
African Pilot Magazine:
News

Jotron Supplies Full VHF Coverage for Angola’s Luanda FIR
Jotron has completed the installation of a nationwide VHF radio communication system for Angola’s Luanda FIR, enhancing aviation safety and modernising the country’s air navigation infrastructure under an ICAO and ENNA partnership.

KAHL and Lift Cargo Partner to Improve Efficiencies in Cool Chain Management
Kenya Airfreight Handling Limited (KAHL) and Lift Cargo Limited have partnered to enhance efficiencies in cool chain management, supporting Kenya’s horticulture exports with advanced temperature-controlled logistics and innovative supply chain solutions.

Air Cargo Demand up 5.8% in April
Global air cargo demand rose 5.8% YoY in April 2025, with strong growth in Asia and Latin America. IATA highlights key trends and trade route shifts.

Zambia Targets Lower Air Transport Costs to Boost Regional Aviation
Zambia is taking steps to reduce air transport costs and enhance its role as a regional logistics hub by lowering aviation fuel prices, expanding Fifth Freedom rights, and supporting SAATM objectives.
AERO South Africa and AfBAA Announce Partnership and Safety & Training Workshop
AERO South Africa 2025 and the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) partner to host a dedicated Safety and Training Workshop on 26 June at Lanseria International Airport, advancing safety and professional development in African aviation.

Aero South Africa 2025 – What the GA Pilot Missed
Aero SA 2025 brought together GA pilots, students, and enthusiasts at Lanseria, showcasing everything from diesel Cessnas to electric aircraft and local innovations.

Africa’s Next Flight: Modern Airline Retailing Unlocked
Discover how TPConnects and AFRAA are reshaping airline distribution in Africa through their latest whitepaper. Explore key insights on NDC adoption, digital transformation, and the future of modern airline retailing across the continent.

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.

South Africa: Transport Ministry Advances Sector Transformation with Integrated Charter and New Development Funds
South Africa’s Department of Transport is advancing sector-wide transformation through revised Transport Sector Codes, a new Enterprise and Supplier Development Fund, and targeted initiatives by SANRAL, PRASA, Transnet, and ACSA to promote inclusive growth and black economic participation.
Kenya’s Aviation Sector Records Steady Growth in 2024
Kenya’s aviation sector recorded steady growth in 2024, with increases in international passenger traffic, aircraft movements, aviation fuel demand, and licensing activity. The Economic Survey 2025 highlights the sector’s growing economic impact.
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.

Pretoria Airshow 2025: Airshow Adds “Gees” to the Fees
The Pretoria Fees is held annually over the Easter weekend at Legends Adventure Farm. This year, a touch of spirit and magic was added with the inclusion of a seriously well-planned and executed airshow. Saturday also featured the SAPFA Speed Rally, hosted by David le Roux from Pilot Insure. Overall, the show was a great…

Zambia Airports Corporation Limited Renews Trust in Thales with a 3-Year Agreement for Safer Skies
Zambia Airports Corporation Limited renews its partnership with Thales through a 3-year agreement to modernise and enhance the safety of Zambian skies. The contract covers ATC solutions, radar system maintenance, and airspace capacity improvements.

Battery Thermal Runaway Incidents on Board Passenger and Cargo Aircraft Hit Record High as Passengers Remain Largely Unaware of Risks
Battery thermal runaway incidents on passenger and cargo aircraft have reached a record high, according to ULSE's 2024 report. The rise underscores the risks of lithium-ion batteries onboard, with new strategies for passenger education, crew training, and aviation standards being explored to enhance safety.
New Kerosene Depot to Be Constructed at Zouérate Airport, Mauritania
Zouérate Airport may not be among the busiest airports, averaging just one flight per day. These flights typically involve small to medium-sized aircraft such as the Embraer ERJ-145, Embraer E-175, Boeing 737-500, Boeing 737-700, and Boeing 737-800. However, this scenario could soon change following the recent decision to issue a tender for the construction of…
Royal Canadian Air Force to Use PC-21 Next Generation Trainers in the Future
Discover how the Royal Canadian Air Force is set to modernise pilot training with 19 state-of-the-art PC-21 aircraft from Pilatus. Learn about the advanced, cost-effective training system supporting Canada’s Future Aircrew Training programme.

