ch-aviation
• Hilka Birns
Washington is seeking a major role in Ethiopia’s planned $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport, reportedly tying U.S. participation in the project to Ethiopian Airlines’ purchase of additional Boeing aircraft. The linkage could shape the airport’s financing, industrial partnerships and the carrier’s future fleet strategy.
Africa
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Washington is seeking a major role in Ethiopia’s planned $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport, reportedly tying U.S. participation in the project to Ethiopian Airlines’ purchase of additional Boeing aircraft. The linkage could shape the airport’s financing, industrial partnerships and the carrier’s future fleet strategy.
Uganda Airlines has accumulated $24.5 million in obligations to the country’s aviation authority, highlighting a significant financial exposure for the state-owned carrier and its regulator. The reported debt raises questions about the airline’s financial position and the potential implications for its ongoing operations.
Qatar Airways has secured regulatory approval to establish a branch in Libya, moving the Doha-based carrier closer to resuming flights from the country. The approval clears a key step toward restarting operations, although the airline has not disclosed a launch date or specific routes.
Kenya is weighing a restructuring of Kenya Airways’ debt as it seeks to attract an investor for the national carrier. The move signals that resolving the airline’s financial obligations is a central prerequisite to making KQ more viable for potential strategic or financial partners.
China Southern will enter the Ethiopian market on Oct. 12, 2026, with twice-weekly Boeing 787-9 services from Guangzhou to Addis Ababa via Changsha. The route expands the carrier’s Africa network and creates a new China–Ethiopia connection through its central China gateway.
Cabo Verde’s government is weighing “all options” for Cabo Verde Airlines, a decision that could reshape the carrier’s ownership and operating model. The review indicates the state is considering restructuring pathways to address the airline’s future.
The Maldives and Ethiopia have signed a bilateral air services agreement, paving the way for direct air connectivity between the two countries. Under the deal, Ethiopian Airlines will gain fifth-freedom access to carry traffic via the Maldives, according to Ethiopia’s Civil Aviation Authority.
Poland’s first Italy-built F-35A—part of a 32-jet program—has completed its maiden test flight as deliveries continue. In parallel, Nigeria’s air force has completed factory acceptance tests on the first batch of three Leonardo M-346FAs at Venegono, Italy, after earlier delivery timing expected in 2025.
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