Air France is revolutionising its onboard WiFi service. From 2025 onwards, the airline will progressively roll-out an ultra-high-speed connectivity service for a ‘ground-like’ experience. This new service, completely free-of-charge in all travel cabins, will be accessible to customers by logging into their Flying Blue account. Over time, this WiFi service will be made available onboard all the airline’s aircraft, replacing the current offer.
Air France has chosen Starlink for high-speed, low-latency connectivity. During their flight, customers will be able to stay in touch with friends and family, follow all the world’s news live, play video games online, and stream TV, films, and series. The service will be accessible from smartphones, digital tablets, and laptops, and each customer will be able to connect several devices simultaneously.
Customers will be able to access the service by logging into their Flying Blue account, the Air France-KLM Group’s loyalty program. Those who do not yet have a Flying Blue account can create one free-of-charge onboard and in just a few clicks.
As of the summer 2025 season, Air France will gradually equip all its aircraft with this cutting-edge technology, including its regional fleet. During this transitional period, the airline will continue to offer a connectivity service onboard aircraft that are not yet equipped, including a free ‘Message Pass’ for Flying Blue members and a paid offer that covers other needs.
Ben Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, will talk exclusively at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. He will share insights on the airline’s future plans and strategies for continued growth.
Kenya Airways partners with African airlines to revolutionize intra-continental travel, delivering monumental savings and enhancing air travel accessibility across Africa.
Kenya Airways Ltd., commonly referred to as Kenya Airways, serves as the national airline and flag carrier of Kenya. Established in 1977 following the dissolution of East African Airways, the airline has its main headquarters in Embakasi, Nairobi. Its primary hub is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, facilitating both domestic and international operations.
Kenya Airways has voiced its support for the consolidation of African airlines, emphasizing that such a move could significantly reduce the cost of air travel within the continent. The airline’s CEO, Allan Kilavuka, highlighted the potential financial benefits of merging national carriers, especially for African countries that struggle to maintain a profitable fleet size. According to Kilavuka, a fleet of at least 50 aircraft is necessary for commercial airlines to achieve sustainable profitability, a target many African carriers find difficult to reach.
By merging, African countries could create regional aviation hubs, streamline operations, and eliminate redundant costs. These savings could then be passed on to passengers, making air travel more affordable and accessible within Africa.
Kilavuka also pointed out that the slow progress in implementing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which was introduced in 2018 to liberalize air travel across the continent, has negatively impacted seat occupancy rates for national airlines. He believes that accelerating the adoption of this initiative would further enhance the viability of African carriers and increase the demand for air travel across the region.
On 13th September 2024, Kenya Airways successfully operated its first flight fully staffed by accredited crew under the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Flight KQ554 from Nairobi to Kinshasa, today, marked this significant milestone for the airline, joining a select group of African carriers that have achieved this prestigious certification.
The crew are part of a 71 Kenya Airways personnel who have completed rigorous training to obtain the EASA Attestation Certificate, demonstrating their proficiency in managing safety and service functions on European registered aircraft.
“We are proud to have a significant portion of our cabin crew successfully complete the EASA training program, demonstrating their proficiency in meeting the rigorous requirements of this internationally respected certification,” the Chief Operating Officer, George Kamal, stated. “This accomplishment exemplifies Kenya Airways’ leadership in the African aviation industry and our preparedness to match international standards.”
The EASA Certification equips the KQ team to effectively manage safety and service operations on European registered aircraft during ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations. This reinforces the airline’s commitment to providing world-class aviation services and adhering to the highest international safety standards. “This milestone places our cabin crew in an advantageous position, benchmarked against global standards, and showcases our operational excellence,” notes Pauline Kihara, Head of In-Flight Services and Catering. “By aligning with one of the best regulatory frameworks in the world, we not only enhance the capabilities of our cabin crew but also strengthen the confidence of our passengers in the safety and quality of our services.”
The addition of EASA certification marks a new chapter in the history of Kenya Airways as the airline continues to strive to meet and exceed global standards. It also highlights the airline’s success in aligning ACMI operations with its regulations and standardizing cabin services. EASA compliance reaffirms Kenya Airways’ longstanding commitment to passenger safety and solidifies its position as a leading and innovative airline on the global stage.
The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) is delighted to announce a courtesy visit from the Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia X Mr. Benyamin Ismail and the Group Chief Commercial Officer of AirAsia Group Mr. Paul Carroll. The high-level delegation met with KATA board members to discuss the recent opening of AirAsia’s inaugural sales office in Africa, the upcoming inaugural flight to Nairobi on November 15, and the exciting opportunities available for travel agents to partner with the airline.
