- New Bilateral Agreement: Angola and Côte d’Ivoire have signed an open skies air services agreement, supporting the goals of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
- TAAG Route Expansion: TAAG Angola Airlines plans to launch a new Luanda–Abidjan route using Airbus A220 aircraft, with 312 annual flights projected.
- Commercial Viability: The route forecasts US$4.06 million in annual revenue from passenger and cargo operations, with strategic potential for West–Southern Africa and Brazil connectivity.
- Regional Hub Strategy: Angola is positioning Luanda as a regional aviation hub to drive intra-African mobility, economic diversification, and trade integration.
The Republic of Angola and the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire have signed a bilateral air services agreement aimed at strengthening air connectivity between the two countries and advancing the goals of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), as outlined in the Yamoussoukro Decision. The agreement was concluded on 24 June 2025 in Luanda.
Signed by Angola’s Minister of Transport, Ricardo Viegas D’Abreu, and Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Trade, Souleymane Diarrassouba, the agreement reflects a shared commitment to the liberalisation of air transport across Africa. It includes provisions for open skies with fifth freedom rights, removal of tariff restrictions, and enhanced technical and operational cooperation between the aeronautical authorities of both countries. This includes mutual recognition of ramp inspections and a focus on maintaining high standards of safety, operational efficiency, and predictability.
TAAG Plans New Luanda–Abidjan Route
As part of its broader network expansion, TAAG Angola Airlines has included the Luanda–Abidjan route in its strategic planning. The proposed route, currently in its final evaluation phase, is expected to be operated using Airbus A220 aircraft. The operation is projected to run 312 flights annually, with an average fare of US$179 and an estimated occupancy rate of 48%. Combined annual revenue from both passenger and air cargo services is forecast at approximately US$4.06 million.
Abidjan, as a major economic and financial centre in Francophone West Africa, offers strong potential for both direct and indirect air connections, including links to Southern Africa and Brazil. The development of cargo services and the optimisation of ancillary revenue streams are seen as key to reinforcing the long-term economic viability of the new route.
Strategic Aviation and Economic Integration
The agreement and route proposal form part of Angola’s wider strategy to enhance intra-African air connectivity, support tourism growth, and stimulate regional trade and investment. This is being pursued through the development of a competitive and modern civil aviation sector, backed by investment in infrastructure, technology, and human capital.
The Government of Angola aims to establish a robust regional air hub, leveraging its geographic position to serve as a connecting platform for travel across the African continent and beyond.
The bilateral agreement with Côte d’Ivoire contributes to the broader objective of fostering economic integration within Africa and represents a significant development in the continent’s efforts to implement liberalised, sustainable, and interconnected air transport systems.
