Africa Aviation Trails: Week 19, 2026

Introduction.

Tanzania’s government has proposed a Sh2.87 trillion (approximately US$1.1 billion) transport budget for the 2026/27 financial year, with aviation emerging as one of the sector’s biggest beneficiaries through major investments in airport infrastructure and the expansion of Air Tanzania. The plan includes Sh32 billion (about US$12.3 million) for rehabilitation works at Kilimanjaro International Airport, including runway upgrades, airfield lighting systems, and security infrastructure, while Julius Nyerere International Airport will receive Sh26.75 billion (around US$10.3 million) for terminal improvements, ICT systems, and runway safety enhancements. Mwanza and Arusha airports will also receive Sh6 billion (US$2.3 million) and Sh3.08 billion (US$1.2 million) respectively for expansion works. Meanwhile, Air Tanzania has been allocated Sh185.32 billion (approximately US$71 million) for aircraft acquisition, spare engines, and maintenance infrastructure, alongside another Sh97.73 billion (about US$37.5 million) to strengthen operations through new hangars, cargo facilities, and pilot training simulators. 

Conferences & Events

Ethiopian Airlines marked its 80th anniversary with a Global Cultural Day and static airshow held at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, bringing together government officials, diplomats, and aviation stakeholders to celebrate the airline’s long-standing role in global connectivity. The carrier reported that it now transports more than 21 million passengers annually and operates a fleet of 147 aircraft serving 140 destinations across over 80 countries on five continents, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s largest airlines. CEO Mesfin Tasew also confirmed that Ethiopian Airlines has placed orders for more than 100 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, to be delivered between now and 2031, as part of its expansion and fleet modernization strategy. The anniversary celebrations featured a static airshow showcasing various aircraft types in its current fleet, underscoring the airline’s growth trajectory and continued investment in capacity, network expansion, and operational modernization.

Aviation Projections and Statistics.