Introduction.

The 10th Edition of AFI Aviation Week, held from 26 to 30 May 2025 at the Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, brought together aviation leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from the Africa-Indian Ocean (AFI) region under the organization of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The event featured key components such as the Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Meeting, which reviewed aviation performance and capacity-building priorities, and a three-day AFI Aviation Symposium that aligned regional discussions with ICAO’s 2026–2050 Strategic Plan. Steering Committees for the AFI Plan and AFI SECFAL Plan also convened to assess implementation reports and future work programs, while the closing plenary summarized key outcomes and guided future regional aviation actions.

AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Spain’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee approved a proposal to block the transfer of airspace control over Western Sahara to Morocco, ensuring it remains under Spain’s ENAIRE agency, which has managed it since 1976 in accordance with ICAO regulations. The People’s Party advocated for transparency and parliamentary oversight of ongoing negotiations, warning that any handover without ICAO approval would violate international law and could be interpreted as de facto recognition of Moroccan sovereignty—a move likely to spark diplomatic tensions with the European Union. Both the European Commission and the Court of Justice of the European Union have previously ruled that EU-Morocco aviation agreements do not extend to Western Sahara, reinforcing the region’s status under international law as a non-self-governing territory. Currently, there is no legal framework governing commercial air services between the EU and Western Sahara, often referred to as Africa’s last colony.

In Nigeria, the Federal Government has lifted a temporary suspension on helicopter landing charges for air navigation services tied to oil company operations in the Gulf of Guinea. With this move, Naebi Dynamic Concepts Ltd, the appointed consultant, is authorized to resume billing oil companies directly. However, helicopters operated by members of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) remain exempt from these charges. The suspension, originally implemented in June 2024 by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo in response to AON’s concerns, has now been officially lifted.

African Aviation: Projections and Statistics.

According to International Air Transport Association (IATA), Africa’s air passenger demand surged by 14.2% year-on-year in April 2025, significantly outpacing the global average growth of 8%. The continent’s available seat capacity increased by 10.3%, while the passenger load factor (PLF) rose by 2.6 percentage points to 76.3%, signaling a strong rebound after two consecutive months of decline. This resurgence reflects growing travel demand across Africa, driven in part by expanding international Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPKs). Although Africa accounts for just 2.2% of global passenger traffic, it recorded one of the highest growth rates worldwide, underscoring the region’s rising significance in global aviation.

In the cargo segment, African airlines reported a 4.7% year-on-year increase in air freight demand, measured in Cargo Tonne Kilometers (CTKs), slightly below the global average of 5.8%. However, the continent saw a robust 9.7% rise in cargo capacity, outpacing the global growth rate of 6.3%. Despite this expansion, Africa’s cargo load factor fell by 2 percentage points to 41.6%, suggesting some underutilization of available capacity. While Africa represents only 2.0% of the global air cargo market, the steady increase in volumes—despite challenges on certain trade lanes like Africa-Asia—reflects growing integration into global freight networks and rising intra-regional demand.

As of April 2025, global airlines face $1.3 billion in blocked funds, a notable 25% improvement from $1.7 billion in October 2024. IATA continues to urge governments to remove barriers to the timely repatriation of airline revenues, which is critical for covering dollar-denominated expenses and sustaining operations. Ten countries account for 80% of the total blocked funds ($1.03 billion), with Mozambique ($205 million), the XAF Zone ($191 million), and Algeria ($178 million) leading the list. Countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh have made significant progress in clearing their arrears. The Africa and Middle East region alone accounts for 85% of total blocked funds, highlighting persistent financial constraints for airlines operating in these markets.

Zanzibar’s aviation sector has seen remarkable growth over the past three years, with airport revenues rising from TZS 18 billion (approx. USD 6.9 million) to TZS 50 billion (approx. USD 19.2 million). Passenger traffic increased by 23% year-on-year, reaching 2.4 million in 2024, up from 1.9 million in 2023, and is projected to exceed 2.7 million by the end of 2025. The Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) attributes this performance to enhanced airport operations, improved service delivery, and the return of international carriers like Air France, which resumed flights in May 2025 after a temporary seasonal suspension. Strengthening its position as a regional hub, Zanzibar will host the 2025 AviaDev Africa conference in June, expected to attract over 500 participants and 50 global aviation organizations, including airlines, manufacturers, service providers, and tourism stakeholders.

