DRC / President Félix Tshisekedi takes his country to the skies with Air Congo: a new era for national mobility
President Félix Tshisekedi continues his ambitious vision of transforming the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into a key logistics hub in Africa. On Tuesday, at N’djili International Airport, he inaugurated the new national airline, Air Congo.
A strategic joint venture between the DRC (51%) and Ethiopian Airlines (49%), this initiative represents a pivotal moment in the modernization of the country’s air transport sector. Air Congo’s launch includes two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which will serve key cities such as Lubumbashi, Goma, Kisangani, Kolwezi, Kalemie, and Mbuji-Mayi, addressing the crucial need for inter-provincial mobility and connectivity.
During the ceremony, Jean-Pierre Bemba, Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, announced a phased fleet expansion, with six new aircraft expected to join in the next two years. This growth aims to ensure regular, safe, and punctual flights while promoting the training of crew members and improving airport infrastructure. The management team of Air Congo emphasized the benefits of this partnership, from improved management practices to the introduction of international best practices.
The CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, a key partner in the project, praised President Tshisekedi’s vision, noting that similar collaborations have already proven effective in countries like Togo and Malawi. With the launch of Air Congo, President Félix Tshisekedi once again demonstrates his commitment to positioning the DRC as a central player in African aviation and a model for logistical integration that benefits its citizens.
