Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s premier aviation group and a SKYTRAX-certified Four-Star Global Airline, has announced a strategic partnership with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government to launch Air Congo.
The newly established airline will operate with a 51% majority ownership by the DRC and a 49% stake held by Ethiopian Airlines, which will also oversee management operations.
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating: “The launch of Air Congo marks a key milestone in our strategic plan to collaborate with African governments and improve air transport across the continent.
This partnership will boost connectivity in the DRC and Central Africa, encouraging investment, trade, and tourism and fostering socio-economic growth in the region.
We appreciate the DRC government, stakeholders, and our dedicated colleagues’ unwavering support in making this initiative successful.”
Air Congo commenced operations with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, initially serving domestic routes and connecting seven major airports across the DRC.
The partnership encompasses agreements for aircraft leasing, technical support, and system integration.
Ethiopian Airlines will also provide comprehensive training for Congolese professionals, including pilots, cabin crew, technicians, and sales and service personnel.
This initiative aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 strategy, which aims to establish multiple hubs across Africa. The partnership follows Ethiopian’s successful ventures with ASKY Airlines in Lomé, Malawi Airlines in Lilongwe, and Zambia Airways in Lusaka, reinforcing its commitment to advancing air connectivity on the continent.