Wild Aviation Dream – Crocodiles Above the Clouds
The incredible story of a Pilatus PC-12 flying 16 young West African crocodiles from Geneva to Morocco, marking a groundbreaking conservation effort to reintroduce the species after a 60-year absence.

EASA Have Ordered Inspections for Loose Rivets on the Left and Right Pylon
EASA has issued an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Airbus AH EC 175 B helicopters after loose rivets and a crack were discovered on pylon reinforcement fittings, mandating regular inspections and repairs.
Turbotech, Safran and Air Liquide Validate Feasibility of Liquid Hydrogen-Fuelled Turbine for Light Aviation
Turbotech, Safran, and Air Liquide successfully ground tested the first liquid hydrogen-fueled turbine engine for light aviation, marking a major milestone in decarbonised aircraft propulsion under the BeautHyFuel project.

ATR’s Strategic Alliance with Ethiopian Airlines Group Moves Forward
Discover how ATR and Ethiopian Airlines Group are advancing ATR aircraft maintenance in Africa and the Middle East with a new Joint Comprehensive Action Plan, set to revolutionise regional aviation infrastructure and training.
Cirrus Celebrates 600 Vision Jet Deliveries
Cirrus Aircraft celebrates a major milestone with the delivery of its 600th Vision Jet on 23 December 2024. The Vision Jet combines advanced safety features, innovative technology, and seamless ownership solutions, redefining personal aviation standards. Learn more at cirrusaircraft.com.

Flight Data Recorders and Cockpit Voice Recorders: Leading the Way with Prime Avionics
Discover Prime Avionics' innovative Flight Data Recorders (FDRs) and Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVRs). With over 25 years of expertise, Prime Avionics delivers cost-effective, high-quality aviation recording solutions tailored to meet diverse client needs. Explore cutting-edge products, including the Micro Data Acquisition Unit (MDAU), seamless system integration, and industry-leading partnerships.

Ethiopian Airlines Partners with DRC Government to Launch Air Congo
Discover how Ethiopian Airlines and the Democratic Republic of Congo's government have partnered to launch Air Congo. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance air connectivity across Central Africa, boost investment, trade, and tourism, and train Congolese aviation professionals.

African Pilot Magazine Continues
As we approach the end of what has been a turbulent year, both for the industry and on a personal level, I am delighted to share some positive news. Despite the challenges faced, the year is ending on an uplifting note. I am immensely pleased to announce that the legacy of The African Pilot will continue. Please…

Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Zambian Presidency Launch Nationwide High-Resolution Aerial Geophysical Survey
Zambia’s latest mineral exploration initiative is set to transform the mining sector through advanced geological mapping. With support from President Hakainde Hichilema and industry leaders, this survey aims to drive investment, improve resource management, and uncover the nation’s mineral wealth.

Uganda Airlines Leases A320-200 to Boost Winter Operations
On 24 November 2024, Uganda Airlines announced the signing of a short-term lease agreement with Lithuanian carrier DAT, based in Karmelava, Lithuania. The lease of a 9.3-year-old Airbus A320-200 is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency during the winter schedule. The mid-range A320-200, acquired on a wet lease, will complement Uganda Airlines' existing fleet of CRJs…
Uganda Airlines Launches the Flight Path Sustainability Project to Enhance Aviation Safety and Environmental Stewardship
Uganda Airlines launches the Flight Path Sustainability Project to reduce bird strikes at Entebbe Airport by 40% through strategic waste management, protect Mabamba Bay wetlands, and empower Kigungu communities. The project aligns with Uganda’s COP29 climate goals.