(Posted 17th June 2025)

AviaDev Africa 2025 took place in from June 11–13, drawing over 500 delegates from 46 countries, including representatives from 36 airlines. Held near Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, the event facilitated more than 1,200 route development meetings and featured panel discussions on sustainable operations, artificial intelligence, and stakeholder collaboration. The summit reinforced the importance of partnerships and data-driven strategies in accelerating intra-African connectivity. With its successful hosting, Zanzibar strengthened its position as a regional aviation center. The next edition of AviaDev will take place in in 2026.

From June 10–11, 2025, Dar es Salaam hosted a high-level conference that brought together air traffic controllers and aviation experts from and several other countries. The two-day event, organized under the auspices of the TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA), focused on strengthening air traffic management systems across Africa by addressing global technological challenges and sharing best practices. The conference served as a platform for collaboration, training, and strategic dialogue on the future of air navigation services in the region. Topics discussed included the integration of advanced communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) technologies, digitalization of air traffic control systems, cybersecurity threats, human factors, and the growing importance of automation and AI in air traffic management.

is moving forward with plans to establish its own national airline, aiming to boost air connectivity and drive tourism growth across the archipelago. The initiative was announced on 10 June 2025 by Nadir Abdulatif Yussuf, Zanzibar’s Deputy Minister for Works, Communication, and Transport, who confirmed that advanced discussions are underway with potential investors. Notably, preliminary negotiations have begun with EGYPTAIR to explore the feasibility of launching the airline from the ground up. This initiative complements broader efforts to enhance inter-island mobility—including the planned launch of scheduled AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED flights to starting July 2025—and to increase Zanzibar’s appeal to both tourists and investors.

In , the aviation sector has been severely disrupted following the enforcement of a contentious regulation by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), mandating the mandatory overhaul of all aircraft engines older than 12 years, regardless of operational hours or condition. The directive has grounded over 1,400 aircraft, sparking backlash from aircraft owners who argue that the cost of overhaul exceeds the value of some aircraft, threatening the sustainability of an industry that supports approximately 300,000 jobs. SACAA has defended the policy on safety grounds, citing alignment with international standards set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and highlighting risks such as corrosion and material fatigue. The regulation follows the 2023 withdrawal of AIC 18.19, which had previously allowed condition-based inspections in lieu of calendar-based overhauls.

On 13 June 2025, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued a travel advisory warning British travelers heading to that a confirmed return ticket is now a mandatory requirement for entry. This directive, issued by Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority, applies to arrivals between 12 and 16 June. Travelers without proof of return may be denied entry and repatriated at their own expense. The measure appears to be connected to heightened security concerns surrounding the Global March to , during which over 4,000 activists from more than 80 countries are expected to converge in and march toward the Rafah border to demand humanitarian access into Gaza. While the protesters reportedly have no intention of crossing into Gaza, they plan to transit through Sinai and camp en route.

In response to the escalating regional tensions, the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation has declared a maximum state of alert at Cairo International Airport and all other national airports. Although Egyptian airspace remains safe and fully operational, the Ministry has enhanced surveillance and is closely monitoring developments via its central operations center in coordination with neighboring aviation authorities. Several foreign airlines have diverted to Cairo for refueling due to airspace restrictions in nearby regions, while EgyptAir has temporarily suspended services to Baghdad, Amman, and Beirut pending further updates.

In May 2025, Airbus led in aircraft deliveries with 51 units, though this marked a decline from 56 in April, bringing its year-to-date total to 243 deliveries. To achieve its ambitious 2025 target of 820 aircraft, the manufacturer now needs to average 82 deliveries per month—a target increasingly at risk due to ongoing supply chain constraints. Airbus recorded no new orders in May but is anticipated to unveil major deals during the upcoming Paris Air Show. Its backlog stood at 8,617 aircraft, equivalent to 10.5 years of production at current rates.

Boeing, meanwhile, delivered 45 aircraft in May, maintaining the same pace as April. The deliveries comprised 31 737 MAXs, 5 777s, and 7 787 Dreamliners, bringing the company’s total deliveries for the year to 220 by the end of May. In contrast to Airbus, Boeing outperformed in orders, securing 303 gross new orders in May, largely driven by a landmark $96 billion widebody deal with Qatar Airways. Boeing’s backlog now totals 6,528 aircraft, representing approximately 11.5 years of production.

