(Posted 10th June 2025)

’s study “Fueling Africa’s Flight”, released on June 4, 2025, highlights ’s potential to become a leader in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production, focusing on and . By leveraging local feedstocks such as agricultural residues and waste oils, these countries can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower aviation emissions. The report stresses the need for targeted investments and policy innovation to overcome the higher cost of SAF, known as the green premium, through government support, public-private partnerships, and regulatory incentives. This study positions Africa as a key player in global aviation decarbonization while fostering economic growth.

On June 4, 2025, Nigerian business aviation company was awarded its Air Operating Certificate (AOC) by the (NCAA), granting commercial rights across 34 African countries that have ratified the Yamoussoukro Decision—an essential milestone toward the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Since its founding two years ago, VivaJets has rapidly expanded its fleet and international routes, championing free and accessible air travel across Africa.

Meanwhile, is preparing for a comeback after four years grounded, targeting a December 2025 relaunch pending an investment deal led by the Ubuntu Aviation Consortium. Passengers with unused tickets before July 2021 may receive vouchers or be treated as creditors. The airline’s 737-800 fleet is undergoing refurbishment, and it is working to secure a new AOC. Plans include restoring popular routes like Johannesburg–Cape Town and expanding to underserved towns, potentially lowering domestic fares. A recent court ruling and ZAR 326 million in funding clear the path for Mango’s return, which could reshape ’s low-cost travel market.

(AWS) earned certification from the NCAA to operate ARCO Aviation Academy (AAA), ’s first NCAA-approved drone pilot training organization. With over 9,500 Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight hours logged, AWS aims to foster a sustainable drone ecosystem and expand training facilities in Lagos and Abuja. Managing Director Engr. emphasized that AAA will reduce dependence on costly overseas training, addressing foreign exchange and visa hurdles.

On June 3, 2025, the added all Tanzanian airlines to its no-fly list, citing serious aviation safety oversight deficiencies. This follows the 2024 ban on and highlights regulatory capacity shortfalls, personnel shortages, and safety issues in flight operations and airworthiness. joins 10 other African countries with 54 airlines banned, including carriers from (except two), and . The EU, guided by and standards, calls for reforms and offers assistance to restore compliance.

In , the Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and (GACL) extended operational hours at Prempeh I International Airport (PIA) to 11 pm and Tamale International Airport (TIA) to 10 pm. This supports better connectivity for late flights arriving from Kotoka International Airport, particularly from the and , reducing overnight stays in Accra. The extension aligns with the government’s 24-hour economy initiative to boost economic activity and benefit local communities and airport concessionaires. Domestic airlines are encouraged to increase flight frequencies, with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued to inform operators.

According to , African airlines are projected to remain the least profitable worldwide in 2025, generating just $200 million with a slim 1.1% profit margin. Structural challenges such as limited infrastructure and economic instability continue to weigh heavily on the region’s carriers. Although passenger demand in Africa is expected to grow by 8%, capacity expansion will lag at 7.3%, hindered by fleet constraints and currency volatility. Declining global airfares further compress margins, with African airlines earning a mere $1.30 profit per passenger. Meanwhile, a slowdown in the global air cargo market, combined with Africa’s limited cargo integration, restricts airlines’ ability to diversify revenue streams.

IATA highlights that African carriers face significantly higher operating costs than the global average. Fuel expenses are 17% above average, constituting 40% of operating costs compared to 25% globally. Taxes, fees, and air navigation charges are respectively 12-15% and 10% higher, while maintenance, insurance, and capital costs are elevated by 6-10%. Africa accounts for just 2–3% of global air traffic, with intra-African flights representing only 20% of total operations. Over 75% of international travelers to and from Africa fly on non-African carriers, underscoring the competitive challenges faced by local airlines. Additionally, approximately $1.28 billion in airline funds remains blocked—mainly acrossand the —further straining liquidity. Addressing heavy taxation and improving regional integration are vital for sustainable growth.

