Aviadev Insight

In this episode of AviaDev Insight Africa, host Jon Howell speaks with three inspirational AviaDev ambassadors—Mahek Shah, Usman Cisse, and Ellah Wafula about their experiences at the recent ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals event in Durban, August 2025. Supported by Airlink, these young aviators not only attended the event but also spoke to a global audience. They discuss their backgrounds, motivations, and key insights gained from the summit. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, structured pathways, and collaboration across generations to empower the future leaders of the African aviation industry. They also emphasize the role of social media in engaging and inspiring the next generation. The episode includes reflections on the impact and legacy of such events and calls for more structured support to bridge the gap for young aviation enthusiasts in Africa.  Connect with Ousman on LinkedIn Follow Ousman on TikTok Follow Ousman on Instagram Connect with Mahek on LinkedIn Foll

In this episode of AviaDev Insight Africa, Jon welcomes SAA's CCO, Tebogo Tsimane.  Together, they dive into SAA's upcoming 4th November route launch, Johannesburg to Gaborone, and explore the strategic and operational reasons behind this move. They then move into a discussion around  SAA's fleet expansion and modernization plans, including their partnership with Turkish carrier Sun Express and the expected launch of new long-haul and regional routes. Tebogo emphasizes the importance of densifying current markets and strengthening partnerships with travel agents. Connect/ Follow Tebogo

In this episode of Avia Dev Insight Africa, host Jon Howell, CEO and founder of AviaDev Africa, discusses the latest developments in communications and technology in African aviation with Yann Cabaret, CEO of SITA for Aircraft, and Martin Smillie, Senior Vice President, The Communications Services Business Unit The episode focuses on how targeted investments in technology can enhance operational efficiency, build resilience, and improve the bottom line for African airports and airlines. Connect/Follow Yann on LinkedIn Connect/ Follow Martin on LinkedIn

In this episode, host Jon Howell speaks with Miguel Carneiro, the Chief Commercial Officer of TAAG Angola Airlines.  The discussion covers TAAG's ambitious transformation over the past year, including the induction of new aircraft, new and reinstated routes, and the move to the new International airport. Miguel shares insights about the airline's recent fleet expansions, deploying Boeing 787 and A220 aircraft, and the importance of building a robust African network.  Follow/ Connect with Miguel on LinkedIn here

Join Jon Howell, Founder and CEO of AviaDev Africa, as he hosts a special video podcast from Lusaka at the Airlines Association of Southern Africa's Annual General Assembly. to watch the video, head to this link In this episode, Jon speaks with Keira Langford-Johnson, the Business Development Director at Proflight Zambia. They discuss exciting new route announcements, including Lusaka-Livingstone-Maun and Lusaka-Livingstone-Windhoek, the regulatory and developmental processes behind these routes, and the specific challenges and considerations in regional aviation route development. They also delve into the fleet specifics and future expansion plans of Prof Flight Zambia. This episode offers valuable insights for those interested in the African aviation industry, route development, and tourism connectivity. 01:03 Announcing the New Lusaka-Livingstone-Maun Route 02:18 The Route Development Process and role of AviaDev Africa 07:28 Discussing the Second Route: Lusaka-Livingstone-Windhoek 11:31 Fleet Expansion and

In this episode, we cover the latest route and fleet developments in African aviation. This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE   1 Min Deep Dive: New York to Africa Market  33 mins Turkish Airlines' Mega Order with Boeing  41 mins Ethiopian Airlines Schedule Updates 45 mins Malawi Airlines Fleet Expansion 47 mins TAAG's New 787 Delivery 49 mins United Nigeria's Fleet Acquisition  If you enjoyed the episode, please share, post and subscribe! 

In this episode, we cover the latest route and fleet developments in African aviation. Topics include the arrival of Embraer's E2 aircraft in the Airlink fleet and its strategic significance, the burgeoning route developments by Middle Eastern carriers into Nairobi, the operational changes at Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania's new routes to Accra and Lagos, and Etihad's planned seasonal entry into Zanzibar.  This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE  3 mins Airlink's New Embraer E2 Fleet 09:04 Speculations on Airlink's Route Expansion 27 mins Flydubai to launch Nairobi and a general discussion on GCC Carriers in East Africa 37 mins KQ's Existential Crisis and Strategic Challenges 40 mins KQ's New Route 42:14 Air Tanzania's New Route to Accra 49 mins Ethiopian Airlines' Dominance in Zanzibar as Etihad enters the market in 2026 64 mins RwandAir's Upgraded Mombasa-Zanzibar Flight 