During the meeting, AirAsia executives expressed their enthusiasm for the African market and highlighted the potential for significant growth in the coming years. They emphasized the airline’s commitment to providing affordable fares and exceptional customer service, making it an attractive option for both leisure and business travelers.
KATA board of directors welcomed AirAsia’s expansion into Africa and expressed their support for the airline’s initiatives. They discussed the potential benefits of partnering with AirAsia, including increased revenue streams, access to new markets, and opportunities for professional development.
The meeting also focused on the support that travel agents can provide to AirAsia in promoting its services and attracting customers. KATA pledged its commitment to working closely with the airline to ensure a successful launch and ongoing partnership.
As AirAsia prepares for its inaugural flight to Nairobi, the airline’s presence in Africa is expected to have a significant impact on the continent’s tourism industry. With its affordable fares and extensive network, AirAsia is poised to become a major player in the African aviation market.
We see potential in this partnership and believe AirAsia‘s entry into the Kenyan market will create opportunities for our members, including new revenue streams and professional development, opening access to 150 underserved destinations and enhance connectivity. Air Asia will operate 4 flights a week and target 150,000 passengers annually. Others present were Allenie Caccam Business Growth Head and Siew Lee Group Head of Sales and Distribution.
Ethiopian Aviation University calls for international applicants for a cabin crew training program.
Our Basic Cabin Crew Training provides the perfect foundation, where training will be provided on airplane mock-up devices by expert instructors with an emphasis on safety and customer service. Get ready to take off for an exciting journey through the skies! Begin your aviation journey today!
Ethiopian Aviation Academy (EAA) is the largest and most modern aviation academy in Africa recognized as ICAO Regional Training Center of Excellence. To train aviation professionals from classrooms to full flight simulator training, EAA offers leading industry standard training for pilots, aircraft technicians, cabin attendants and ground services staff both for initial and recurrent students. The Leadership & Career Development Center is also training thousands in Management and Leadership Skills.
Our cabin crew training simulates real-time scenarios with training aircraft designed for emergency drills and service trainings. Our pilot training school uses light aircraft for its basic training with dedicated simulators. Full flight simulators of all fleets Ethiopian operates are available for flight training. Virtual Maintenance Trainers (VMTs) and various workshops feature our aircraft maintenance training. Beyond these, our academy develops standard training packages including e-learning and virtual classroom trainings. Trainee services include a trainee’s cafeteria, dormitories, an administration complex and a plush new auditorium. The academy plans to take in 4,000 students a year in its training programs.
In line with the rapid growth of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Ethiopian Aviation Academy has been upgraded to Ethiopian Aviation University, which will enable it to provide a broader range of educational programs and increase the level of expertise in the Aviation Industry. The University has been accredited by the Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency (HERQA), to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.
Ethiopian Aviation University has been accredited by Ethiopian Higher Education Relevance and Quality Agency to offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various aviation and hospitality fields.
Currently, the University offers various aviation courses such as BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Aviation Management & Operations, BA in Tourism & Hospitality Management, MSc in Data Science, MBA in Aviation Management. The University also offers Diploma and Certificate Programs in Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Pilot Training, Cabin Crew and Commercial Training, Leadership & Career Development, Catering Training in addition to ICAO and Online Courses. Ethiopian also owns training facilities in other regional cities of the country including in Hawassa, Dire-Dawa, Bahir-Dar and Mekelle.
Link to website https://corporate.ethiopianairlines.com/eaa
About Ethiopian
Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is one of the fastest-growing airlines brand globally and the continent’s largest airline brand. In its seventy-eight years of successful operations, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet category consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900 and De Havilland Q400.
Ethiopian is also pursuing multi-hub strategy through hubs in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe, Malawi with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka, Zambia with Zambia Airways. Having achieved its strategic plan (Vision 2025) ahead of time, Ethiopian is currently implementing a 15-year strategic plan Vision 2035 that will see it become one of the top 20 most competitive and leading aviation groups in the world. Ethiopian has been champion in various coveted awards including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award’ for seven consecutive years among others. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and has been registering more than threefold growth in the past 10 years.
For more at: www.ethiopianairlines.com
Contact us on nbores@ethiopianairlines.com/nbocto@ethiopianairlines.com
Qantas has made history with the launch of its inaugural Airbus A380 flight (QF63) between Sydney and Johannesburg, marking the first time the Superjumbo (VH-OQH today) has operated between Australia and Africa. The new route will run up to six times per week, adding 130,000 seats annually and reintroducing First Class and an expanded Premium Economy offering. The A380 also features an upper deck lounge for First and Business passengers.