Embraer’s 2025 Market Outlook projects the delivery of 10,500 new sub-150-seat aircraft globally through 2044, comprising 8,720 jets and 1,780 turboprops, with an estimated total market value of USD 680 billion. Jet demand is expected to be led by (2,680 units), followed by & CIS (1,990), (1,500), (1,050), (770), (380), and the (350). For turboprops, Asia Pacific will dominate with 640 deliveries, followed by North America (280), Europe & CIS (260), Africa (220), China (200), Latin America (160), and the Middle East (20). Embraer also forecasts global passenger traffic, measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK), to grow at an average annual rate of 3.9% through 2044, with the highest growth expected in China (5.7%), Latin America (4.7%), and both Africa and the Middle East at 4.4%.

In , international tourist arrivals reached 37,038 in May 2025, reflecting a 23.5% increase compared to May 2024, according to the Office of the Chief Government Statistician. Although slightly down by 0.3% from April 2025, the figures signal a robust tourism recovery. Europe continues to be the leading source region, with Germany accounting for 10.8% of arrivals and South Africa contributing 6.3%. The majority of visitors (88.1%) arrived through Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. Notably, emerging markets such as India, Poland, and China recorded a significant 60.8% year-on-year increase. Most tourists traveled for leisure, with 25.8% staying for seven days.

On 14 June 2025, Air Cairo signed a strategic partnership with MedAire to boost in-flight medical safety and comply with international aviation health standards. The deal, signed by Chairman Capt. Ahmed Shannan and MedAire’s Riley Rajan, introduces “MedLink,” a 24/7 emergency line for flight crews, and pre-flight medical assessments for chronically ill passengers. Aimed at reducing diversions and improving care, the program begins mid-July 2025 and supports Air Cairo’s modernization efforts focused on safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Air Seychelles has entered a long-term agreement with AIRPM to adopt AIRPMx, a smart network planning platform by Milanamos SAS and AviaPro. Following a successful trial, the airline reported improved planning and decision-making. The SaaS tool integrates scheduling, route development, market intelligence, and fleet planning, powered by real-time data from over 380 sources. It supports multi-method forecasting and demand modelling. CCO Charles Johnson praised its efficiency gains, while AviaPro’s Jorge Abando highlighted its role in navigating aviation’s operational complexities.

United Nigeria Airlines signed a global distribution deal with Sabre Central & West Africa, making its fares available on the Sabre Corporation travel marketplace for the first time. This expands the airline’s visibility and connects it with global travelers. COO Osita Okonkwo called it a key growth milestone, improving access for travel agents worldwide. Sabre’s Alessandro Ciancimino and Joshua Olowolajuogbon emphasized their mission to support local carriers in scaling operations and enhancing customer experiences through expanded distribution.

RwandAir Ltd partnered with Accra Weizo 2025, a key West African travel expo scheduled for 27 June in , to promote tourism and seamless intra-African travel. The event, organized by Akwaaba: African Travel Market with support from Ghana Tourism Authority and GTDC, attracts regional tour operators. RwandAir, operating to Accra since 2013 with three weekly Boeing 737 flights, connects to its global network via Kigali and its Qatar Airways alliance, and partners with Africa World Airlines for enhanced regional links.

KlasJet partnered with Air Cairo to run summer charter flights from Milan, and Sharjah. to Cairo, between 30 May and 31 October 2025. The agreement, finalized and launched in just three days, makes KlasJet the first EASA-based ACMI provider to work with Air Cairo. Aimed at boosting Egypt’s tourism, the deal supports charter operations to holiday destinations. Air Cairo, part-owned by EgyptAir, plays a key role in attracting tourists to Egypt, which earned $4.8 billion from tourism last July–September.

TAAG-ANGOLA AIRLINES LIMITED and Turkish Airlines renewed their Interline and Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) during the 81st IATA AGM in New Delhi. from 1–3 June 2025. CEOs Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira (TAAG) and Bilal Ek?i (Turkish Airlines) reaffirmed their long-standing partnership to enhance global connectivity. The renewed agreement includes discussions on potential codeshares, cargo collaboration, and technical support. Both airlines agreed to maintain regular engagement and explore mutual growth opportunities in Africa, Europe, Asia, and beyond.

On 10 June 2025, AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED launched a twice-weekly service between Zanzibar and Johannesburg, operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The outbound and return legs both transit via Dar es Salaam, reinforcing regional air links and enhancing connectivity across East Africa’s leading tourism corridors. This route complements the airline’s existing Dar es Salaam–Johannesburg service and supports ongoing efforts to strengthen access to leisure destinations.