In 2024, Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport (SOGEAC) in Guinea Conakry handled 788,879 passengers, representing a 6.7% year-on-year increase. Notably, domestic traffic rose sharply by 41%, from 20,956 to 29,552 passengers, driven in part by the Simandou 2024 mega mining project. Regional air traffic within Africa grew by nearly 10%, with Addis Ababa and Casablanca serving as key connecting hubs. The airport also saw a 9.4% increase in air freight, reaching 5,012 tonnes, as infrastructure and operational improvements continued across the facility.

Also in 2024, Kenya Airways (KQ) reported KSh 4.6 billion in revenue from expired tickets, up 9.4% from KSh 4.26 billion in 2023. These revenues result from passengers who book flights but fail to travel within the airline’s 13-month ticket validity period. While these tickets are initially recorded as current liabilities, they are recognized as revenue once they expire or are used. KQ emphasized it cannot afford to relax its ticket policies, as unused bookings incur operational costs and represent lost revenue opportunities. The airline offers refunds or rebookings under certain conditions, such as illness or death, but maintains a strict refund policy.

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

On May 28, 2025, Zambia and Eswatini signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) during the 10th Africa Indian Ocean Aviation Week in Victoria Falls, paving the way for direct commercial flights between the two nations. The agreement supports the broader goals of air transport liberalization under the African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC and the African Union’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative. Eswatini is preparing to launch its first direct flight to Zambia in September 2025. This milestone underscores a shared commitment to improving regional connectivity, facilitating trade, and advancing Africa’s aviation ecosystem through collaboration.

On May 26, President Paul Kagame’s cabinet ratified bilateral air service agreements between Rwanda and 12 countries: Eswatini, Guinea, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Zimbabwe, Georgia, France, Poland, Oman, Suriname, and Canada. These agreements aim to boost international air transport, fostering travel, trade, and tourism. The cabinet also approved a data-sharing policy to enhance secure public sector information exchange, reviewed reports on human rights treaty implementation, and passed a ministerial order on child guardianship and intercountry adoption.

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, met with Venezuelan Ambassador Alberto Castellar Padilla to discuss establishing direct air links between the two countries. Venezuela’s national carrier, conviasa, is ready to commence operations and seeks Nigerian government support to launch the route. The initiative aims to enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. A joint technical committee has been formed to expedite regulatory approvals, reflecting Nigeria’s broader strategy to expand international air connectivity and position itself as a regional aviation hub.

Guinea and the United States have initiated talks to establish a direct air link between Conakry and the U.S., following a high-level meeting between Mory Camara, Director General of Conakry Airport, and Anne Dudte Johnson, Chargée d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy. The proposal aligns with Guinea’s efforts to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties amid the ongoing expansion of Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport.

On May 27, 2025, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) signed a Management Services Agreement during the AFI Aviation Symposium in Zimbabwe. The agreement will establish a dedicated department within UCAA to assess training needs and develop a long-term plan, including a new National Air Navigation Plan to guide Uganda’s air navigation services for the next 15 years. The partnership gives UCAA access to ICAO’s technical expertise, project management, and tailored training to align with global standards.

On the same day, the immigration service department tanzania and the TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA) signed a landmark agreement in Dodoma to digitize the exchange of air passenger data. This initiative replaces outdated manual processes, in line with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive for integrated government systems. The new system allows real-time access to verified passenger data, enhancing border security, operational efficiency, and revenue collection. TCAA is also rolling out a centralized data system to capture passenger information from all airports, strengthening aviation oversight and supporting the country’s digital transformation goals.

