In a landmark development for African aviation, Ethiopian Airlines has officially inaugurated a major expansion of its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) complex at Bole International Airport, positioning itself as the continent’s leading aircraft maintenance hub.

The $150 million investment, executed in partnership with Chinese infrastructure giant China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), includes several state-of-the-art facilities: a widebody aircraft hangar, a high-tech component maintenance center, and a fully automated aircraft parts warehouse.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew emphasized that the new infrastructure significantly boosts the airline’s capabilities. “With these new facilities, our airframe maintenance capacity increases by 50%. We are now not only able to support our growing fleet but also serve the needs of other African and Middle Eastern carriers,” he noted during the launch ceremony.

Certified to Global Standards

The expanded complex is certified by both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), reinforcing its status as a world-class facility. Ethiopian Airlines now operates Africa’s most comprehensive MRO center, capable of servicing multiple aircraft types from across the region.

Strategic Vision for the Continent

“This MRO facility is the largest in Africa because we operate the biggest fleet on the continent,” Tasew added. “This milestone is the result of consistent investment in infrastructure and talent.”

Ethiopian Airlines has long been a regional leader in aircraft maintenance services, already serving clients across Africa. The new facilities are expected to boost capacity further and generate substantial revenue through expanded third-party services.

Pioneering Technology and Engineering Excellence

The engineering challenge behind the construction was considerable. CCCC used cutting-edge techniques and introduced advanced technologies, including 5G-controlled remote lifting systems, for the first time in Ethiopia to assemble the massive steel structures.

“For the two-bay hangar, the steel structure span is approximately 90 meters, and the mass head about 31 meters,” said a CCCC engineer. “We employed first-of-its-kind nuclear and 5G tech to lift and assemble it in one go, an engineering first for the country.”

A Symbol of African Self-Reliance

The expansion of Ethiopia’s MRO complex is more than a national accomplishment. It represents a bold step toward African aviation self-reliance, reducing dependency on overseas maintenance and underscoring Ethiopia’s growing influence in global aviation.

With enhanced infrastructure, skilled local labor, and an ambitious continental outlook, Ethiopian Airlines is not just flying higher; it is helping Africa maintain and control its skies with renewed confidence.

Source: CGTN Africa

The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has called for public input for the upcoming future development plan of the Wilson Airport and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)

In a notice on Sunday, July 20, the authority said that it will conduct a Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA), which will assess the environmental and social impacts that the development, which it did not specify, of the two airports might attract.

According to the authority, the assessment, which will be spearheaded by two consultancy firms: Dar Al Handasah Consultants and Geodev (K) Ltd, will be done in line with the guidelines of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999.

According to KAA, the future development of the two critical transport infrastructures will be essential in boosting the economy and enhancing service delivery.

“The SESA process requires broad stakeholder engagement, involving neighboring communities, organizations, and individuals who may be affected by, or have an interest in, the planning and future operations of the two airports,” KAA stated.

“The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is developing the Integrated Master Plans for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport (WAP) to guide future developments and enhance service delivery,” it added.

For Wilson Airport, according to the authority, public participation in the upcoming plans will be conducted from Monday, 21, 23, and 28 July, in Nairobi West, South C, and Langata Mugumoini.

On the other hand, for the JKIA, the exercise will be conducted on 22, 24, and 25 July, in Syokimau, Embakasi, and Utawala. During the exercises, residents of these areas will be informed about the master plans to expand the two facilities and also share their input, views, and concerns.

“Your participation will help shape the future of these airports and ensure that community issues are well understood and taken into account. Your participation and engagement will be highly appreciated,” KAA stated.

The announcement comes days after the authority revealed that it is in the process of improving JKIA’s infrastructure, including runways, airside access roads, and the baggage handling system.

According to KAA Board Chairman Caleb Kositany, during a meeting with senior officials from ground handling agents (GHAs) on Wednesday, July 9, the rehabilitation and improvement of the airport will be critical in elevating operations at the airport.

