Tensions between the ruling junta in Bamako and Air France intensified this week, with the cancellation of the authorization granted to the airline to resume services to Mali. This decision follows the suspension of Air France flights to the country since August 7.
According to Malian authorities, the agreement between the airline and the government was concluded “without consulting the hierarchy”, which led to its cancellation. The director of civil aviation in Mali was also fired, although the exact details of the reasons were not communicated.
This situation highlights the political and security tensions currently reigning in Mali. Since 2020, the country has experienced a succession of military coups, leading to a deterioration in relations between France and the new Malian leaders. France, which is militarily engaged in the region as a former colonial power, was forced to repatriate part of its diplomatic staff and classify the capitals of the countries affected by the coups as “red zones”.
In this context, Air France has decided to suspend its flights to Mali, citing the geopolitical situation in the Sahel. However, this decision was poorly received by the Malian authorities who reacted by canceling the authorization granted to the airline to resume its flights.
This situation raises questions about the future of relations between Air France and Mali. While the company had initially announced the resumption of its flights from Friday, it now appears that this will not materialize.
It is important to emphasize that this situation has impacts on travelers and the Malian economy. The suspension of Air France flights deprives the country of an essential air connection and limits travel opportunities for people who rely on these flights for work or leisure.
It remains to be seen how this situation will evolve and whether solutions can be found to restore service to Mali by Air France. In the meantime, travelers and economic players in the country will have to deal with these disruptions in air travel.