also operates the world’s oldest aircraft fleet, averaging 19 years of age, and represents a mere 2% of all new aircraft orders globally. By contrast, boasts the youngest fleet at an average age of 12 years and commands 49% of worldwide aircraft orders. The global average fleet age stands at 14 years. Disruptions in the maintenance supply chain have forced airlines to retain older aircraft longer, driving up lease rates and complicating fleet renewal strategies. Narrow-body aircraft dominate global order books and will account for the majority of seat capacity, reflecting evolving travel preferences. African carriers remain among the highest-risk globally due to a complex mix of financial pressures, foreign exchange volatility, geopolitical instability, and inadequate infrastructure.

and have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) to strengthen regional air connectivity, trade, and tourism. The agreement, signed during Week in Victoria Falls, grants designated airlines full third, fourth, and fifth freedom rights on scheduled flights and provides cargo carriers with broader seventh freedom rights. This deal aligns with the ’s Agenda 2063, promoting integrated transport, fair competition, unrestricted frequencies, and market-based fares. It also formalizes ’ current operations in and paves the way for expanded services. Additionally, Zimbabwe signed a Management Service Agreement with ICAO to reinforce aviation standards.

On Friday, June 6, 2025, and transport ministers convened in Rabat to deepen aviation cooperation, focusing on boosting air connectivity and fostering academic exchange in aviation training. Moroccan Transport Minister Abdessamad Kayouh emphasized plans to expand air links, especially between Casablanca and Accra, and welcomed ’s interest in aviation partnerships. Ghanaian Foreign Minister highlighted ’s intention to increase direct flights to to daily services and discussed efforts to revive Ghana Airways, aiming to enhance bilateral aviation ties and mobility.

On June 3, 2025, and signed key agreements, including a memorandum of understanding on air services and visa exemptions for diplomatic passports, during President Kagame’s official visit. The agreements aim to establish direct flights between Kigali and Algiers, boosting connectivity for and . Cooperation also extends to telecoms, education, and investment, with Rwanda planning to open an embassy in Algeria. These accords strengthen diplomatic relations and mark a significant milestone toward enhanced aviation links and broader economic collaboration.

On June 6–7, 2025, ’s President and Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo signed three bilateral agreements focused on trade, air travel, and ICT during Chapo’s official two-day visit to . This visit commemorates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The air travel agreement aims to improve connectivity between and , facilitating the easier movement of people and goods to spur economic development and regional integration. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to deepening cooperation for mutual prosperity.

On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, the (FAAN) and Plateau State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at FAAN headquarters in Lagos to transform Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos into an international cargo hub. This initiative will facilitate the export of agricultural produce from Plateau State to global markets. Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and FAAN Managing Director Mrs. signed the MoU on behalf of their respective entities. Supported by the African Development Bank, the project includes establishing a processing center to enhance cargo operations and is part of broader efforts to reduce Nigeria’s annual food wastage—estimated at over N3.5 trillion—by improving export infrastructure and market access for farmers.

On June 4, 2025, Shanghai Pudong International Airport Cargo Terminal Co., Ltd. (PACTL) signed strategic collaboration agreements with Group and at an international logistics exhibition in Munich,. These agreements will establish overseas cargo stations at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in and Mexico City International Airport in . The Ethiopian station is projected to handle over 600,000 tons of cargo annually, while the Mexican station is expected to manage more than 100,000 tons per year. This expansion supports China’s dual circulation development strategy and enhances Shanghai’s position as a global air cargo hub.

and have expanded their codeshare partnership to enhance connectivity between and destinations in , and via . Under the new agreement, both airlines will place their codes on 17 routes across , and . Specifically, Air India will add its ‘AI’ code to Air Mauritius flights serving Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Antananarivo. The partnership, which already covers routes between and Mumbai, Delhi, and Reunion, was formalized by Air India CEO Campbell Wilson and Air Mauritius Chairman Kishore Beegoo during the IATA AGM in New Delhi, held from June 1 to June 3, 2025.

