
African Pilot Magazine:
News

Focus on Africa Symposium Opened Professional and Government Affairs Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya
The IFALPA Professional and Government Affairs Meeting opened with the Focus on Africa Symposium in Nairobi, highlighting pilot advocacy, safety, and regulatory engagement across Africa’s aviation sector.

Cirium and AFRAA Data Partnership to Drive Growth in African Aviation
Cirium and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) have formed a strategic data partnership to enhance aviation analytics and support sustainable growth in Africa’s air transport sector, aligning with AFRAA’s 2025 strategy for improved connectivity, reduced costs, and digital transformation.
Public Input Invited on South Africa’s Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy
South Africa’s Department of Transport has released the Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy for public comment. The policy outlines the country’s aviation strategy on safety, infrastructure, economic regulation, transformation, and environmental goals, with submissions invited within 30 days.
New AfBAA Leadership Shares Plans to Revitalise African Business Aviation Organisation at EBACE 2025
The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) unveils a revitalised vision under new leadership. Chairperson Dawit Lemma and Vice Chair Craig Middleton share their strategy to expand membership, strengthen governance, and raise the profile of African business aviation at EBACE 2025.

Rescued Secretary Bird Flown to Safety in Easter Weekend Conservation Mission
A juvenile secretary bird rescued in the Karoo was flown to safety in Dullstroom by The Bateleurs in a coordinated Easter weekend conservation mission supporting the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Birds of Prey Programme.

Cirium and AFRAA Data Partnership to Drive Growth in African Aviation
Cirium and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) have formed a strategic data partnership to enhance aviation analytics and support sustainable growth in Africa’s air transport sector, aligning with AFRAA’s 2025 strategy for improved connectivity, reduced costs, and digital transformation.
Public Input Invited on South Africa’s Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy
South Africa’s Department of Transport has released the Draft Comprehensive Civil Aviation Policy for public comment. The policy outlines the country’s aviation strategy on safety, infrastructure, economic regulation, transformation, and environmental goals, with submissions invited within 30 days.
Aviation Africa 2025 highlights the future of Advanced Air Mobility
Aviation Africa 2025 will spotlight the continent's growing focus on advanced air mobility, featuring drones and eVTOL technologies, with dedicated discussions led by the African Drone Forum on regulation, investment, and real-world applications across key sectors.

Ghana’s Chip-Embedded Passport Rollout Begins
Ghana has officially launched its chip-embedded passport system, meeting ICAO standards with advanced security features, 24-hour service, e-tracking, and reduced application fees to modernise the passport process and enhance citizen experience.

How Digital Borders are Transforming Travel
Future-proof border control with digital transformation. Learn how biometrics, AI, and digital IDs create faster, safer travel. Powered by SITA.

International Aircraft Dealers Association Reports Strong Q1 Sales Amid Growing Market Caution
The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) reports a 24% year-on-year increase in aircraft sales for Q1 2025, with a cautious outlook due to economic uncertainty and tariff impacts. Explore key market insights, pricing trends, and dealer perspectives in the full IADA Market Report.

Aviation Africa 2025 highlights the future of Advanced Air Mobility
Aviation Africa 2025 will spotlight the continent's growing focus on advanced air mobility, featuring drones and eVTOL technologies, with dedicated discussions led by the African Drone Forum on regulation, investment, and real-world applications across key sectors.

Ghana’s Chip-Embedded Passport Rollout Begins
Ghana has officially launched its chip-embedded passport system, meeting ICAO standards with advanced security features, 24-hour service, e-tracking, and reduced application fees to modernise the passport process and enhance citizen experience.

The Stars Belong to Africa Too: African Space Agency Pushes for Space Sovereignty
The African Space Agency is driving Africa’s transition from a consumer to a producer of space technologies. Speaking at SIADE 2025, Dr Tidiane Ouattara highlighted space as a necessity for Africa’s security, economy, and innovation, calling for strategic investment and collaboration.

