Ethiopian Airlines Launches Air Congo: A New Era for African Aviation

2 weeks ago Editor

The creation of Air Congo is a strategic move by Ethiopian Airlines to tap into the growing demand for reliable air travel in Central Africa. With its experience in managing regional ventures, Ethiopian is positioning Air Congo to become a vital player in the region’s aviation sector, bridging gaps and boosting economic opportunities.

Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its presence in Africa with the launch of Air Congo, a new airline based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The carrier, co-owned with the Congolese government, marks a significant milestone in Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy to bolster its footprint across the African continent. Ethiopian will hold a 49% stake in the venture, with the DRC government holding the majority.

Set to begin operations in early December, Air Congo will start with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which have been leased from Ethiopian Airlines’ existing fleet. These aircraft are currently being painted with Air Congo’s new branding and are undergoing final preparations for the launch. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, acknowledged the challenges of starting a new airline, particularly in securing aircraft. “As a startup, it’s difficult to get planes. That’s why we’re taking two from our own fleet,” he said.

Initially, Air Congo will focus on domestic flights within the DRC, with plans to expand to regional destinations across Africa as operations ramp up. The airline aims to grow its fleet to six Boeing 737-800s within its first year, a clear strategy to support the increasing demand for air travel in a region that has been underserved by reliable air carriers.

The launch of Air Congo continues Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy of supporting regional carriers across Africa. Ethiopian’s earlier successes in joint ventures, such as ASKY Airlines in Togo, Zambia Airways, and Malawi Airlines, have set a blueprint for this latest venture. While Ethiopian Airlines had hoped to launch a similar operation in Nigeria earlier this year, those plans have been postponed.

By investing in the African aviation market, Ethiopian Airlines aims to provide safe and efficient air travel while supporting local economies. The launch of Air Congo is particularly significant for the DRC, a country where the aviation industry has historically faced challenges. With Ethiopian Airlines’ expertise and financial backing, Air Congo is poised to play a pivotal role in improving regional connectivity and fostering economic growth in Central Africa.