On May 30, 2025, , an independent EASA-certified line maintenance provider, announced a new agreement with to expand its services across and the . The partnership supports Ethiopian Airlines’ young fleet of 162 aircraft by providing routine and non-routine maintenance at airports including Amman, Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. ATS Technic will also coordinate with flight crews, manage fuel delivery, and conduct safety inspections to ensure high operational and safety standards. This collaboration strengthens ATS Technic’s presence in the Middle East and supports regional aviation industry growth.

Air bp signed an agreement to support ’s aviation development plans at Angola’s Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport (NBJ) through tailored technical services. These include engineering expertise, infrastructure support, digital tools, and training. The collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and compliance with international standards. Both parties emphasized the value of combining Air bp’s global technical leadership with local knowledge to strengthen ’s aviation sector and position Sonangol as a key regional player.

On June 2, 2025, launched a real-time aviation data-sharing system in partnership with the and to enhance border security and align with global aviation safety standards. Announced by the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, the platform enables authorities to share passenger and travel data with international security partners, aiding in the detection of terrorism, human trafficking, and transnational crimes. Integrated with Interpol’s I-24/7 network and compliant with UN Security Council mandates, the initiative follows previous aviation security lapses—most notably the 2016 Daallo Airlines bombing—and supports ongoing reforms, including airport modernization and the establishment of an aviation training academy.

has resumed flights to Nairobi after a 13-year break, with its first service landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on June 2, 2025. The Bahraini flag carrier now operates five weekly flights—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Sundays, and twice on Fridays—using A320neo aircraft. The relaunch is part of Gulf Air’s 2025 network expansion, which also includes several European routes, and aims to boost tourism, trade, and diplomatic ties between and . Gulf Air previously served Nairobi until November 2012.

, , marked a milestone on June 1, 2025, with the arrival of ’ inaugural direct flight, enhancing connectivity between the Middle East and Africa. The airline now operates four weekly services between Addis Ababa and Sharjah, bolstering the emirate’s position as a growing regional and international travel hub. The maiden flight was celebrated with a reception attended by senior officials from both sides, underscoring Sharjah’s increasing role in cross-continental aviation.

will enhance its Johannesburg–Kigali service from June 15, 2025, by increasing frequency from seven to 11 weekly flights. The four new return flights include WB103, departing Johannesburg at 03:10 and arriving in Kigali at 07:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Return flight WB102 departs Kigali at 22:30 and arrives in Johannesburg at 02:20 the following day on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

will launch a new Lomé–Conakry–Nouakchott route on August 2, 2025, operating three times a week with 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This strategic expansion makes ASKY the only airline serving all 15 ECOWAS member states, cementing Lomé’s role as a central West African hub. However, the airline was not granted fifth freedom rights on the Nouakchott–Conakry return segment, meaning it cannot carry passengers solely between those two cities. The route nonetheless improves access to Mauritania, a country with limited intra-African air links.

will resume direct flights between East Midlands Airport, and Sharm El Sheikh, in March 2026, reinstating a route last operated in 2023. The twice-weekly service, operating on Mondays and Thursdays, is part of TUI’s broader network rebuild. Four-night all-inclusive packages to the Red Sea destination start at £1,237 per person, with departures beginning July 23, 2026. The relaunch coincides with the airline’s new in-flight dining partnership with .

Abu Dhabi will launch flights to s Assiut International Airport on July 1, 2025, temporarily replacing its Sohag service due to runway maintenance. Operating three times weekly, the route offers fares from AED 439 and ensures continued connectivity to Upper Egypt. Assiut, located around 100 km north of Sohag, serves as a practical alternative during the maintenance period. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi will launch seasonal services to Giza’s Sphinx International Airport from June 26 to September 11, also operating three times weekly.

is expanding its London Gatwick–Cape Town service in response to growing demand. The carrier will now operate the route for eight months—between October 2, 2025, and May 31, 2026—with up to six weekly flights using 787 Dreamliners. The expansion reflects Norse’s long-term commitment to the South African market and offers both Economy and Norse Premium options. Bookings are available through major Global Distribution Systems (GDS).

