Congo Airways has begun a recruitment drive two weeks after taking delivery of an aircraft, the first of three acquired by the National Social Security Fund (CNSS), which holds a 31% stake in the airline.

Since Jan. 7, 2025, the carrier has posted three job ads seeking nine captains, nine first officers and four maintenance technicians. The pilots will be on probation for six months, while technicians will serve a three-month probation period, according to the notices.

The hires appear set to form the core crew to operate the new fleet now being assembled, and may also point to staff turnover. After suspending flights for around 10 months, Congo Airways has accumulated more than 10 months of unpaid wages, staff representatives said.

Meanwhile, the airline is also working to return an Airbus A320 to service after it was grounded by engine problems. In February 2025, it received approval from the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ARMP) to award a contract directly to FAI Aviation to buy two CFM56-5B5/3 engines, plus spare parts, for $12.33 million, according to an ARMP document.

So far, Congo Airways has not announced when it will restart flights or which destinations it will serve, though media reports say operations could resume in early 2026.

Timothée Manoke