In this episode, we discuss the challenges and objectives of aviation development in The Gambia, focusing on both regional and international connectivity, tourism, infrastructure, and policy developments. Haddy shares insights about The Gambia's efforts to improve connectivity and attract new routes, the importance of regional partnerships, and her vision for the future of Gambia's aviation landscape.  Connect with Haddy

Welcome to the September edition of the AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update for 2025, hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa. This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE  Topics covered this month: Ethiopian Airlines reporting a $1.05 Billion profit on $7.6 Billion revenue ADD-ABV going 10 weekly from 28OCT25 12th weekly TNR, reducing NOS from Jan-Mar, SEZ reduction Jan-Mar. 4th daily EBB  Group CEO Mesfin Tasew to retire in 2026 Rwandair report a $93m half-year loss KGL MBA ZNZ 3x weekly route launching in December 2025 An additional A330 coming from QR Tanzania's new taxes + mandatory insurance and the potential impact on demand Air Tanzania to launch Lagos from 13SEP25 3x weekly using a 737Max Uganda Airlines report a $76m loss for 2024-5 Kenya Airways report a loss of $94m for the first half of 2025 Qatar to launch a 3rd daily NBO, Lagos back to 14x weekly, JNB up to 18x, CPT 12x, upg

In this episode, I am joined by Andrew Lester, ACMI and Leasing Manager for India, the Middle East, and Africa at Chapman Freeborn Airchartering.  Together, we delve into the intricacies of ACMI (Aircraft Crew Maintenance and Insurance) leasing, comparing it to renting a tuxedo for event season, and discuss its strategic advantages for African airlines facing unique market challenges. The conversation covers the benefits, common misconceptions, and regulatory hurdles of ACMI leasing, while highlighting African success stories such as Lift and Uganda Airlines. Andrew emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and partnership to maximize profitability and meet seasonal demand, advocating for a broader acceptance and smarter implementation of ACMI as part of a fleet strategy in Africa. Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn Email Andrew:  Find out more about Chapman Freeborn here  ACMI Leasing & Aircraft Leasing Solutions Download the brochure:  Chapman Freeborn ACMI Leasing Solutions by Chapman Freeborn

Welcome to the July edition of the AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update for 2025, hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa. This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE  Topics covered this month: The latest in the FlySafair pilot strike saga Virgin increasing capacity on LHR-LOS from 26 October, deploying the 397 seater A350-1000. A good move or short term strategy? Qatar Airways reducing Nigeria frequencies in W25. Why? South African Airways' new route CPT-MRU and the fallout from the restated accounts FastJet Mozambique- the latest developments FastJet to launch a new domestic route from Vic Falls to Bulawayo from 8th August 4 x week DEEP DIVE: CDG-Africa route performance of ET vs KQ TAAG Angola to launch Nairobi 3 x week from 1st Sept. What is the outlook? Flightlink open a new service to Nairobi from Zanzibar - listen to the recent podcast with Munawer, the CEO here Air india suspend Na

In this episode, Date and I delve into the airline's growth and future ambitions. ASKY Airlines, now operating profitably for 15 years, boasts a fleet of 14 aircraft, connecting nearly 30 destinations across Africa. Date discusses recent network expansions, the airline's strategic focus on increasing flight frequencies, and the challenges and opportunities in African connectivity. The conversation also covers the transition to a uniform fleet, the high cost of operations in West and Central Africa, prospects of long-haul expansion, and potential infrastructure developments. The episode underscores ASKY's methodical approach to sustainable growth and market adaptation. Connect with Date here Download the AFRAA taxes and charges report here 

In this wide-ranging episode, we speak to Munawer Dhirani after the inauguration of Flighlink's new Zanzibar-Nairobi daily service, exploring why now is the right time to open the route.  Additionally, we discuss fleet and network expansion objectives, Munawer's origin story, and the whole concept behind Flightlink as an airline.  An inspirational story of resilience, enterprise, flexibility, and ultimately success.  Find out more about Flightlink www.flightlink.co.tz  To watch the sessions from AviaDev Africa, visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7pW7r3IP6ehOTKXB2cPE41eY8X2tBVNr&si=M-8jn4uhmPYsGPZh 

In this episode, I share the first episode of a podcast series I hosted and recorded back in 2021, entitled "The Fighter Pilot and the CEO" The focus of this particular episode is a conversation about whether leaders are born or made and the role of culture and education in forming effective leaders.  If you enjoyed it, you can listen to the full series on the podcast platform of your choice by searching "Fighter pilot and the CEO" or head here https://www.fighterpilotandceo.com/podcasts/  Representing the C-suite was Peter Davies, someone who brings over 40 years of boardroom and airline experience, having served as CEO of multiple airlines, including Brussels Airlines, Air Malta, and Caribbean Airlines, and now the Founder and CEO of Airline Management Group. Joining Peter on the flight deck was Andy Wright, a retired wing commander from the Royal Air Force.   