’s boutique charter airline, , has launched operations from Grand Central Airport in Midrand, targeting regional travelers in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The carrier offers quick, on-demand bookings for its air-conditioned Beechcraft Baron aircraft, which are equipped with leather seats and Bose headsets. Destinations include Kruger, Hilton, Graaff-Reinet, and Plettenberg Bay. Sample full charter pricing is R35,000 for up to five passengers—offering a streamlined, cost-effective alternative to traditional private aviation and avoiding major airport congestion.

has suspended its direct Abidjan–Johannesburg service effective June 3, 2025, due to operational constraints. The route, launched in 2022 with four weekly A320neo flights, is expected to resume in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet expansion. Air Côte d’Ivoire will soon introduce two A330-900neo to support its long-haul ambitions, including planned routes to Paris and Beirut. Passengers with existing bookings are advised to contact the airline for rebooking or refunds.

(KCAA) has denied Airlines Nederland B.V. a license to operate charter flights between Amsterdam, Zanzibar, and Mombasa. The airline had proposed a twice-weekly Boeing 787 Dreamliner service targeting East Africa’s tourism corridor. The application was declined without a public explanation, marking a setback for TUI’s efforts to expand its footprint in the region.

has extended the leases on five 777-300ERs through November 2026 to maintain long-haul capacity ahead of the arrival of its Airbus A350-900s, with deliveries starting in December 2025. In parallel, the airline is retrofitting its Boeing 737-800s to increase seat density and introduce updated cabin features. EgyptAir is also converting two Airbus A330-200s into dedicated freighters while refurbishing the rest for continued passenger service. Beginning January 2026, the airline will start receiving 18 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. These strategic moves support EgyptAir’s fleet modernization roadmap, which targets 97 aircraft by 2030, aiming to enhance operational flexibility, efficiency, and both passenger and cargo service quality.

is preparing to place an order for at least 20 new regional or small narrowbody aircraft to renew its domestic fleet and phase out older models. CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele confirmed the carrier is evaluating the E2 family, Airbus A220, and Boeing 737 MAX 7, with final quantities dependent on the selected type. The airline is currently grappling with delivery delays from both Boeing and Airbus, as well as aircraft groundings caused by global engine supply shortages. As of June 2025, three Boeing 787s and five turboprops remain grounded. Ethiopian is also exploring additional short-term leasing options to meet surging travel demand.

Mont Gabaon Airlines has expanded its regional footprint with the acquisition of an ERJ-145LR (registration 5Y-CRZ), formerly operated by Kenya-based . The 50-seat jet will serve regional routes in Central and East Africa, notably linking Nairobi with Kinshasa. Known for its fuel efficiency and suitability for short-to-medium-haul operations, the ERJ-145LR strengthens Mont Gabaon’s ability to provide reliable service across underserved city pairs in the region.

has reinforced its medium-haul fleet with the wet lease of a 17.2-year-old Airbus A320 (registration LZ-FSD) from ’s . This marks the airline’s second such agreement since 2024 and is part of a broader fleet expansion strategy aimed at boosting capacity across African, European, and North American routes. Through wet leasing, Air Algérie is bridging capacity gaps, accelerating network growth, and maintaining service continuity amid longer-term fleet planning.

has temporarily leased a 12.2-year-old A330-200 (registration EC-NZJ) from ’s to support long-haul operations, including key routes to Paris, Montreal, and Jeddah during the 2025 Hajj season. This aircraft is covering for one of the airline’s A330s currently undergoing maintenance since April. To maintain its medium-haul schedule, Tunisair has also wet-leased an Airbus A320-200 from . These measures highlight the airline’s ongoing efforts to stabilize operations amid persistent fleet challenges.

has expanded its long-haul capacity by leasing a 16.1-year-old Airbus A330-200 (registration 9H-HFL) from . The aircraft now operates international routes including Paris, Brussels, and Lagos. This comes as the airline prepares to bolster its narrowbody fleet with two additional Boeing 737-800s expected in the second half of 2025. One of the incoming 737s is managed by and was previously operated by .