Flightlink, a Tanzanian regional airline, has inaugurated a new daily direct service from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Zanzibar, starting 15 June 2025. Operated with ATR 72-500 aircraft, the route improves East African connectivity, offering travelers comfort, a generous baggage allowance, and convenient access to the Indian Ocean destination. Flightlink also plans to introduce flights between Nairobi Wilson and Arusha to better serve the region’s safari circuit.

Transavia will begin operating flights from Amsterdam to Cairo three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—starting 27 October 2025. Cairo becomes the carrier’s fourth Egyptian destination after Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Marsa Alam. In response to growing demand for cultural and leisure travel, Transavia is also launching a Brussels–Agadir service and expanding its fleet with Airbus A321neo aircraft to increase capacity and enhance onboard efficiency and comfort.

LOT Polish Airlines will commence direct flights between Warsaw, and Marrakesh, on 29 October 2025, with twice-weekly departures on Wednesdays and Saturdays using Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 737-800 aircraft. The route will provide travelers with direct access to Morocco’s iconic “Red City,” enhancing links between Central Europe and North Africa. This launch is part of LOT’s broader expansion strategy across leisure markets in Southern Europe and North Africa.

Air Nostrum, Iberia’s regional partner, has resumed its seasonal services between Málaga and with flights to Tangier and Casablanca. Tangier flights will operate from now until 30 September, initially twice weekly and increasing to five times a week during the summer peak, offering over 8,200 seats. Casablanca flights will run from 19 July to 30 August on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. All flights operate under a codeshare agreement with Royal Air Maroc, enhancing travel options between and .

Cathay Pacific will increase its Hong Kong–Johannesburg frequency to daily service starting 1 July 2025, up from five weekly flights. Operated by Airbus Aircraft A350-900, the expanded schedule offers greater flexibility for passengers and enhanced cargo capacity, especially for express goods such as perishables and mail. The route connects seamlessly to major Asian and Australasian cities via Hong Kong and is part of Cathay’s HK$100 billion global investment in fleet upgrades, lounges, and digital transformation.

United Nigeria Airlines will launch its first international route to Accra, , on 25 August 2025, marking a milestone in the airline’s regional expansion. This follows a new global distribution partnership with Sabre Corporation, making the airline’s fares accessible to travel agents worldwide. Currently serving several Nigerian cities, the airline plans to grow its fleet significantly—by over 2,000% within a year—introducing Boeing 737-800NG jets by early 2026 and acquiring wide-body aircraft to support further international growth.

Air Peace, ’s largest carrier, made history on 12 June 2025 by becoming the first Nigerian airline to land at Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport in . A Boeing 777 was deployed for the milestone flight, organized for a Pan-African business summit in the Eastern Caribbean. This marks Air Peace’s third Caribbean breakthrough, following inaugural flights to in 2020 and in 2023. CEO Dr. Allen Onyema has signaled more long-haul expansions ahead, with future routes to Houston and New York under consideration.

On June 11, 2025, Knighthood Global Limited—the consultancy managing the turnaround of LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES—issued an international Request for Proposals (RFP) for up to five Boeing 737?700 aircraft. The jets will be configured in a two-class, 120–140-seat layout for intra-African operations. Bidders must submit proposals, including technical, maintenance, and commercial details, by June 20. This fleet modernization is part of a broader recovery plan led by former Etihad CEO James Hogan, aimed at reducing LAM’s $300 million debt and restoring operational sustainability, as the airline currently flies with just three active aircraft.

On June 4, 2025, Malawian startup Flytech Aviation Group Limited took delivery of a 36-year-old Embraer EMB-120ER Brasilia, registered as 7Q-ARA. Formerly operated by U.S. carrier Skippers Aviation Pty Ltd, the 30-seat aircraft joins Flytech’s growing fleet of four Brasilias and one Douglas DC-9-14. Founded in 2024, the airline is steadily expanding its domestic footprint, targeting underserved routes in and neighboring countries with turboprop aircraft suitable for short-haul regional travel.

Nouvelair Tunisia has added a 20.7-year-old Airbus A320 to its fleet, leased from Electra Airways, replacing another unit returned on June 10. The aircraft, registered LZ-EAC and configured with 180 all-economy seats, arrived in Djerba on May 31 and began operations the next day. It is expected to bolster Nouvelair’s capacity during the peak European summer travel season, maintaining services on key leisure routes across Europe from Tunisia’s coastal gateways.

Air Cairo has strengthened its fleet with the addition of a 10.3-year-old Airbus A320-200, registered SU-BWE and previously operated by Macquarie AirFinance. The delivery aligns with the airline’s expansion and fleet modernization strategy, aimed at increasing capacity for charter and scheduled services to the , and regional destinations. The A320 will enhance operational flexibility ahead of Egypt’s busy summer travel period.