Aviation Industry Doubles Down on Cybersecurity as IT Spend Climbs to New Highs
SITA’s 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report highlights how airlines and airports are investing in cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainable IT to tackle digital threats, improve passenger experience, and move towards net-zero aviation. Discover key trends shaping the future of air travel.
African Union Summit Adopts Bold Strategies for Clean and Sustainable Energy and Transport Pathways
The 38th African Union Summit saw the adoption of groundbreaking strategies for sustainable energy and transport, including green hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuels, energy efficiency, and climate-smart infrastructure. These initiatives will drive Africa’s economic growth, climate resilience, and regional integration.

Delta Airlines Requests Flight Adjustments to South Africa for Peak Tourist Season
Delta Air Lines has requested adjustments to its flight schedules between the United States and South Africa to meet rising demand during peak tourist season. The airline aims to shift two weekly flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, increasing service to the city. This move comes as Cape Town grows in popularity among U.S. travellers.…

Vellox Group Unveils the Aviation Industry’s Most Unified Software Platform and Major Capital Investment
Vellox Group introduces the aviation industry’s most unified software platform, integrating market-leading solutions for fleet management, safety, dispatch, and operations. Backed by Arcadea Group with a $20M investment, Vellox is revolutionising aviation technology with long-term innovation and efficiency.
Nominations Open for 2025 IATA’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2025 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards, recognising individuals and organisations driving positive change in the aviation sector. You can learn more about award categories, the judging panel, and how to apply.
SAWS Aviation Website Back Online Following Last Month’s Cyberattack
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has restored its aviation website following last month’s cyberattack. Limited yet critical services – including international weather charts, wind charts, flight documentation, research products, and RADAR images – are now accessible, while functionality tests continue for other products.

Call for Proposals: Fund for Space Innovation (RASI)
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has launched the Research Accelerator Fund for Space Innovation (RASI) to drive research, innovation, and skills development in Space Science and Technology. Academics, HDIs, UoTs, and TVET colleges can apply for funding to advance space-related solutions.
GACA Enables New Era of Saudi Aviation with Brand and Digital Platforms Launch
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has launched Ajwaa, a new digital licensing platform aimed at streamlining regulatory processes for aviation professionals. Alongside its new brand identity, this initiative highlights GACA’s commitment to a technology-driven approach, supporting the growth of Saudi aviation in line with Vision 2030.

Aviation Safety Takes Centre Stage at URSAC Steering Committee Meeting in Dakar
The Ministry of Land Transport and Air Infrastructure met with the Steering Committee of the Regional Civil Aviation Safety and Supervision Unit to discuss enhancing aviation safety and security. Key topics included regulatory compliance, regional cooperation, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen civil aviation oversight.

Malawi Advances Air Transport Liberalisation with SAATM Commitment
Malawi strengthens its commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) as Honourable Nancy Tembo MP formally submits an Instrument of Acceptance to the African Union Commission, endorsed by President Lazarus Chakwera. Learn more about Malawi’s role in advancing air transport liberalisation in Africa.

Goodyear to Celebrate 100 Years of Airship Flying at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025
Goodyear is celebrating 100 years of airship flying at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, bringing two airships to the iconic aviation event. Discover the history of Goodyear blimps and their role in aviation innovation.

African Union Calls for Visa-Free Movement to Boost Regional Integration
The 38th African Union Summit spotlights the push for a visa-free Africa, with the AU and AfDB urging governments to remove travel restrictions. Leaders discuss how visa liberalisation can enhance regional integration, trade, and economic development, aligning with Agenda 2063’s vision of a borderless continent.

The Plane Factory is Making its Mark in the Aviation Industry
The Plane Factory is reshaping the aviation industry with its global presence in aircraft sales, leasing, training, and consultancy. With offices in South Africa, the USA, Mexico, and Brazil, the company provides end-to-end aviation solutions backed by decades of industry expertise.

HENSOLDT Achieves Order Intake of Over EUR 1.4 Billion Between October 2024 and January
HENSOLDT secured over €1.4 billion in orders between October 2024 and January 2025, strengthening its role in defence technology. Key contracts included the Eurofighter Mk1 radar, Leopard 2 A8 optronic systems, and Bundeswehr’s Electronic Warfare Centre modernisation.