Kenya-based Advantage Air has grown its cargo operations with the addition of a 33-year-old ATR72-200 freighter, formerly in service with Feeder. The aircraft departed Goose Bay, , on June 3, 2025, and was scheduled to arrive in Nairobi on June 6. This acquisition brings the carrier’s freighter fleet to four aircraft, which also includes CRJ200F and Fokker 50F units. The expansion reflects growing regional demand for air freight and strengthens Advantage Air’s position in the East African logistics market.

Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport is set for a major expansion, with 28 international firms responding to an Expression of Interest (EOI) issued by Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA). The project will include a new 450,000-square-metre terminal with a 20 million annual passenger capacity, a 3,700-metre runway, new taxiways and aircraft stands, a 42-metre control tower, and an on-site hotel. Respondents include 14 companies from , five from , four from , and one each from , and . Estimated at MAD 15 billion (approximately USD 1.5 billion), the development is scheduled for completion by 2029, in preparation for s role as a host of the 2030 World Cup. The new terminal will also be integrated with Morocco’s high-speed rail network to enhance multimodal connectivity.

’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, held talks with European Bank for Reconstruction and Development () officials on June 3, 2025, to explore investment opportunities in Egypt’s aviation infrastructure. Discussions centered on supporting airport modernization projects aligned with Egypt’s privatization agenda and Vision 2030 objectives, which emphasize sustainability, private sector participation, and green technologies. Minister El-Hefny underscored Egypt’s commitment to attracting international investment and implementing eco-friendly innovations. EBRD representatives welcomed the country’s aviation sector reforms and expressed interest in providing both financial and technical assistance to improve airport capacity, efficiency, and competitiveness.

has launched a long-term airport security contract with ’s Ministry of Transport, covering four airports under a 15+ year agreement. The contract, announced on June 2, 2025, aims to upgrade airport security infrastructure to international standards, potentially boosting Gabon’s air traffic and attractiveness to global carriers. Expected to generate approximately USD 5.5 million in its first year, the deal reinforces Westminster’s global presence in managed security services. As part of the update, Westminster also granted 13.7 million share options to key staff under its 2017 Share Option Scheme, tied to company share price performance. Westminster provides advanced security solutions to governments, NGOs, and commercial clients worldwide.

has overtaken to become ’ second-largest foreign revenue market, signaling a major shift in the airline’s international performance. While intra-African operations remain the top revenue source, now surpasses Europe, the Middle East, North America, and in terms of income. The shift comes amid a steep decline in Indian market revenues, which dropped from KSh?5.5 billion in 2019 to just KSh?1.78 billion in 2024—a 67% plunge. In contrast, strong performance on China routes highlights rising demand and underscores the market’s growing strategic importance. As Kenya Airways continues to recalibrate its international network, China is emerging as a vital growth pillar in its long-term commercial strategy.

President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing travel bans on nationals from 12 countries, including seven African nations: and . Effective June 9, the ban is justified by the administration on grounds of national security, citing terrorism threats, high visa overstay rates, and insufficient cooperation with deportation procedures. However, the policy has drawn criticism for inconsistent application—countries like and , which have higher overstay rates, were notably excluded. Critics argue the measure unjustly penalizes entire populations for the actions of a few and may undermine diplomatic ties. Policy experts have proposed alternative solutions such as visa bonds to promote individual compliance without stigmatizing entire nations. In response, the African Union, , and have issued formal statements. Notably, ’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby announced the suspension of visa issuance to U.S. citizens in reciprocal protest.

