RwandAir bullish on regional expansion prospects

Rwanda's National Carrier, RwandAir, is on a mission to double its fleet size by 2025, aiming to bolster capacity and extend its network reach. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Sales Manager Ignatius Ahimbisibwe shed light on the airline's ambitious plans and the impact of its recent partnership with Qatar Airways. Despite facing competition from other airlines in the region, RwandAir maintains a dominant market share of over 80%, spanning across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. The airline has been making significant strides in expanding its fleet size and received funding from the IMF to support its capacity development. Ahimbisibwe highlighted the importance of funding and capital investment in fueling the airline's growth trajectory. Currently operating 14 aircraft, RwandAir aims to increase its fleet, enhance direct routes, and expand globally by partnering with major airlines like Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines. The partnership with Qatar Airways alone enables RwandAir to connect to 62 destinations worldwide, spanning across Europe, the USA, Asia, Australia, and more. The collaborative effort not only strengthens network connectivity but also offers seamless travel experiences for passengers, eliminating multiple check-ins and layovers. Ahimbisibwe emphasized the economic benefits of partnerships, such as cost-sharing and route optimization, leading to enhanced operational efficiency. The mutually beneficial collaborations position RwandAir as a key regional hub, facilitating travel across Africa and beyond. In a strategic move to tap into the global market post-pandemic, RwandAir's alliances with leading carriers are set to drive growth and establish Rwanda as a prominent aviation hub in the region. Within the regional and domestic markets, RwandAir continues to solidify its presence by operating multiple daily flights to key destinations in Africa. From Nairobi to Johannesburg, Dubai to Accra, RwandAir's extensive network underscores its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and promoting tourism in Rwanda. The airline's cargo business is also gaining traction, with investments in Cargo Freighters and partnerships with Qatar Airways to expand cargo operations and revenue streams. As part of its domestic tourism initiatives, RwandAir offers special fares for domestic flights to Camembe, aimed at promoting local travel and supporting the hospitality sector. Collaborations with prominent hotels further enhance travel experiences, offering attractive packages for travelers looking to explore Rwanda. With a focus on fleet expansion, global network growth, and cargo business development, RwandAir is poised for success in the ever-evolving aviation landscape.