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has authorized the immediate replacement of four outdated Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) machines at OR Tambo and King Shaka International Airports. Aviation Coordination Services (ACS) welcomed the decision, which ends a prolonged legal dispute with Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). Given OR Tambo’s annual passenger volume of over 21 million, the upgrade is essential for meeting International Civil Aviation Organization standards and safeguarding passenger safety amid rising security concerns linked to aging infrastructure.

’s government will upgrade 11 regional airfields during the 2025–2026 fiscal year to promote tourism, trade, and regional integration. Enhancements will include runway improvements, apron expansions, security upgrades, and communication systems. The initiative aims to attract commercial carriers, reduce pressure on Entebbe International Airport, and boost access to remote destinations, positioning Uganda as a more connected and competitive player in ’s aviation landscape.

is nearing completion of a new border security system—the Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record (APIPNR)—to strengthen aviation safety and national security. Over 80% complete, the system will capture and analyze real-time passenger data before flight arrivals, supporting threat detection and risk management. Announced on June 11 by GCAA Director-General Stephen W. Arthur, the system is part of 70 modernization projects, including a new air traffic control center scheduled for 2026.

FlySafair has launched “Lindi,” ’s first AI-powered travel assistant, in partnership with local tech firm Stubber. Operating via WhatsApp and currently in beta, Lindi can book flights, modify bookings, and provide 24/7 support. Designed to improve the travel experience, the AI tool has received positive feedback for its ease of use and human-like interaction. FlySafair sees Lindi as a key step toward greater automation and customer-centric innovation in the airline sector.

In’s 2025/26 national budget, the government allocated approximately $499 million (500 billion Rwandan francs) to complete Bugesera International Airport by 2027–2028. Located 40 km south of Kigali, the project is part of a $2 billion master plan to make a regional aviation hub. The national budget has increased by 21% to $5 billion, with the airport development financed through a mix of domestic revenues (58%), grants (8%), and external loans (31%).

Jambojet, Kenya Airways’ low-cost subsidiary, reported a KSh?873 million (USD?6.8 million) loss in 2024, despite a 25% rise in revenue to KSh?11.2 billion, driven by growing passenger demand. Losses stemmed from elevated fuel prices and currency depreciation. Meanwhile, parent company Kenya Airways posted a pre-tax profit of KSh?5.53 billion (USD?42.8 million), its first since 2013, aided by forex gains and improved cost controls—marking a major turnaround from its KSh?22.86 billion loss in 2023.

Kenya’s Public Procurement Administrative Review Board has barred the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) from canceling an ongoing airport security tender in favor of a higher-cost re-tender. The intervention followed concerns over transparency and cost inflation. KAA must proceed with the current procurement process, ensuring compliance with public procurement regulations and protecting taxpayer value while avoiding potential legal and operational disruptions.

’s aviation sector is under strain as national carrier LAM – MOZAMBIQUE AIRLINES’s $75 million debt threatens the financial viability of Mozambique Airports (AdM), which relies on LAM for 40% of its revenue. A report by the Centre for Public Integrity reveals AdM’s fragility, exacerbated by corruption-tainted projects and underused infrastructure like Nacala Airport and Filipe Nyusi. With AdM technically insolvent, experts urge urgent restructuring, liberalization, and diversified revenue strategies to avert a collapse of the country’s aviation ecosystem.

On June 14, 2025, Captain Ahmed Adel, Chairman and CEO of Egyptair Holding Company, announced two key financial leadership appointments aimed at enhancing oversight and regional operations. Amir Taha, formerly Head of the Financial Affairs Sector at EgyptAir Holding, has been appointed General Manager of Financial Affairs at EgyptAir’s Jeddah office in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Ahmed Abdel Rahim Bassiouni Youssef, previously head of the General Departments for Financial Affairs at EgyptAir Airlines, has been promoted to lead the Financial Affairs Sector at the holding company.

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) announced that Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Moi International Airport (MIA), and its Head Office have been awarded ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications. Granted by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), these certifications recognize KAA’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and occupational health and safety. The achievement underscores the authority’s compliance with environmental regulations and its dedication to enhancing employee safety and workplace conditions. KAA noted that the successful integration of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) principles into daily operations will be maintained through regular audits and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Delhi Bench of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) has ruled that Ethiopian Airlines’ income of ?1.71 crore (approx. USD 205,000), earned from providing simulator training services to Dubai-based Flight Simulation Technique Centre (FSTC), is not taxable in. The tribunal found the services were delivered entirely in Addis Ababa under an agreement between two non-resident entities, with no Indian involvement. It held that the services did not qualify as “Fees for Technical Services” under Indian law and, with no permanent establishment in India, the income was exempt under the India–Ethiopia Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).