The (DRC) officially launched its new biometric passport on June 5, 2025, aligning with the highest international security standards set by the (ICAO). Developed in collaboration with German biometric technology firm and spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the passport includes a contactless RFID chip, polycarbonate data page, holographic security features, UV printing, and embedded watermarks. A nationwide rollout includes 100 biometric enrollment stations—both fixed and mobile—spread across the country and at diplomatic missions abroad. These stations capture fingerprints, iris scans, facial recognition data, and signatures. Centralized production will enable the issuance of up to 2,400 passports per day, marking a major step forward in digital identity management for the DRC.

has officially launched an online visa application system (e-Visa), streamlining the process for international travelers and supporting tourism growth. Announced by Deputy Minister Dunstan Kitandula in Parliament on June 5, 2025, the system allows applicants to secure visas remotely without visiting Tanzanian embassies. As part of broader reforms, the 2023 Immigration Regulations have been amended to permit tourists holding valid visitor passes to travel freely within (EAC) member states without needing to reapply for a visa. Currently, citizens of 71 countries enjoy visa-free access to , while others may obtain visas on arrival at key airports. These initiatives underscore the government’s efforts to modernize border management and enhance Tanzania’s appeal as a regional tourism hub.

The (NCAA) has appointed Nelson Ashipala as its new Manager for Stakeholder Relations and Communications, effective 1 June. In this key role, Ashipala will act as the primary spokesperson for the NCAA, managing the organisation’s public image and cultivating strategic relationships with key stakeholders. Prior to joining the NCAA, he served as Corporate Communications and Online Media Manager for Namibia Wildlife Resorts, bringing valuable experience in communications and public engagement to his new position.

has received the Green Award 2025 from the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority, recognizing its outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The prestigious award celebrates the airline’s initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint, including advancements in fuel efficiency, waste minimization, and the adoption of eco-friendly technologies. This recognition reaffirms Ethiopian Airlines’ leadership in promoting sustainable aviation practices, both within Ethiopia and across Africa, and aligns with national and continental goals for environmental protection and sustainable development.

Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of , has been honored with the 2025 Ato Girma Wake Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contribution to route development and the growth of African aviation. Presented by and selected by its advisory board, the award pays tribute to leaders who have made a lasting impact on the continent’s air transport industry. Named after AviaDev’s esteemed patron, Ato Girma Wake, the award highlights Tasew’s visionary leadership and enduring influence in strengthening connectivity and advancing aviation across Africa.

, founder and CEO of , has been named “Air Cargo Personality of the Year” at the 2025 World Air Cargo Awards, held during Air Cargo Europe in Munich on June 3, 2025. In his acceptance speech, Gadhia expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that the recognition reflects not only his personal journey but also the collective achievements of his team, clients, partners, and family over a 25-year career. He acknowledged the industry’s challenges and the collaborative spirit that has driven innovation and growth, reaffirming his commitment to shaping the future of air cargo and raising global standards.

A former executive director of Nigeria’s recently testified in a Lagos court that he authorized a USD 2.3 million write-off of ’s debt, highlighting controversial financial decisions amid the airline’s prolonged financial struggles. Arik Air’s total debt has now surged to about ?455 billion (approximately USD 1.1 billion), raising fears of possible liquidation amid an ongoing ?79 billion (around USD 190 million) fraud investigation involving key officials and entities linked to the airline’s management. Since the government took over the airline in 2017 due to an initial debt of over ?300 billion (USD 730 million), attempts to restructure the debt and improve governance have failed, with Arik unable to meet obligations and resisting proposed changes. The (AMCON) reports that Arik owes ?227.6 billion (USD 550 million) to AMCON itself, ?163.5 billion (USD 395 million) to Rockson Engineering, and ?14 billion (USD 34 million) to Ojemai Farms. Despite its financial woes, Arik Air remained one of Nigeria’s busiest carriers in 2024, carrying over 2.2 million passengers.

