Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest aviation group and a member of Star Alliance, has announced a partnership with the Government of the Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the establishment of Air Congo.
In this new partnership, Air Congo joins the Ethiopian Airlines team of existing partnerships with ASKY Airlines in Lomé, Malawi Airlines in Lilongwe and Zambia Airways in Lusaka.
This initiative aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ vision 2035 strategy which aims to establish multiple hubs across Africa.
The DRC government is expected to hold a 51% majority stake, while Ethiopian Airlines will retain 49% share, and manage the airline.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said the launch of Air Congo is a significant step in the continental carrier’s strategic plan to collaborate with African governments and enhance air transport across the continent.
“This partnership will provide greater connectivity for the DRC and Central Africa, facilitating investment, trade, and tourism, thereby contributing to socio-economic growth of the region,” he said.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the DRC government, all stakeholders, and my esteemed colleagues for their commitment and collaboration in making this partnership a success.”
Air Congo’s operations began with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, serving domestic markets, starting with seven airports within the DRC.
Ethiopian Airlines said in a statement that key technical agreements, including aircraft lease, comprehensive technical support, and systems support agreements which have been signed between the two partners.
Ethiopian Airlines is also expected to train Congolese nationals as pilots, cabin crew, sales and services staff, and technicians.
Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan, Vision 2035, that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world.
Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900, Airbus A350-1000 and De Havilland Q400.
Operating in more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents, the airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.
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