FREIGHTER, an Uzbekistan-based cargo airline, successfully operated its inaugural flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 21, 2025. This milestone marks the launch of a new international cargo route between Uzbekistan and Kenya, with regular biweekly flights planned. The airline aims to transport perishable goods such as fresh-cut flowers, seafood, fruits, and vegetables from Kenya to Uzbekistan and other Central Asian markets. Additionally, a portion of the cargo will be re-exported, expanding regional access to fresh African produce. The inaugural Boeing 757-223 (PCF) flight followed the route: Tashkent → Mumbai → Nairobi → Dubai → Tashkent.

Corendon Airlines is adding a new twice-weekly route from Nuremberg Airport (NUE) to Sharm El Sheikh (SSH), Egypt, for the winter 2025/2026 season, operating on Tuesdays and Fridays. This route responds to strong demand from travelers in Northern Bavaria seeking leisure trips to Egypt. It complements recent expansions of Nuremberg’s network, including new Wizz Air routes to Romania, further strengthening connectivity to popular Red Sea destinations.

Spanish airline Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas will operate select long-haul flights on behalf of Air Algérie under a newly signed ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) agreement, as reported on May 21, 2025. The initial 12-month agreement includes deploying at least one Airbus Aircraft A330-200 on Air Algérie’s daily nonstop route between Algiers (ALG) and Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL). Both carriers remain open to expanding the partnership to cover additional medium- and long-haul routes.

South African Airways (SAA) announced a suite of new domestic and regional routes as part of its post-restructuring recovery plan, unveiled at Africa’s Travel Indaba in May 2025 by Interim CCO Tebogo Tsimane. Domestic expansions include Johannesburg–George (launching April 2026), Johannesburg–East London, and Cape Town–Durban, aimed at boosting national connectivity and regional growth. Regionally, SAA will launch flights from Johannesburg to Gaborone in October 2025 and seasonal services from Cape Town to Mauritius starting November 2025, strengthening ties with neighboring markets and leisure travel. These expansions align with the African Union’s SAATM goals to enhance intra-African connectivity. Furthermore, SAA plans to resume intercontinental services in 2026 to Mumbai and Guangzhou, reinforcing global presence and strategic BRICS partnerships.

Morocco’s National Tourism Office (ONMT) and Transavia, the low-cost airline of the Air France-KLM group, announced a major winter 2025 expansion of air service from France to Morocco. The partnership will add 14 new routes and over 130,000 additional seats, increasing capacity by 30%. New direct flights will connect French cities—including Rennes, Lille, Marseille, and Paris—to Moroccan destinations such as Agadir, Marrakech, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, Dakhla, and Errachidia. Highlights include two new routes to Dakhla, a direct Nantes–Essaouira connection, and strengthened Marrakech hub services to Berlin and Venice. Agadir will become a seasonal hub with a dedicated aircraft base, while Marrakech will host two additional aircraft, marking Transavia’s first bases outside France. This expansion solidifies Morocco as Transavia’s top destination by seat-kilometers and supports ONMT’s goal of growing year-round tourism and diversifying travel options.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi announced new seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi (Zayed International Airport) and Giza (Sphinx International Airport), operating thrice weekly from June 26 to September 11, 2025. This service aims to offer affordable, convenient travel options during the summer peak season.

Discover Airlines, part of the Lufthansa Group, will launch a new nonstop route from Frankfurt to the Seychelles starting October 26, operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Sundays. Flights depart Frankfurt at 21:55, arriving in Mahé at 10:45 the following day, with return services overnight. This route enhances connectivity to the Seychelles and strengthens Lufthansa Group’s regional presence. Additionally, Discover Airlines has updated Mauritius schedules for better connections and will introduce a new direct Frankfurt–Mauritius flight for the 2025/26 winter season to meet growing demand. This marks Lufthansa Group’s first direct Germany–Seychelles service, complementing Edelweiss Air AG’s Zurich–Seychelles flights.

Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling Airlines will launch a new international route between Seville, Spain, and Essaouira, Morocco, starting October 4, 2025, with weekly Saturday flights. Departing Seville at 08:20 and arriving in Essaouira at 09:00, the approximately 1 hour 40 minute flight will improve regional connectivity and provide affordable access to Essaouira. Known for its UNESCO-listed historic port, vibrant music scene, and popular surfing beaches, Essaouira offers a compelling alternative to Casablanca or Marrakech.

Air France will increase its Paris–Cape Town service during the 2025/26 southern summer season, operating daily flights from December 15, 2025, to January 12, 2026—up from three weekly flights the previous season. Flight AF0871 departs Cape Town at 08:50, arriving in Paris at 19:20, while the return flight AF0890 leaves Paris at 18:30, arriving in Cape Town at 06:45 the next day.

Zambia Airways 2014 plans to relaunch its direct Lusaka–Harare route on June 17, 2025, with thrice-weekly flights. Initially launched in 2023 but subsequently paused, the route aims to strengthen regional mobility, tourism, and economic ties between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The direct service will reduce travel time and eliminate lengthy layovers, appealing to business and leisure travelers while supporting growth in Southern Africa’s aviation market.

Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.

On May 24, 2025, Ethiopian Airlines took delivery of a brand-new Boeing 777F freighter, registered ET-BAC (formerly N20112, MSN 68141). Powered by two GE90-110B1 engines, this aircraft strengthens the airline’s cargo fleet, marking the arrival of its 12th Boeing 777F. With ET-BAC added, Ethiopian Airlines now operates a total of 12 Boeing 777 freighters, enhancing its capacity to meet growing air freight demand.

On May 14, 2025, AURIC AIR SERVICES LIMITED expanded its fleet with the arrival of a second Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-12, registered 5H-SAR, further boosting its ability to meet rising demand for premium regional and private air travel across East Africa. Delivered via a cross-continental route, the aircraft is now based in Tanzania and will serve remote destinations including national parks and islands. This addition aligns with Auric Air’s mission to provide flexible, high-comfort travel options throughout Tanzania’s key tourism circuits.

Uganda Airlines has extended its wet lease agreement with Danish Air Transport (DAT) for an Airbus A320-200 by an additional 12 months, effective May 2025. Configured with 12 business and 144 economy seats, this aircraft supports vital regional routes including Nairobi, Lagos, Abuja, Johannesburg, and Kinshasa. The lease includes DAT crew based in Entebbe on a rotating three-week schedule. After two months, the agreement will transition to a semi-damp lease model, with Uganda Airlines supplying cabin crew while DAT continues to provide pilots.

Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.

On May 21, 2025, the Central African Republic (CAR) signed a $2.5 billion investment framework agreement with U.S.-based American Eagle Business Solutions (AEBS) to develop a new international airport in Boboula, located in the northwestern Ouham region. This project aims to alleviate capacity constraints at Bangui-M’Poko International Airport—the country’s only international gateway—and improve regional connectivity, especially to underserved areas. The airport will be developed through a public-private partnership, with AEBS managing the entire process from feasibility studies through to commissioning.

Nigeria Oyo State Government announced that Ladoke Akintola International Airport in Ibadan is set to commence international flight operations by June 2026. The new international terminal is currently 15% complete, while runway upgrades are underway to extend its length from 2,400 to 3,000 metres and widen it from 45 to 60 metres to accommodate wide-body aircraft. Airfield lighting has been enhanced to CAT C standards, and firefighting capabilities have been upgraded. Facilities for Customs, Immigration, and other agencies are being installed. Domestic flight operations are expected to resume by the end of 2025, with runway, apron, taxiway, and blast pad works currently 55% complete. The airport was temporarily closed in March 2025 to accelerate construction, aligning with government plans to modernize the facility and boost both domestic and international travel.

Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is on track to complete a new, state-of-the-art air traffic control tower at Kotoka International Airport by the end of 2025. This facility will enhance safety and efficiency across the Accra Flight Information Region. The project is part of a broader modernization initiative that includes separating regulatory functions from air navigation services to establish an independent Air Navigation Services Provider (ANSP), in line with ICAO best practices. GCAA Director-General Stephen W. Arthur highlighted ongoing efforts to improve staff morale and professional development under the theme “No Staff Left Behind.” These reforms aim to support Ghana’s expanding aviation sector and reinforce Accra’s status as a leading West African aviation hub.

Libya has begun construction of Al Musheer Airport in Ajdabiya, projected to become Africa’s largest airport. This ambitious project seeks to position Ajdabiya as a regional air transport hub, enhancing Libya’s connectivity with neighboring countries and beyond. The airport will feature advanced facilities, including multiple runways and extensive cargo terminals, designed to accommodate increased passenger and freight traffic and stimulate economic growth. Ajdabiya’s strategic location at the crossroads of key trade routes in eastern Libya makes it ideally suited to serve as a major gateway for North Africa and the Middle East.

On May 1, 2025, Terminals Holding LLC, an Emirati conglomerate closely linked to the Abu Dhabi royal family, officially took control of Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport in Moroni, Comoros. This followed extensive diplomatic engagement with the Comorian presidency. Terminals Holding secured a 30-year concession to operate both the airport and its ground handling subsidiary, Com’Air Assistance. The company plans to invest $100 million between 2025 and 2027 to upgrade infrastructure and strengthen Indian Ocean regional connectivity.

RwandAir Ltd has launched RwandAir Holidays, a new online platform integrated into its website that enables customers to book flights, accommodation, airport transfers, and local experiences all in one place. The platform offers customizable holiday packages with optional services such as seat selection, extra baggage, and travel insurance. Fouad Caunhye, RwandAir’s Chief Commercial Officer, described the initiative as a “game changer” for African travel, offering greater convenience, personalization, and value for travelers to, from, and within Africa. RwandAir currently operates daily flights from London Heathrow to Kigali and thrice-weekly services from Paris and Brussels.

German defense electronics company HENSOLDT is planning to sell its South African optronics subsidiary, which produces high-precision optics such as cameras for helicopters and drones. Despite generating approximately €15 million (around $17 million) in annual revenue, the unit is operating at a loss. Hensoldt is reportedly in talks with about 20 potential buyers. The parent company is well-known for manufacturing radar systems and precision optics for military platforms including aircraft, ships, and tanks.

VISA/Passports/Travel.

Barbados is actively encouraging Kenyan nationals to explore its visa-free travel benefits and remote work opportunities. Kenyan passport holders can enter Barbados without a visa, making the island an inviting destination for both tourism and longer stays. For remote workers, Barbados offers the 12-Month Welcome Stamp program, which allows individuals and families to live and work remotely on the island for up to one year. Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least USD 50,000, hold valid health insurance, and pay a fee of USD 2,000 for individuals or USD 3,000 for families.

Mozambique has temporarily suspended its newly introduced mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for citizens of 29 visa-exempt countries due to technical problems with the registration system. Launched in early May 2025, the ETA was designed to notify authorities 48 hours before arrival to improve travel flow management and border security. However, glitches preventing travelers from submitting their data correctly prompted the National Immigration Service (SENAMI) to pause the policy starting May 16, 2025. Until system improvements are made, travelers from the affected countries can enter Mozambique without the ETA.

Sudan’s army-aligned government has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of deporting most of its consular staff from Dubai without explanation, nearly two weeks after Sudan severed diplomatic ties with the Gulf nation. Sudan alleges that the diplomats were detained for eight hours, interrogated, and had their devices searched—actions it condemned as violations of international diplomatic norms. This incident follows escalating tensions after drone strikes in early May 2025 targeted Port Sudan, with Khartoum accusing the UAE of arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudan’s adversary in the ongoing civil conflict. The UAE denies these allegations, despite claims from international observers. Now in its third year, the conflict in Sudan has caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced approximately 13 million people, creating one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for Egypt with stricter entry requirements. Travelers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their arrival date and contain at least one blank page. Entry will be refused if passports are reported lost or stolen, or otherwise deemed invalid. Visitors staying fewer than 15 days in the resort areas of Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba do not require a visa. The FCDO also warns that travelers may be denied entry if their gender expression or physical appearance does not align with the sex marker or photograph in their passport.