The Key reforms are designed to transform the airport into a modern facility that is competitive on the global stage.

Source: Kenyans.co.ke

TAAG Angola Airlines has announced the launch of a new Luanda–Nairobi route, with commercial passenger services set to begin on September 1. The airline will operate three weekly flights using its modern Airbus A220-300 aircraft, further enhancing connectivity between Southern and Eastern Africa.

In a statement cited by Portuguese news outlet Publituris, TAAG described Nairobi as “a vibrant African capital where wild nature meets modern culture.” The Kenyan capital is widely regarded as a key regional hub and a critical transit point linking Africa to Asia and Europe. Kenya itself is one of the continent’s most dynamic economies, making this new route a strategic addition to TAAG’s growing network.

The airline emphasized that this expansion will boost mobility options for travelers, support bilateral trade, and strengthen diplomatic ties between Angola and East Africa.

This development follows the successful launch of TAAG’s weekly cargo service between Luanda and Nairobi, which began on April 30, 2025. Operated every Wednesday, the freighter route primarily handles flowers and perishables, capitalizing on Kenya’s position as one of the world’s largest flower exporters. With a cargo capacity of up to 18,000 kilograms per flight, the route is expected to transport as much as two million kilograms annually.

Beyond Nairobi, TAAG is also expanding its regional footprint with plans to introduce passenger flights to Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo and Libreville, Gabon. This follows a successful technical audit by Gabon’s civil aviation authority (ANAC Gabon), conducted in Luanda from June 9 to 13, 2025. As part of the audit, a TAAG Boeing 737 (registration D2-TBW) underwent a comprehensive review to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.

TAAG has identified Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, as another potential destination, although a formal launch date has not yet been announced.

A220 Fleet Expansion

Meanwhile, TAAG’s fleet modernization strategy continues to gain momentum. In June 2025, the airline welcomed its third Airbus A220-300, registered D2-TAI. The aircraft arrived in Luanda from Montreal, with a technical stop in Faro, Portugal. This delivery is part of TAAG’s 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, which aims to enhance regional connectivity and improve operational efficiency.

Earlier aircraft deliveries include D2-TAF (MSN 55334) received in March 2025, and D2-TAA delivered in September 2024. All aircraft are configured with 137 seats—12 in business class and 125 in economy—and are powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines. These engines deliver a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions per seat compared to older models.

TAAG’s A220s are being sourced through leasing agreements with four major lessors: Air Lease Corporation (6 aircraft), Aviation Capital Group (4), Azorra (3), and Nordic Aviation Capital (2). While initial deliveries were scheduled for early 2024, the timeline was adjusted, with ongoing deliveries continuing through 2027.

Source: Airlinegeeks.com

Like other regions, North African aviation is undergoing a transformative phase driven by strategic innovation in fleet expansion, world-class pilot training, and technological self-reliance. Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are leveraging aviation infrastructure investments to enhance regional connectivity and establish themselves as continental aviation powerhouses, capitalising on robust growth in air traffic demand.

Algerian fleet expansion

Air Algierie is expanding its fleet to meet rising local travel demand. The nation’s flag carrier plans to launch a domestic airline which is wholly owned by the state, supporting the initiative with the acquisition of 16 aircraft and the leasing of eight others, comprised of Boeing and Airbus models. This fleet expansion is funded by the National Investment Fund who hope the initiative will accomplish the projected 50% increase in air traffic. This reinforces Algeria’s position in North African aviation, enhancing connectivity (particularly in southern regions), and supporting ambitious aviation goals set out by the nation.

World-class pilot training in Morocco

Morocco’s aviation sector is partaking in a strategic partnership between Airways Aviation and Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA) , with hopes to deliver world-class pilot training. This collaboration offers a modular, EASA-certified program that combines initial training at Ben Slimane Airport with the opportunity for advanced specialisations in Europe. The modern facilities they are equipped with position MAPA to adequately meet the country’s growing demand for well-qualified and well-trained pilots. This partnership, aligned with the expansion of Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc, is in line with Morocco’s emerging station as a local hub, bolstered further by significant state investment in aviation.