Emirates and Air Mauritius renewed their longstanding partnership through a new Memorandum of Understanding signed in Mauritius. Building on their cooperation since 2003, the agreement includes reciprocal codesharing on select routes, frequent flyer program integration, and cargo handling collaboration. Air Mauritius will place its code on Emirates flights to destinations such as Cairo, Colombo, Karachi, Dammam, Jeddah, and Riyadh, while Emirates will codeshare on the Mauritius–Antananarivo route. Air Mauritius also sells seats on Emirates’ broader network on an interline basis. Since launching operations to Mauritius in 2002, Emirates has transported over 8.8 million passengers and 126,000 tonnes of cargo, contributing approximately USD 900 million annually to the Mauritian economy and supporting around 3,600 jobs.

On May 25, 2025, Nigeria launched the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The initiative, in partnership with Uganda Airlines and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to reduce air freight costs by up to 75% and improve exports under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. The corridor connects Nigeria with key African markets—including Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa—facilitating the export of textiles, cosmetics, and agro-processed goods.

Jambojet, in collaboration with ABOMIS | a simpler way, is testing a proof of concept for smart box technology—a portable check-in solution that converts into a self-tagging station and serves as a backup during system outages or disruptions. Currently in early testing, this initiative aligns with Jambojet’s “More Than A Journey” philosophy, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and enhancing the passenger experience through seamless and efficient service.

ASKY AIRLINES Kenya has partnered with the Forum For African Women Educationalists – Kenya Chapter to promote women’s participation in Africa’s aviation industry, as part of ASKY’s 15th anniversary legacy projects. Women currently make up just 4.1% of pilots and fewer than 3% of maintenance engineers in Africa. This initiative focuses on gender inclusion, mentorship, policy advocacy, and capacity building. It aims to connect STEM students with female aviation role models, push for inclusive policies, expand access to technical education, and create more opportunities through partnerships with industry stakeholders.

Routes and Airline Connectivity.

On May 23, United Airlines inaugurated nonstop service between Washington D.C. (Dulles International Airport) and Dakar, Senegal. Operating three times a week year-round, the route marks United’s debut in Senegal and establishes the only direct connection between Washington and Dakar. Flights depart Dulles on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, returning from Dakar on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. The service is operated by a Boeing 767-300 featuring business, premium economy, and economy cabins. This addition strengthens United’s African network, which also includes Morocco, South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria.

After a six-year hiatus, Air Seychelles resumed commercial operations to the Middle East with a six-weekly direct service to Abu Dhabi, UAE. The inaugural flight, HM19, landed on May 24 with 157 passengers aboard an Airbus Aircraft A320. This strategic route supports Seychelles’ Strategic Plan 2023–2027, aiming to diversify inbound tourism markets, enhance air access, and promote sustainable travel. The renewed connection is expected to boost tourism, trade, and diplomatic relations with the UAE.

Air France has reinstated its Paris–Zanzibar service following a seasonal suspension. On May 27, an Air France flight landed at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA) with 248 passengers. Of these, 125 disembarked in Zanzibar, while 123 boarded earlier in Kilimanjaro. The airline now operates three weekly flights to Zanzibar—on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The route had been temporarily suspended from March 22 to May 25, 2025, due to the “green season.” KLM Royal Dutch Airlines similarly paused its Amsterdam–Zanzibar route for the IATA summer season, with plans to resume in the winter schedule.

Air Botswana has officially deployed its 88-seat Embraer E175, named Kalahari, into regular operations after months of regulatory delays and technical issues, including a defective temperature probe detected in Kenya. Delivered in August 2024, the jet began scheduled service on May 25, 2025, flying key regional routes including Lusaka, Cape Town, Durban, Harare, and Windhoek.

Nigeria’s Air Peace Limited will commence scheduled flights between Lagos and Antigua and Barbuda in Q4 2025, strengthening Africa–Caribbean air links. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Gaston Browne during a parliamentary session discussing air service expansion. Air Peace previously supported LIAT operations and seasonal charters, and the upcoming route is expected to drive tourism, trade, and investment. Talks are also underway for partnerships with Ghana and other West African countries to further enhance regional connectivity.