Air Sénégal S.A is currently embroiled in a significant legal dispute as two Irish Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) linked to Carlyle Aviation Partners are demanding the court-ordered return of four leased aircraft—specifically, two Airbus A319s and two A321s—due to payment defaults. This legal action comes amid a severe financial crisis for the airline, which is already under a government-backed rescue plan because of debts exceeding USD 200 million. If the aircraft are repossessed, it could severely disrupt Air Sénégal’s regional flight operations, increasing uncertainty about the airline’s financial stability and future viability.

Germany’s Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU) has released its official report on the June 10, 2024 crash that killed Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others. The investigation concluded that the Malawi Defence Force Dornier 228-202(K) went down due to the flight crew’s decision to continue flying at low altitude in adverse weather conditions. Contributing factors included poor flight planning, marginal weather, and lack of situational awareness. Germany responded to a formal request from Malawi by sending a team to assist in the investigation and worked with the aircraft manufacturer. The BFU also met with victims’ families to share the findings.

On June 2, 2025, a Bell 412 helicopter (registration AUO-012) operated by Burundi African Union (AU) / AUSSOM experienced a technical malfunction and made a forced landing near Hawadley, Somalia. The incident occurred while en route during a military operation. There were no fatalities among the occupants, but the helicopter sustained substantial damage.

On June 5, 2025, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX (registration 5Y-SXI) operated by Scenic Air Safaris crashed during takeoff from Retiti Airstrip, Kenya. The left wing was severed in the accident, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. All nine occupants survived with no fatalities. Retiti Airstrip is an unpaved, approximately 800-meter-long runway at around 2,625 feet elevation.

On June 5, 2025, a privately operated Cessna T210N Turbo Centurion (registration ZS-MZJ) crashed near Lanseria International Airport, South Africa, shortly after takeoff during initial climb. The pilot died in the accident, while the passenger sustained serious injuries. Witnesses noted the aircraft had a long takeoff run and struggled to gain altitude. Air traffic control contacted the pilot, who initially confirmed an issue and later announced a forced landing in a nearby field. The aircraft was destroyed.

The NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE (NCS) has suspended the grounding of around 60 foreign-registered private jets over alleged unpaid import duties and opted for dialogue instead. The aircraft, previously grounded at Lagos and Abuja airports, were allowed to resume operations following a circular dated June 4, 2025, authorizing their “temporary unsealing” to facilitate engagement between Customs and aircraft operators on settling outstanding duties. The NCS clarified that this move does not waive any statutory obligations but aims to encourage compliance.

Libya’s Government of National Unity has announced plans to establish a new state-owned national airline, but the move has caused confusion. Initially believed to be a merger of Libyan Airlines and AFRIQIYAH AIRWAYS, sources within Afriqiyah deny this, stating there is little clarity on the government’s intentions. Both airlines are currently under the Libyan African Aviation Holding Company. The announcement appears to be part of a broader infrastructure and aviation sector reform, yet no funding or operational details have been provided—raising concerns amid the country’s ongoing financial struggles and unstable political landscape.

Confusion has arisen in late May 2025 over the eligibility of 5,000 carbon credits issued on Zimbabwe’s national registry for CORSIA Phase 1 after being transferred from the Gold Standard registry on May 25. Although tagged as “CORSIA eligible” on May 26, Zimbabwe’s registry is not approved by ICAO, unlike other countries with mutual recognition agreements. This has raised doubts among market participants and airlines about their acceptance. Limited supply, high blockchain transaction fees ($6.40), and uncertain demand add to concerns. However, the credits remain valid for Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement. Prices held steady at $22.25 per tCO2e as of early June 2025.

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