Air transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a growing imbalance between increasing domestic traffic demand and precarious supply, as President Félix Tshisekedi highlighted during a meeting of the Council of Ministers. This situation calls for government action to consolidate companies in the sector.
The Head of State insisted on the relaunch of the activities of Congo Airways, the national airline, by implementing an emergency plan adopted by the government. He also mentioned the finalization of the project to create Air Congo in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines Group, in order to promote the development of air transport under optimal conditions of safety and security in the DRC.
Faced with the emergency, President Tshisekedi asked the Minister of Budget and the Minister of Finance to release the necessary funds to support the Congo Airways recovery plan. Furthermore, the government was tasked with paying particular attention to the implementation of the Air Congo project.
The President also underlined the importance of the operation of international lines by the DRC. Currently, foreign airlines benefit from a significant loss of revenue for the country. The DRC has more than 52 air agreements which guarantee its right to international traffic.
Thus, President Tshisekedi ordered the Minister of Transport and Communications to update the business plan and the timetable of activities for the launch of the Air Congo company.
The recognition of the air transport situation by the President of the Republic and his directives show the importance given to the sector and the government’s commitment to improving air transport conditions in the DRC. Hopefully, these measures will strengthen supply and meet the growing demand from domestic and international travelers.