Starting June 10, AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED will introduce a new twice-weekly service between Johannesburg and Zanzibar, operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The outbound flight includes a stop in Dar es Salaam, while the return leg routes via Dar as well. This expansion complements the airline’s Johannesburg–Dar route and reinforces its strategy to link East Africa’s leisure destinations with southern African markets.

World Aviation Group has launched an exclusive luxury helicopter service connecting northern Morocco with Málaga, Spain, cutting travel time across the Strait of Gibraltar. Targeting high-net-worth tourists and business travelers, the new route enhances cross-border luxury travel between Andalusia and the Maghreb. The state-of-the-art helicopters are expected to significantly boost premium tourism and cross-Mediterranean commerce.

Icelandic low-cost carrier PLAY airlines has begun ticket sales for a new seasonal route between Keflavík and Agadir, Morocco. Launching December 19, 2025, the route will operate weekly on Fridays through mid-April 2026. Agadir joins PLAY’s winter sun portfolio, which includes destinations in Spain, Portugal, Croatia, and Turkey. The route complements PLAY’s existing Marrakesh service and positions Agadir as a key North African destination for Icelandic travelers.

Kenya’s Astral Aviation Ltd made history on May 27, 2025, as the first Kenyan-registered and operated aircraft to land in Australia. The freighter flight, arriving in Brisbane from Hong Kong, underscores Astral’s growing international reach. Operating a fleet that includes Boeing 747s and 767s, Astral serves over 50 global destinations and has been named African All-Cargo Carrier of the Year for 11 consecutive years. The airline is recognized for its work in humanitarian aid, vaccine logistics, and wildlife conservation.

Airline Fleets and ACMI’s.

Royal Air Maroc has taken delivery of a brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered CN-RHC. The aircraft was ferried from Boeing Field (King County International Airport) in Seattle to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, with a technical stop at Gander International Airport in Canada, between May 30 and 31, 2025. Configured with 12 business class and 144 economy class seats, the aircraft will support the airline’s fleet renewal strategy and growing regional operations.

On May 23, EGYPTAIR signed an agreement with Airbus for the purchase of ten A350-900 aircraft, marking a key milestone in its fleet modernization and sustainability efforts. The deal was announced during Minister Sameh El-Hefny’s visit to Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France. Each aircraft will seat up to 340 passengers and offer 25% improved fuel efficiency, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. The new jets will also feature state-of-the-art inflight entertainment systems. With this acquisition, EgyptAir continues to expand its 70-aircraft fleet while aligning with national goals to modernize civil aviation and position Egypt as a regional aviation hub.

The Tanzanian government has announced the acquisition of a high-tech aircraft worth TZS 6 billion (approximately USD 2.3 million) to strengthen agricultural productivity. Designed for precision pest control and aerial spraying, the aircraft will be deployed to modernize farming practices and improve food security. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it is expected to help combat crop diseases and pests, significantly enhancing yields in the country’s vital agricultural sector.

On May 28, 2025, Uganda’s Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC–Central) raised concerns over the underutilization of a police aircraft—the P180 Avanti II EVO—purchased in 2019 for UGX 29 billion (approximately USD 7.6 million). Auditor General Edward Akol revealed that the aircraft has flown only 117 kilometers since delivery, despite ongoing maintenance and insurance costs. Lawmakers criticized the procurement, citing its incompatibility with Uganda’s predominantly unpaved airstrips. Permanent Secretary Dr. Aggrey Wunyi defended the acquisition, stating it was based on evaluations at the time, and confirmed ongoing efforts to operationalize the aircraft. In 2024, police had already considered selling the aircraft due to its high costs and limited utility.

Air Zimbabwe Private Limited has announced plans to sell two Boeing 777-200ER aircraft acquired from Malaysia as part of a broader effort to ease persistent financial challenges. The Zimbabwean government has invited qualified international bidders to submit offers by July 25, 2025, for the aircraft, currently parked at Harare’s Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and offered in “as-is” condition. Once a regional powerhouse, Air Zimbabwe has struggled under the weight of over USD 30 million in foreign debt, operational mismanagement, and the absence of a strategic partner despite restructuring efforts since 2018. The planned sale reflects ongoing efforts to streamline operations and sustain the national carrier’s future viability.

