DRC: Government adopts recovery plan for Congo Airways SA

The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has recently approved an important plan concerning the renewal of the national airline, Congo Airways SA. During the 6th Council of Ministers meeting held on Friday, July 19, 2024, Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communications, and Infrastructure, Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, presented a detailed report outlining a series of measures to ensure the revival of the airline.

The Vice-Prime Minister introduced a five-year business plan that includes the acquisition of three A320 aircraft through leasing or purchase. This initiative aims to address two critical issues: the potential loss of the Air Transport Certificate (CTA) and IATA accreditation, with a deadline set for September 16, 2024.

Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo highlighted the current positive indicators for the company, despite operating only one leased aircraft with an expiring contract. He justified the revival of Congo Airways by its significant impact on national sovereignty, the mobility of people and goods, and the country’s economic and social life. Performance indicators show satisfactory profitability and viability, with a gradual service to 47 domestic and intra-African destinations following its operational program.

Congo Airways risks losing its Air Transport Certificate by September 16, 2024. During the 111th Council of Ministers meeting, President Félix Tshisekedi addressed the current state of air transport in the DRC. He noted a growing imbalance between the increasing demand for domestic traffic and a declining offer. The lack of international routes results in significant revenue losses due to the DRC’s underutilization of traffic rights.

To address this situation, President Félix Tshisekedi emphasized that the government’s response involves two main actions:

1. Revival of Congo Airways: Implementation of the emergency plan as adopted by the government.
2. Creation of Air Congo: Finalizing the project to establish a new airline in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, according to the decisions made during the 49th Council of Ministers meeting.

These measures aim to revitalize the aviation sector in the DRC by improving domestic and international transport capacity and strengthening the country’s position in the African and global aviation markets.

Trésor Obiang