Introduction. Airbus subsidiary AALTO has successfully launched its first stratospheric flight using the Zephyr air vehicle from its new AALTOPORT base in Laikipia County, Kenya. The solar-powered, ultra-long-endurance aircraft climbed to 60,000ft on 20 January, achieving an undisclosed flight duration. Zephyr remains the only fixed-wing HAPS to demonstrate sustained day-and-night

Introduction. Alkebulan Airlines, based in Zambia and founded in 2022, is on track to commence operations in January 2025 as it nears the final stages of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process. According to CEO Charles Tembo, the airline’s fleet will feature Embraer E145s and Boeing 737s. Currently in phase

Introduction. The Somaliland government is moving forward with plans to reclaim control over its airspace, a significant development that could escalate tensions with Somalia. The airspace, currently managed by the Somali government, was previously under international oversight before being transferred several years ago. Fuad Ahmed Nuuh, Somaliland’s Minister of Aviation

Introduction. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced a major update to its IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) program. Starting in 2025, IOSA renewal audits will adopt a risk-based methodology, shifting to more tailored and focused evaluations of airlines’ operational safety. This approach aims to enhance safety oversight by

Introduction. African airlines face a significant challenge as the European Union rolls out the world’s first mandatory shift to sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) for the air transport industry. Approved by the European Parliament and EU Council in April 2023, the regulation mandates that fuel suppliers at EU airports blend SAF

Introduction. The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) has imposed significant fines on Ethiopian Airlines (ET) and Etihad Airways (EY) for operating flights in restricted airspace using other airlines’ designator codes. Ethiopian Airlines received a $425,000 penalty for conducting flights between Ethiopia and Djibouti with United Airlines‘ (UA) code, violating U.S.

Introduction. On December 7, 2024, the global aviation community commemorated the 80th anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, also known as the Chicago Convention, in the United States. This landmark agreement has been the cornerstone of the international civil aviation system, facilitating its evolution over

Introduction. The African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC convened its 35th Ordinary Plenary Session and held the 25th celebration of the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD), in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, from September 25 to 29, 2024. This key event brought together high-profile participants, including the International Civil Aviation Organization Secretary-General, leaders of