In this episode of Aviadev Insight Africa, I spoke with Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer of FlySafair, about the airline's innovative use of AI, particularly their new AI agent named Lindi. Together, we discuss the implications of AI in customer service, the incentives for customers to use Lindi, and the feedback received since its launch. The conversation also features a deep dive into the fleet standardisation challenges and the airline's regional expansion plans.

Welcome to the June edition of the AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update for 2025, hosted by Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa. This month's guests are:  Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE  Topics covered this month: The impact of the Trump travel ban on Africa's airlines, with a deep dive into Ethiopian Airlines' next moves in the market Kenya Airways and Qatar Airways announcement on 1st July and what it could mean, plus a brief discussion on the fleet and growth plan (more to come next month) Airlink's order of 10 E2-195s, which start to arrive from September. How will they be used now the airline has applied for Cape Town - Lagos and Accra, plus Johannesburg to Mauritius and Zanzibar. Air Cote d'Ivoire suspending routes to Casablanca and Johannesburg The impact of this on SAA who serve Abidjan Air Peace announcing new flights from Abuja to London Heathrow 4 x week from October. Will it work? Zambia Airways l

This session was recorded 11th June in Zanzibar.  In this session, industry leaders discuss the critical aspects of tourism and aviation policy integration within the African context. The panel reviews the vital role of private sector and government collaboration, and the importance of regional connectivity. Key points address the economic impact of improved air access, the challenges posed by protectionist policies, and the necessity for a data-driven approach. The discourse emphasizes actionable steps like fostering deeper cooperation between tourism bodies and aviation authorities and how better trade and infrastructure can elevate African tourism. Your moderator is Natalia Rosa, Tourism Project Lead, SADC Business Council Panellists: Hafsa H. Mbamba, Tourism Delivery Manager, Zanzibar Presidential Delivery Bureau (ZPDB) Rashid Toefy, Deputy Director General for Economic Development and Tourism, Western Cape Government

This session was recorded 11th June in Zanzibar.  This engaging session features real-life examples from Namibia, Madagascar, and Zambia. Moderated by Francis Doku, the discussion dives into how airlines, airports, and tourism boards can work together to overcome barriers such as high costs, regulatory challenges, and the lack of data-driven strategies. The panelists, representing different sectors, emphasize the need for shared data, trust, government support, and innovative marketing to create successful partnerships. They also highlight the significant impact of external support in orchestrating and sustaining these collaborative efforts. Your moderator is Francis Doku, CEO, Maestro Africa Group Panellists: Keira Langford-Johnson, Business Development Director, Proflight Zambia Charmaine Matheus, Namibia Tourism Board Minosoa Tatamo Rakotozafy, Head of Aeronautical Activities, Ravinala Airports 

This session was recorded on Thursday, 12th June, at the AviaDev Africa event in Zanzibar. Key topics include ownership models, market access barriers, regulatory challenges, and strategies to unlock capital and promote growth in the sector. Panelists share their perspectives on the significance of liberalizing the air transport market through initiatives like SAATM, the importance of risk management, and the critical need for investments in local talent and infrastructure. Despite diverse views, there is a consensus on the necessity for enhanced regulatory reforms and regional cooperation to foster a more competitive and thriving aviation industry in Africa.  Your moderator for this session is Hilka Birns and she was joined by: Helen Brume, Director, Projects & Asset Based Finance, Afreximbank Munawer Dhirani, CEO, Flightlink Julian Edmunds, Group Strategy & Development Director, Fastjet Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer, Ethiopian Airlines Peter Ulanga, Managing Director & CEO

This session was recorded on Friday, 13th June, at the AviaDev Africa event in Zanzibar.  The panel discuss innovative strategies for increasing revenue, enhancing passenger satisfaction, and leveraging real estate development around airports. Success stories from Zanzibar and Guinea exemplify effective modernization and operational efficiency while maintaining customer experience. Additionally, Murat Gun from Emirates Leisure Retail discusses their vision for Zanzibar's airport, focusing on creating an experience in tune with the island's vibe and local culture. The session concludes with a collaborative discussion on future growth and investments in airport infrastructure.  Your moderator for this session is Jody Appollis, Aviation Project Manager at NACO Airport Consultants and she was joined by: Namory Camara, Managing Director, SOGEAC Murat Gun, Managing Director, ELR UAE and Travel Retail Seif Juma, Director General, Zanzibar Airports Authority Oliver Mathwich, Chief Commercial Officer, Dnata D