Aviation Infrastructure, Financing & Profitability.

Air Côte d’Ivoire has secured a loan of approximately $76.6 million (47.91 billion CFA francs) from the BADEA – Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa to finance the acquisition of two Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. The agreement was ratified by the Ivorian government on May 21, 2025, during a session at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan.The A330-900neo aircraft, part of Airbus’s new generation of widebody jets, offer a range of up to 7,200 nautical miles (13,300 kilometers) and incorporate advanced technologies for improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Each aircraft will be configured to accommodate 242 passengers across four classes: 4 in First Class, 44 in Business Class, 21 in Premium Economy, and 173 in Economy.

Jambojet, a Kenyan low-cost airline and subsidiary of Kenya Airways, has secured a KSh1.7 billion ($13 million) loan from NCBA BANK to support its aircraft leasing and maintenance operations. The four-year loan, guaranteed by Kenya Airways, aims to enhance Jambojet’s fleet reliability and operational efficiency. This funding is expected to bolster the airline’s capacity to meet growing demand for domestic and regional air travel, aligning with its strategic goals for expansion and service improvement.

Ebrima Sillah, Gambia’s Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, clarified that the government is not selling Banjul International Airport but plans to concession it to a capable operator to run it efficiently without losses. He explained that the government is working to decouple the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which currently both regulates and operates the airport, into separate entities. This will allow the GCAA to focus solely on safety and regulation, while the newly formed Gambia Airport Management Company will handle airport operations and seek partnerships with international players. The plan aims to improve airport efficiency, boost all-year-round tourism, and make The Gambia a tourism hub. Cabinet approval and National Assembly legislation are expected soon to implement this restructuring.

The African Development Bank Group is rehabilitating Mbuji-Mayi Airport in the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of its Priority Air Safety Project Phase 2, aiming to enhance safety and regional connectivity. The upgrades include runway and taxiway improvements, installation of advanced navigation systems (ILS/DME, DVOR/DME), and construction of critical infrastructure like a new control tower and fire station. China Jiangxi International is executing the works, with project funding of around USD 121 million. Initially expected to be completed by February 2025, the airport is now set to handle large aircraft by September 2025, boosting economic activity and air access in the Kasai-Oriental region.

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is relocating its headquarters from Midrand to a new facility at Byls Bridge Boulevard Office Park in Centurion, effective June 1, 2025. This move addresses the limitations of the current office space and aims to enhance operational efficiency. The new location offers improved health and safety standards, environmental sustainability, and better accessibility via major highways, consolidating all services into one location for streamlined operations. As part of this transition, SACAA is also undergoing a rebranding process, including the introduction of a new logo in June 2025. All official documentation issued after the launch will feature the updated branding, while existing documents remain valid until their expiry dates

On May 23, 2025, Emirates inaugurated a new travel store in Port Louis, Mauritius, with Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim officiating the opening. The store aims to enhance the airline’s long-standing relationship with Mauritius, where Emirates has operated since 2002, by offering immersive technological experiences, in-flight product demonstrations, and personalized customer assistance. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the ceremony to further boost tourism collaboration between Emirates and Mauritius. The store is located at The Docks 2, United Docks Business Park, Caudan, Port Louis.

Flemingo Duty Free Shop Pvt. Ltd. has secured a seven-year exclusive concession (extendable by another seven) to operate 17 duty-free, retail, and F&B outlets across four international airports in Cape Verde: Sal, Praia, Boa Vista, and São Vicente. The 3,000sqm space will include core duty-free categories, convenience stores, and a unique “Marketplace” concept celebrating local culture. This marks a significant expansion of Flemingo’s decade-long presence in Cape Verde. The company aims to enhance the passenger experience while supporting Cape Verde’s Tourism Vision 2030 in partnership with Vinci Airports. Flemingo Duty Free’s new concession in Cape Verde is set to commence in the third quarter (Q3) of the year.

