Can the government save Congo Airways?

Congo Airways, the national carrier of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is currently facing a bleak future as it grapples with financial turmoil and a shortage of aircraft. The airline, with a fleet of only six aircraft, is on the brink of suspension of operations, leaving the country's President, Felix Tshisekedi, to task the government with finding a lasting solution to the crisis. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Derek Nseko, the Founder of Airspace Africa, shed light on the challenges facing Congo Airways and the potential paths forward for the troubled airline. Nseko highlighted the critical need for swift and efficient solutions to address the immediate threat of operational suspension. One key issue hampering Congo Airways is the scarcity of fuel in the country, which has already forced the airline to consider dropping some routes. Additionally, management issues, including corruption and embezzlement allegations, have further complicated the situation. The government had previously explored partnerships with other airlines, such as a deal with VPN Airlines and attempts to attract Ethiopian Airlines to invest in a new national carrier, Air Congo. However, the management challenges plaguing these airlines call into question the feasibility of maintaining two national carriers. Nseko emphasized the need for a strategic and decisive approach by the government to address the systemic issues facing Congo Airways. He noted that while partnerships with established operators like Ethiopian Airlines could offer expertise and risk-sharing benefits, the long-term viability of multiple national carriers remains uncertain. The aviation industry in Africa has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with airlines struggling to recover as travel demand gradually returns to pre-pandemic levels. For Congo Airways, the urgency of securing additional aircraft and solidifying its operational capacity is paramount to avoid a complete collapse. As the government grapples with finding solutions for Congo Airways, the specter of a suspended national carrier looms large, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action and strategic planning to navigate the current crisis and ensure the sustainability of the country's aviation sector. In conclusion, the future of Congo Airways hangs in the balance as stakeholders weigh the options and make critical decisions that will shape the trajectory of the airline and the broader aviation landscape in the DRC.