DRC's Tshisekedi tasks PM with plan to save struggling national airline
The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has initiated a mission to develop a strategic plan aimed at revitalizing Congo Airways, the state-owned airline.
The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has initiated a mission to develop a strategic plan aimed at revitalizing Congo Airways, the state-owned airline.
Congo Airways, the national flag carrier, is currently experiencing financial challenges, maintenance-related disputes, and frequent suspensions of its flights. These issues have compelled the airline to adopt the costly short-term measure of leasing aircraft after its fleet was grounded for safety concerns.
Since commencing operations in 2015, Congo Airways has encountered several difficulties, including the grounding of two Airbus aircraft, high maintenance expenses, and safety issues. In 2021, the airline faced allegations of embezzlement related to over-invoicing while planning to expand its fleet with four new planes.
The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has initiated a mission to develop a strategic plan aimed at revitalizing Congo Airways, the state-owned airline.
A restructuring plan proposed early last year outlines the acquisition of three Airbus aircraft within five years, along with measures to reorganize governance. This plan depends on financial backing from public authorities, notably the government of the DRC.
A new management team was appointed in January 2025; however, progress has been delayed. President Tshisekedi has requested that the recovery strategy include detailed measures to enhance governance and reinforce discipline and accountability among the airline's executives.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