People/Appointment.

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Capt. Festus Keyamo, has been appointed Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the West Africa Banjul Accord Group (BAG) States during the 4th Meeting of the BAG Council held in Abuja. The Council comprises transport and aviation ministers from Nigeria, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. As Chairman, Keyamo will spearhead initiatives to strengthen regional cooperation, harmonize aviation policies, and promote air transport safety and development across the BAG region.

Krimson Aviation CEO Dawit Lemma has been named Chair of the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA), with Craig Middleton appointed as Vice Chair following the departure of Alcinda Pereira. The new leadership aims to revitalize AfBAA by refining strategic plans, establishing a governance committee, and reinstating a professional secretariat to improve accountability and streamline core processes. AfBAA will also update its mission and vision, reinforce relationships with civil aviation authorities across 40 countries, and better represent the diverse spectrum of African business aviation operators. Membership, which declined from 150 to 50 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is a key focus area for Lemma, who advocates for greater inclusivity and affordability.

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) has promoted Fabrice Roger to Executive Vice President of Business Development for Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), and Asia-Pacific (APAC). Roger, who joined JSSI in 2022 after a decade with Jetcraft, will be based in Dubai—an important strategic hub for his regions. He will oversee all JSSI operations outside the Americas, with a goal to increase the EMEA/APAC business share from 35% to 50%. To better serve clients and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) partners, the company is relocating its Dubai office from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport.

Michael Joseph, a distinguished Kenyan business leader and founding CEO of Safaricom PLC, will retire as Board Chairman of Kenya Airways after an eight-year tenure, having reached the maximum term allowed by the Board Charter. His retirement will be formalized at the airline’s 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 13, 2025. Joseph is widely celebrated for pioneering the mobile money platform M-PESA Africa, which revolutionized financial inclusion across Africa. At the same AGM, Raphael Otieno, representing the Cabinet Secretary to the National Treasury, will retire but has offered himself for re-election. Shareholders will vote on board vacancies and the re-election of Audit and Risk Committee members, all of whom seek another term. The Board has also proposed appointing PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as external auditors for the upcoming financial year, subject to shareholder approval.

Awards, Recognition, Certifications & Milestones.

EGYPTAIR Maintenance and Engineering has successfully passed the EASA – European Union Aviation Safety Agency audit for the 20th consecutive year, reaffirming its adherence to international aviation safety standards. The audit involved a comprehensive inspection of maintenance operations, including quality assurance, safety protocols, hangars, engine overhaul, and component workshops. EgyptAir Holding Chairman Capt. Ahmed Adel and Maintenance CEO Eng. Ibrahim Fathy credited the achievement to the professionalism and technical expertise of the staff. The EASA team praised the company’s regulatory compliance and operational excellence, further solidifying EgyptAir Maintenance’s reputation in the global aviation maintenance market.

Lawsuits.

Boeing has petitioned a U.S. federal court to dismiss a motion filed by the estate of the now-defunct South African airline Comair, which seeks sanctions related to the alleged deletion of a “letter of comfort” concerning a disputed Boeing 737 MAX aircraft purchase. Comair’s estate claims the letter, purportedly from a Boeing employee, guaranteed that deposits for seven undelivered aircraft were refundable. Boeing denies the letter’s existence and maintains that any document deletions followed routine procedures, as no litigation was anticipated when the involved employees left the company in 2015 and 2018. The case, initiated in February 2023, involves Comair seeking $83 million in damages, alleging fraud and breach of contract. Boeing asserts that the sanctions request is an attempt to distract from the weaknesses in Comair’s fraud claims.