Technological self-reliance in Egypt

Egypt is advancing its aviation capabilities through a cooperation protocol signed between the Egyptian Aviation Academy and the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation. This agreement focuses on developing advanced flight simulators and intelligent training systems that meet international standards. By prioritising technological self-reliance, Egypt aims to reduce reliance on imported equipment and position itself as a premier hub for aviation training in the Middle East and Africa. The Egyptian Aviation Academy, complemented by EgyptAir Training Academy’s recent EASA Level D certification for its A330/A340 simulator, strengthens Egypt’s ability to advance pilot training and safety standards.

These developments reflect a concerted effort across North Africa to drive aviation growth and ride the wave of skyrocketing air travel demand experienced in the region. By investing in aviation infrastructure and training, Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are solidifying their role as regional players, poised now to better meet their growing air travel needs and compete on a global stage.

Source: Travel Radar

The striking 82-storey tower of Ciel Dubai will house 1,004 rooms. Although its construction is yet to be completed, it has already made global headlines.

Towering above Dubai’s already iconic skyline, a hotel called Ciel Dubai will offer a ‘stay in the clouds’ experience unlike any other. Expected to open later this year, it will claim the title of the world’s tallest hotel. It is set to rise an astonishing 1,197 feet (365 meters) into the sky, beating all previous record holders. The hotel will be located in the heart of Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina. It will offer 360-degree views of the Persian Gulf, the Palm Jumeirah archipelago, and the Burj Khalifa.

The striking 82-storey tower will house 1,004 rooms, including 147 suites. Guests will be able to enjoy panoramic vistas, thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Apart from multiple high-end facilities, they will also be able to take advantage of more than 10 different F&B destinations on the hotel premises. There has been significant progress in the construction of various key sections of the hotel, as per updates shared by the developer in April-May 2025.

Ciel Dubai has been designed by NORR, the firm behind Dubai’s Atlantis The Palm, and is being developed by The First Group. It’s being positioned as both an architectural marvel and a global hospitality icon. It is a part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Vignette Collection.

Other Key Highlights Of Ciel Dubai:

• World’s highest infinity swimming pool: Located on the 76th floor (around 1,000 ft high), it is called the “Tattu Sky Pool”
• Sky restaurant at 1,158 feet
• Glass Observation deck and lounge on the 81st floor
• Tattu Dubai dining complex spanning 3 floors
• 12-level atrium sky garden (984 feet high)
• State-of-the-art gymnasium, luxury spa and other staple amenities

Once it opens, Ciel Dubai will offer its guests a chance to scale a new peak of luxury, quite literally.

Source: NDTV Travel

South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has unveiled two new digital visa schemes – STAGES and MEETS – aimed at strengthening the country’s appeal as a premier destination for film production and global events. Announced by Minister Leon Schreiber during the Home Affairs budget vote, the initiatives will streamline visa access for international film crews and attendees at large-scale events such as conferences and sports tournaments. STAGES (Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme) is designed to facilitate rapid visa approvals for production companies, while MEETS (Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme) will enable faster, online processing for event participants.

The new visas align with broader efforts to position South Africa as a competitive hub for cultural, sporting, and business tourism, with backing from the City of Cape Town. Events hosted in Cape Town over the coming years are forecast to generate R745 million in economic impact and draw over 27,000 delegates by 2028. Complementing these efforts, Home Affairs is also rolling out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system by September and expanding its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), which has already brought over 17,000 tourists from India and China since February. These measures support tourism growth and job creation across the industry.

Source: atta.travel

US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation banning travel to the US from nationals of 12 countries, which was effective on June 9.

The countries listed are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

Nationals from a further seven countries – Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela – will face partial travel restrictions.

