DRC: Félix Tshisekedi Inaugurates Air Congo SA

The President of the Republic, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, inaugurated the first flight of the new Congolese airline, Air Congo SA, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

During his speech, Jean-Pierre Bemba, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communication Routes, and Landlocked Areas, highlighted Air Congo's ambitious growth plan.

“The new Air Congo fleet will expand in several stages. Currently, the airline has received two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which are before you today. Within six months, the company will add two more Boeing 737-800s, bringing the total to four aircraft. In less than a year, the fleet will include six Boeing 737-800s. By the second year, Air Congo plans to add two more Boeing 737-800s and a Boeing 787, making a total of 10 aircraft within two years,” he explained.

Air Congo is initially launching flights to major cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and plans to introduce international routes shortly.

“These additions will allow us to connect Kinshasa to key destinations, both domestic and international, including Johannesburg, Dubai, Paris, Brussels, Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Lomé, Abuja, Luanda, and many more,” said Bemba.

The Deputy Prime Minister also praised President Félix Tshisekedi for prioritizing air transport as a means to structure the Congolese economy and improve mobility for citizens and goods across the nation.

“Air Congo represents more than just a new airline; it is a vital step forward for the Congolese aviation sector. It addresses the need for efficient air traffic, which has so far been served by only two major national carriers and smaller operators with limited capabilities. We acknowledge and value the services these operators have provided over the years,” Bemba stated.

Given the DRC’s vast territory and population of 100 million, Bemba emphasized the necessity of multiple high-caliber airlines.

He further assured that Air Congo would adopt best practices in management, maintenance, and air safety, benefiting from collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines.

“This new airline will enhance the DRC's connectivity with the world, starting with the African continent,” he said.

Before concluding, Bemba called on all stakeholders to honor their commitments to ensure the sustainability of Air Congo. He urged the airline's staff to take responsibility for the success of this promising venture.