Two months away from Air Congo’s launch in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), executives from Ethiopian Airlines met with Jean-Lucien Bussa, the Congolese Minister of Portfolio. During the meeting, held on October 3, discussed the project. They believe its success will depend on strong cooperation between both parties.

Air Congo is a mixed-economy company with a capital of $40 million, where the Congolese state holds a 51% stake and Ethiopian Airlines holds 49%. This partnership allows Ethiopian Airlines to strengthen its lead over competitors in the DRC, a country rich in natural resources essential for energy transition, with economic growth projected at 6.5% by 2025.

Unlike local private airlines like CAA, Ethiopian Airlines can leverage its extensive international network. The airline currently operates four direct flights to the DRC: two to Kinshasa, one to Lubumbashi, and one to Goma. Additionally, it partners with Asky, which runs two daily flights to Kinshasa from Lomé and South Africa.

With Air Congo's launch, Ethiopian Airlines could also leverage its connections with international organizations like the United Nations. The airline's experience would help meet some air transport needs for these groups, which are often served by private airlines or chartered planes.

First Aircraft Delivery Expected in November

Air Congo’s arrival is a key step toward better air service, especially as road infrastructure struggles to connect major cities effectively. "This project aims to strengthen national air connectivity, stimulate the economy, and marks a major strategic turning point after the suspension of Congo Airways," said the Ministry of Portfolio.

Congo Airways has been inactive since July 2024 due to a lack of operational aircraft. The airline has 90 days from September to renew its international IOSA certification, which is currently suspended. This situation has reduced air transport options in the country. Before the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated its financial issues, Congo Airways was carrying nearly 400,000 passengers annually, according to 2018 data.

Structurally, the Congolese State will appoint the deputy managing director and six directors for Air Congo, while Ethiopian Airlines will appoint the managing director and three other directors. For now, however, no detail has filtered on the investment strategy. 

Ethiopian Airlines has previously provided aircraft to other partners but it’s uncertain if this will happen with Air Congo. After last week’s meeting with Ethiopian Airlines executives, the Ministry of Portfolio announced that the first aircraft would be delivered in November but did not provide further details.

Georges Auréole Bamba