The Kenyan Employment and Labor Relations Court has awarded KSh 2.08 million (approx. USD 16,000) to Michael Kariuki Nderitu, a former Kenya Airways procurement officer, for unfair dismissal. Justice Hellen Wasilwa found that the airline failed to justify his 2020 termination, which arose from a contractual disagreement with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines over late return fees. The court ruled that Nderitu was wrongly blamed for overcharges exceeding USD 350,000, and Kenya Airways did not provide audited proof of financial loss. Nderitu was granted one month’s salary in lieu of notice and eight months’ salary as compensation.

Air Sénégal S.A is facing legal action from Carlyle Aviation Partners through two of its special-purpose vehicles—SASOF III Aviation Ireland DAC and Aergen Aircraft Twenty Ltd—over alleged breaches of lease agreements. The dispute involves four Airbus jets (two A319s and two A321s), representing nearly half of the airline’s fleet. Carlyle terminated the leases in August 2024 after defaults and obtained a court order for repossession, which has faced enforcement delays due to resistance from airline personnel. The lessor has raised its claim to USD 18 million, while Air Sénégal disputes the aircraft valuation and repayment terms.

On Sunday, 8 June 2025, a Piper PA-28-181 Archer II aircraft, registration ZS-KFB, operated by Eagle Air Flight School, tragically crashed near KwaZulu-Natal, , resulting in the deaths of all three occupants. The aircraft had departed from Durban-Virginia Airport en route to Ladysmith Airport, but encountered difficulties during the flight. Alongside ZS-KFB was another aircraft, ZS-CZU, also on the same route. Both aircraft reportedly attempted to divert to Greytown after being unable to land at Ladysmith due to undisclosed reasons. While ZS-CZU managed a forced landing with substantial damage and minor injuries to its occupants, ZS-KFB was completely destroyed in the crash.

On June 11, 2025, former Edo State Governor and current Senator Adams Oshiomhole was accused of blocking the Zulu Terminal entrance at Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport after missing his 6:30 AM Air Peace Limited flight to Abuja. Eyewitnesses reported that he obstructed access to the departure area, disrupting passengers and staff until airport officials intervened. Air Peace condemned his actions as unruly conduct, stating that Oshiomhole had arrived late and attempted to delay the flight but was denied boarding. The airline has since called for an official investigation into the incident.

On Saturday, 14 June 2025, a Kenya Air Force Grob G-120A-K aircraft (registration KAF-718, MSN 85061) tragically crashed in Ndavaya, Kinango, , during a military training flight. The accident resulted in the deaths of both onboard pilots. The aircraft, powered by a Lycoming AEIO-540-D4D5 engine, was completely destroyed in the crash. The cause of the accident remains unknown at this stage, and no other fatalities were reported on the ground.

On Friday, 13 June 2025, a Sukhoi Su-24 operated by the Malian Armed Forces crash-landed into a river near Gao, during a combat mission. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but fortunately, both pilots ejected safely, and there were no fatalities reported. The incident occurred during an emergency landing, and the exact cause remains unclear.

From June 10–13, 2025, a five-member U.S. TSA team audited ’s major airports, starting at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The review assessed Nigeria’s compliance with global aviation security standards—crucial for maintaining direct U.S. flights. Focus areas included AVSEC staff training, access control, screening procedures, aircraft protection, and cybersecurity. The team also inspected Delta Air Lines and United Airlines operations. The audit was conducted in collaboration with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), reinforcing bilateral aviation ties.

Algeria is accelerating efforts in green aviation through sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development and renewable energy expansion. It aims for 15 GW capacity by 2030 and 30% renewable energy share by 2035. Key initiatives include SAF supply chain partnerships and the SoutH2 Corridor for exporting green hydrogen to Europe. These plans are backed by EU partners, IRENA, and policy reforms like a dedicated Ministry of Energy Transition and emissions reduction targets of up to 22% with international support.

ZESA Holdings has launched a certified Aviation Training Organisation (ATO) in Harare, marking a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s push to strengthen digital and energy infrastructure through drone technology. The ATO introduces a structured drone training programme focused on drone operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance, aimed at equipping Zimbabweans with the technical skills required for the emerging digital economy. The initiative aligns with the government’s Education 5.0 policy, emphasising innovation and industrialisation, and forms part of ZESA’s broader commitment to national development and technological self-reliance.

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