VISA/Passports/Travel.

On May 26, 2025, Ghana temporarily closed its embassy in Washington, D.C., after discovering a five-year visa and passport fraud scheme involving a staff member who redirected applicants to his private company and charged unauthorized fees. The embassy staff were recalled, and the IT department was dissolved for a full systems overhaul. The case was referred to the Attorney General for prosecution. The embassy reopened on May 29, 2025, with strengthened integrity measures, a team of experienced diplomats, and a revamped IT system. The government emphasized its zero-tolerance policy on corruption and its commitment to transparency, aiming to restore public trust and protect Ghana’s international reputation.

Kenya has officially gazetted new immigration rules under the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, exempting a wide range of individuals from the requirement to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to entry. Announced by Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen on May 30, the new Regulation 15G outlines 34 exempt categories, including holders of Kenyan permanent residence, valid work permits, and re-entry passes, as well as citizens of East African Community (EAC) states for visits up to 180 days. Nationals from over 40 countries including South Africa, Ghana, Malaysia, and Barbados are granted visa-free access for up to 90 days, while countries such as Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia enjoy exemptions for up to 60 days. The regulation also waives the eTA requirement for transit passengers who remain within the airport or seaport, international flight and ship crew, and private aircraft owners refueling in Kenya. Additionally, officials from organizations like the United Nations, AU, The World Bank, COMESA Secretariat, IGAD, and others holding official laissez-passers are exempt, alongside holders of diplomatic or service passports from countries such as India, China, Brazil, Turkey, and Iran, depending on stay duration. British military personnel serving in Kenya are also included, with the new policy aimed at enhancing travel convenience, boosting tourism, and strengthening diplomatic and regional ties.

Kenya has blocked Somaliland’s attempt to upgrade its Nairobi liaison office to diplomatic status, halting a planned launch event on May 27, 2025, during a visit by Somaliland President Abdirahman Abdullahi. Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs stated it had not authorized the event, reaffirming its recognition of the Federal Government of Somalia as the sole legitimate authority over all Somali territories, including Somaliland. While Kenya expressed willingness to maintain practical working relationships with Somaliland and other regional entities like Jubaland, it emphasized that such engagements must be coordinated through Mogadishu.

Lesotho has announced a visa-free entry policy for all European Union (EU) citizens, unveiled during the Lesotho-EU Partnership Dialogue held in Maseru on May 14, 2025. This groundbreaking move is aimed at boosting tourism, enhancing international relations, and attracting foreign investment. While the exact start date is pending, the decision—endorsed by Prime Minister Sam Matekane’s Cabinet—marks a major shift in the kingdom’s travel and diplomatic strategy. Previously, only select EU countries had short-stay visa exemptions, but now all EU nationals will benefit, improving access to Lesotho’s unique adventure tourism and highland culture. The policy is expected to significantly elevate Lesotho’s global tourism profile and strengthen ties with Europe.

Namibia’s new visa-on-arrival system has generated N$100 million in revenue and facilitated entry for 70,000 visitors since launch, the Ministry of Home Affairs stated. The ministry emphasized the system is fully operational and efficient, citing an example where 243 passengers from a Frankfurt flight were processed in just 1 hour 15 minutes, averaging 19 seconds each. The revenue supports national development. Namibia officially launched its Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) system on March 3, 2025, with the policy taking effect on April 1, 2025. This initiative allows nationals from 33 countries—including the United States, United Kingdom, and several European nations—to obtain a visa upon arrival at designated entry points such as Hosea Kutako International Airport and Walvis Bay International Airport. The visa is valid for up to 90 days, with fees set at N$1,600 for non-African travelers and N$1,200 for African travelers.

People/Appointment.

Air Mauritius has confirmed the reappointment of Andre Viljoen as Chief Executive Officer, effective 15 October 2025, following an international search. His return comes at a critical juncture as the airline contends with ongoing financial challenges and seeks to reclaim its role as a leading regional and intercontinental carrier. Viljoen, who previously served as CEO from 2009 to 2015 following his tenure at South African Airways, is credited with spearheading operational reforms and guiding the airline through a recovery phase. His comeback signals a renewed strategic focus aimed at stabilising operations and strengthening Air Mauritius’ position as a vital air access hub bridging Africa and Asia.