In addition to the capacity boost, Qantas has announced a codeshare partnership with Johannesburg-based Airlink, offering seamless connections to nine South African destinations, including Cape Town and Durban, with plans to expand further into southern Africa.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace highlighted the airline’s long history of flying to South Africa and emphasised the importance of the additional capacity and enhanced connectivity for tourism, business, and trade between the two continents. Fares for the new flights and codeshare connections are available for booking now, with travel beginning in late October 2024.
Experience a new level of luxury when you fly to Dubai or Democratic Republic of Congo on the Airbus A330. Synonymous with comfort, relaxation and class, the Airbus A 330-300 is perfect for anyone looking for enhanced comfort as they travel. Guests can also enjoy our newly upgraded In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) selection featuring movies, shows and games. Kenya Airways has deployed this luxurious aircraft on the daily flights to and from Dubai as well as to Kinshasa, five times a week. It has a capacity of 46 business class flatbed seats for those who prefer tranquility and luxury and 203 economy class seats. The wide body provides ample space for belly cargo as well as overhead space.
Enjoy elevated comfort on your next flight to Dubai or Kinshasa with the Airbus A330-300.
Uganda Airlines is set to launch flights between Entebbe and Harare on 25 September, aiming to boost bilateral trade and tourism between Uganda and Zimbabwe. Chief Commercial Officer Adedayo Olawuyi highlighted the potential for increased trade and tourism, citing the lack of direct air links between the two countries. The airline will initially operate four flights covering Entebbe, Lusaka, and Harare.
The airline plans to expand its services to include Lusaka, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls, tapping into the high-traffic routes between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This move is part of Uganda Airlines’ broader strategy to grow its regional network.
Uganda Airlines also intends to transport cargo, capitalising on the volume of goods traded between the destinations. The carrier hopes to break even within 18 months of launching the new routes.
This expansion comes as Zimbabwe attracts over 20 foreign airlines, thanks to its growing economy, tourism sector, and open skies policy. Uganda Airlines plans to extend its reach to China and London by year-end.
ASKY Airlines has announced the resumption of flights to Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, starting from October 2, 2024. After a multi-year suspension, the airline is set to restore this strategic route, underscoring its dedication to bolstering economic growth across Africa and enhancing connectivity between communities on the continent.
Commitment to Economic Development and Connectivity
The reopening of Pointe-Noire aligns with ASKY’s vision to promote economic and social development in Africa by providing efficient and reliable air transport solutions. This new route will facilitate trade, business opportunities, and interpersonal relationships between countries, thereby strengthening regional integration.
With the addition of Pointe-Noire, ASKY Airlines expands its network to 29 destinations in West and Central Africa. Flights will be operated three times a week via Luanda Airport (LAD), offering increased connectivity and flexible travel options for our passengers.
Flight Schedules and Frequencies
Flights to Pointe-Noire will be operated three times per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) with departure from Lome at 13:00pm for arrival in Pointe-Noire at 19:30pm. The return flights are scheduled on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday to depart from Pointe-Noire at 07:10am for arrival in Lome at 11:40am. All times are in local time.
These schedules are designed to offer optimal connections with other ASKY destinations, thus facilitating travel across the continent.
Book Now
ASKY invites passengers to book their tickets now to discover or rediscover Pointe-Noire, a dynamic and growing city. Enjoy our superior service and our commitment to your comfort and safety. For more information and to book your tickets, please visit our website at www.flyasky.com or contact our local offices.
What does South Africa have in common with Kenya? Beautiful beaches, wildlife safaris, buzzing business hubs, unique cultures and stunning tourist attractions. If you are looking for a convenient way to travel to South Africa, then Kenya Airways is your answer. Whether you are a group of friends or a family who want to explore there’s something for you to discover in South Africa.
If you are businessman or are travelling for a work assignment, you have multiple options to choose from the available flights. Kenya Airways has 37 weekly flights to Africa that are conveniently timed to fit in with your schedule.
That’s not it, Kenya Airways flies to two points in South Africa which makes it even more convenient depending on which part of South Africa you want to explore. You can either choose to go to Johannesburg where KQ flies 28 times weekly or Cape Town where KQ flies 9 times weekly.
If you want to explore Southern Africa, KQ also connects the South further by providing service between Cape Town and Victoria Falls with 3 weekly flights and Cape Town to Livingston, 3 times weekly.
With competitive fares coupled with our comfortable aircrafts and African hospitality, Kenya Airways is indeed your airline of choice as you explore the South.