Air Sénégal S.A’s procurement of Let L-410NG aircraft has recently come under political scrutiny. The airline ordered five units from Czech manufacturer Aircraft Industries, a.s., with the first two delivered in March 2024. However, two of these aircraft remain grounded for maintenance, while delivery of the remaining three units is still pending. This acquisition is part of a broader government initiative to improve domestic connectivity in Senegal, aligning with national infrastructure development goals. The aircraft are intended to serve regional routes and complement the operations of the Senegalese Air Force. The political concerns likely relate to the procurement process, public fund allocation, and the strategic direction of Air Sénégal. Given the airline’s ongoing financial challenges, including disputes with aircraft lessors and the grounding of leased planes earlier this year, this procurement adds another layer of complexity to Air Sénégal’s operational landscape.

Aviation Accidents/Incidences.

On Sunday, May 18, 2025, at approximately 15:15 local time, a privately operated Rans S-10 Sakota aircraft (registration ZU-WXE, MSN 0491130) crashed at Middelburg Airfield (FAMB) in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The accident resulted in the deaths of both occupants on board, with no other fatalities reported. The aircraft, a light, aerobatic two-seater, was completely destroyed by fire following the crash.

On Sunday, 18 May 2025, an Egyptian Air Force aircraft crashed into the sea near Ras El-Bar, Damietta, during a routine training flight. Both pilots on board were killed, and the aircraft was completely destroyed. The specific type of aircraft and other operational details remain unconfirmed, with information sourced from news and social media reports.

On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, a privately operated Cessna 177 Cardinal experienced engine trouble while en route and was forced to make an emergency landing in a farm field near Normandien, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Fortunately, both occupants escaped uninjured. The extent of damage to the aircraft is currently unknown, and available details are based on unofficial sources such as news and social media.

On Friday, 23 May 2025, at around 17:28 local time, a Diamond DA42 Twin Star (registration 5N-BNI), operated by the International Aviation College (IAC), crashed during a simulated instrument approach at Ilorin Airport (ILR/DNIL) in Kwara, Nigeria. The aircraft veered off runway 05 and flipped over during landing. Both the instructor and student pilot sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft suffered substantial damage. The flight was a training exercise, departing from and returning to the same airport.

On Saturday, 24 May 2025, an AFRIQIYAH AIRWAYS Airbus A330-302 (registration 5A-ONQ), operating Hajj flight 8U1542, veered off the side of runway 10 at Bayda-Al Abraq International Airport (LAQ/HLLQ) in Libya while backtracking for departure to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The aircraft became stuck with all its landing gears off the paved surface. There were no injuries or fatalities, and the aircraft sustained no damage. The incident occurred during taxiing

In other news:

Entebbe International Airport conducted a full-scale emergency exercise simulating an aircraft crash scenario adjacent to runway 12/30. The two-hour drill involved an East Sky Airlines Embraer 190, carrying 95 passengers and 5 crew, crashing near the airport perimeter and catching fire. Over 600 participants from 50 agencies—including firefighters, medical teams, security personnel, and airport stakeholders—took part in the exercise. The simulation assumed 25 fatalities, 13 injured survivors, and 62 uninjured evacuees, with critically injured victims rushed to hospitals in Entebbe and Kampala to test emergency medical response capabilities.

In celebration of Africa Day, Cairo International Airport launched new sustainable travel routes designed to ease entry for citizens of African Union member states. A high-level delegation from nine African countries, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Zambia, visited the airport alongside Egyptian government officials to strengthen diplomatic ties and enhance travel cooperation. The delegates toured airport facilities and engaged in discussions focused on streamlining travel procedures. As a result, Cairo International Airport announced the establishment of a dedicated passport control corridor exclusively for African travelers. This initiative underscores Egypt’s commitment to advancing regional integration, mobility, and collaboration in aviation and border management across Africa.