So far, only the African Union, which represents all 55 nations on the African continent, Chad, Somalia and Venezuela have responded. Here is what they said.

Chad President Mahamat Déby said he has told his government to “act in accordance with the principles of reciprocity” and has suspended issuing visas to US citizens.

“Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give but Chad has its dignity and pride,” he said in a statement.

Somalia, whose nationals are banned, had a different response and made an immediate promise to work with the US to address security issues.

Somali ambassador to the US, Dahir Hassan Abdi, said: “Somalia values its longstanding relationship with the United States and stands ready to engage in dialogue to address the concerns raised.”

Meanwhile, African Union called on the US to “engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned”.

In a statement, it appealed to the US to exercise its sovereign right to protect its borders and its citizens’ security “in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa”.

The union said it remains concerned about the “potential negative impact of such measures”, and added that it “stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation”.

The ban has also drawn ire from Venezuela, whose Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello warned Venezuelans in the US.

“The truth is being in the United States is a big risk for anybody, not just for Venezuelans,” he warned, adding that the US is governed by what he called “bad people – it’s fascism, they are supremacists who think they own the world and persecute our people for no reason”.

Venezuela is one of the seven countries listed with partial restrictions. Since starting his second term, Trump has deported several Venezuelans alleged to be gang members to El Salvador.

Trump’s proclamation stated that the list would be evaluated in three months, and then every six months after that.

“The list is subject to revision based on whether material improvements are made, and likewise, new countries can be added as threats emerge around the world,” he explained on Truth Social.

In his video shared on the platform, he said: “We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States.”

As well as security risks, Trump’s proclamation gave other reasons, such as the listed countries having “taken advantage” of the US by exploiting its visa system, as well as nationals from certain countries, who “pose significant risks” of overstaying their visas.

Source: BBC.com

The Maasai Mara National Reserve has officially been included in the World Book of Records for hosting the World’s Greatest Annual Terrestrial Wildlife Migration.

The migration involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles that traverse the Maasai Mara and Serengeti reserve in Tanzania, at particular times of the year, especially in the rainy season, in search of fresh grazing lands and water.

As a result of this, millions of tourists from all over the world travel to witness the migration, which is considered a wonder of the world. 

In a letter addressed to the Narok Governor, Patrick Ole Ntuntu, World Books of Records President Santosh Shukla, said that the migration was the largest and most dramatic animal migration in the world. 

According to Santosh, the record reflected the reserve’s contribution to wildlife conservation and sustainable eco-tourism.

“We are delighted to inform you that the Maasai Mara National Reserve has been officially included in World Book of Records under the distinguished title: ‘World’s Greatest Annual Terrestrial Wildlife Migration’ for hosting the largest and most dramatic annual land animal migration on Earth, involving over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes traversing the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem,” part of the letter read.

“To commemorate this prestigious inclusion, we would be honoured to present the official World Record Certificate at the campus of Maasai Mara National Reserve. We request your kind confirmation for a suitable date and time for this presentation ceremony,” it added.

Welcoming the record, the governor asserted that the migration will remain fundamental in highlighting the ecological significance of the Maasai Mara Ecosystem, which harbours over 25% of Kenya’s biodiversity.

Established in 1961, the national reserve has stood out as one of the key tourism hubs in the country. The reserve hosts over 95 species of wild animals and more than 570 bird species.

Ntuntu has assured that the county government will remain at the forefront in ensuring that the national reserve remains a tourist destination, especially by reinforcing its infrastructural and security capacity.

“The migration is more than just a spectacle. As the herds arrive in Kenya, they come to mate and graze, making our country a vital link in the continuity of this extraordinary natural phenomenon,” he said.

“Upon assuming office two and a half years ago, my administration launched an ambitious campaign to restructure and revitalise the Maasai Mara National Reserve, to preserve and enhance this invaluable natural asset,” Ntuntu said.

Source : Kenyans.co.ke