Lawsuits.

The trial of Abu Agila Mas’ud Kheir Al-Marimi, accused of making the bomb that destroyed Pan Am flight 103 over Lockerbie in 1988, killing 270 people, is expected to be delayed until late April 2026. Originally scheduled to start this month in Washington, the trial was postponed due to Masud’s poor health and to allow more time for the defense to prepare. Masud, in his early 70s and a dual Libyan-Tunisian citizen, denies building the bomb. The case involves complex international evidence, and the court is considering early motions to suppress an alleged confession Masud made in 2012, where he reportedly admitted working for Libyan intelligence and named two accomplices linked to the bombing, the deadliest terror attack in UK history.

Spain’s Swiftair S.A. has again requested a French court to refer legal questions to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) regarding whether France has jurisdiction to prosecute the company over the 2014 crash of Air Algérie Flight AH5017. On July 24, 2014, an MD-83 aircraft owned by Swiftair, registered in Spain and chartered for a flight from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, to Algiers, crashed in northern Mali’s desert, killing all 116 people on board, including 54 French nationals. Earlier, on April 3, 2025, the CJEU issued a preliminary ruling dismissing a previous referral from the Paris Tribunal Judiciaire as inadmissible, but the Paris court still retains the option to submit a new request for a preliminary ruling. Swiftair’s renewed application reflects ongoing legal complexities about jurisdiction and accountability in this tragic aviation accident.

Aviation Accidents/Incidences.

A PassionAir domestic flight from Accra to Takoradi on May 31, 2025, was forced to return to Accra just 15 minutes after takeoff due to what passengers described as a shocking fuel shortage mid-air. Passengers initially received no explanation during the flight, but upon landing, they were informed the plane lacked enough fuel to reach Takoradi. The incident has raised serious safety concerns on social media, questioning the airline’s pre-flight fuel checks and protocols. Passion Air has yet to issue an official statement addressing the situation.

Flight operations at Liberia’s Roberts International Airport (RIA) resumed on Friday, May 30, following a temporary suspension caused by a tire blowout incident involving a Gulfstream IV private jet carrying President Joseph Boakai. The jet became disabled on the runway after landing from Nigeria on Thursday, halting all inbound and outbound flights. No injuries occurred, and emergency protocols were effectively executed. By Friday morning, normal operations had resumed, including departures by Royal Air Maroc and ASKY Airlines. Passengers commended the airport’s professional response and clear communication.

On Friday, 30 May 2025, a Chengdu F-7IIN fighter jet (registration 703), operated by the Air Force of Zimbabwe’s 5 Squadron, crashed and caught fire shortly after takeoff from Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base (formerly Gweru-Thornhill Air Base) near Gweru, in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. The aircraft was on a routine military flight when the incident occurred during the en route phase. Tragically, veteran pilot Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube was killed in the crash, and the aircraft was completely destroyed by fire. The flight originated and was scheduled to return to the same air base.

In other news:

The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) will endorse Aero South Africa 2025 and host a dedicated Safety and Training Workshop during the event on June 26, 2025, at Lanseria International Airport, Johannesburg. The full-day workshop aims to advance operational safety and professional training for African aviation operators, pilots, ground staff, and service providers through expert talks, panels, and interactive sessions. AfBAA Chairman Dawit Lemma emphasized the workshop’s role in promoting safety, growth, and sustainability in African aviation. AERO South Africa’s Show Director, Louise Olckers, highlighted the partnership as a key platform to meet the needs of aviation professionals across the continent.

On May 20, 2025, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) officially launched a six-month feasibility study in Ghana to explore the country’s potential for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production. This marks a major milestone in Ghana’s push toward a greener, low-carbon aviation future. The initiative is supported by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and coordinated with various government ministries, aiming to assess the viability of converting locally available feedstocks—including used cooking oil and organic waste—into SAF.