Aviadev Insight

Welcome to the April 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 to launch to Sharjah 4 x week and go double daily to Lagos from July.  Qantas is rumoured to be launching Perth-Johannesburg in December 3 x week Etihad to increase flights from Nairobi to double daily in December Deep dive into the London-Africa dynamic and how London Gatwick has improved it's share of African traffic Air Sierra Leone launching to London Gatwick from Freetown in June with one of our commentators heavily involved Condor expanding services to Cape Town and Johannesburg from November Africa World Airlines launching flights to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso from 3 June Kenya Airways summer schedule changes and west Africa operation Listen to Sean's commentary on

In this episode, I sit down with Selim Bouri, President, Middle East, Africa and Turkiye at SITA to interpret the findings of a recent SITA survey focused on air transport IT.  Selim shares his insights on the below questions: Has momentum towards digitalization and IT investment in African airports broadly continued post-Covid?  Why was passenger processing identified as the most important factor in the report?   What solutions can African airports focus on in 2025 that ensure the highest return for the lowest investment and the shortest implementation time? How can Artificial Intelligence support airports and what specific solutions are already available to African airports? How can technology investment support sustainability targets and initiatives?  You can meet the SITA team at AviaDev Africa in June Follow/ Connect with Selim on LinkedIn Download the IT insights report here  SITA is the World's leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology. Visit the website

In this episode, I sit down with Kwame Bekoe, Co-Founder and CEO of AfriSAF, https://afrisaf.com/  After 20 years working in the aviation industry for companies such as Airbus, GECAS, Zero and now proudly owning an MBA, Entrepreneur Kwame Bekoe is embarking on his biggest mission yet- to unlock Africa's sustainable energy potential.  In the episode, we discuss Kwame's passion for agriculture and Africa, why he feels a biomass-driven SAF solution is what the world needs now, and the input and enthusiasm of African airlines and investors.  CONNECT WITH KWAME

In this episode, I am joined by Anastasija Visnakova, Vice President Sales and Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, a re-established OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).  The D328eco is a modern turboprop aircraft boasting state-of-the-art technology and exceptional performance. Together, we discuss: The history of the airframe and how we got here The major features (Capacity, layout) and what specific items make it 21st century ready Why the aircraft is a good fit for the African market and how it can be utilised The sustainability benefits and potential savings for operators How to finance a purchase and when an aircraft may be available.  You can meet the Deutsche team at AviaDev in Zanzibar June 11-13th  Visit the website to find out more Connect with Anastasija

Welcome to the March 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 this month include: Recap and feedback on Uganda Airlines' new LGW route Kenya Airways report a $42 million profit and continues to tweak its schedules and navigate operational challenges Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Partnership. Who stands to gain the most and what's behind it? Deep Dive Topic 1: Understanding the importance and changing dynamic of the China market to Ethiopian Airlines' network.  Deep Dive Topic 2: US-South Africa schedule changes as Delta and United lean in to Cape Town and away from Johannesburg Fastjet to launch Harare-Lusaka from 9th April Airlink to boost Nairobi to 10 x week and Lusaka to 10x day Singapore Airlines increasing Johannesburg to 10x week in April and 12x from June Gulf Air to ret

In this episode, we hear Rodger Foster's farewell speech to the industry ahead of his retirement.    Rodger is CEO and Managing Director of Airlink, and the speech reflects on his career and the evolution of Airlink since its founding in 1992. He reflects on the journey through significant political and economic changes in South Africa, detailing the challenges and achievements in the aviation industry. Rodger discusses the current state of the industry, emphasizing the need for updated regulatory frameworks, better infrastructure, and more collaborative approaches to unlock Africa's aviation potential. He criticizes the inefficacy of the Single African Air Transport Market (SATAM), and addresses issues like unfair economic regulations, outdated airport services, and the need for modernized weather services and digitalization. Ultimately, Rodger advocates for fundamental growth changes and greater unity across the industry to ensure a sustainable future. Watch Rodger's lifetime achievement award interview her

Welcome to the February 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 this month include: Air Peace canceled Johannesburg, Lome, and Jeddah flights, but signed an interline agreement with Emirates RwandAir's connectivity challenges and how they can overcome them Ethiopian updates include the new Porto Route, Manchester moving to daily service, Entebbe increase, Moscow increase, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur increases, and a change in routing for West Africa Etihad to suspend Seychelles from 22 May Condor increasing Cape Town from 5-7 per week and Jo'burg from 2-3 per week, plus Norse to go 4 x weekly to CPT Winter 2025 ITA to start Rome - Mauritius flights from November 2025 Cathay Pacific to increase to Jo'burg from 5 x week to daily from July Uganda Airlines latest on the Lond

In this episode, I am joined by Marco Goetz, Chief Commercial Officer, and Rupert Kraus, Director Network Development and Airport Relations at Discover Airlines.  The airline turns 4 in 2025 and continues to develop its African network.  In the episode, we discuss: The African network and fleet in 2025. The Zanzibar route performance and continued expansion A new route for 2025, the Seychelles, starting in October 2025.  Windhoek will be served from a new base in Munich 3 x week from March 2025. How big a role has the interline with Airlink/ FlyNamibia played in making this route a success?  Inflight product upgrades Fleet development and what this means for African destinations that cannot yet be served.  Meet the team at AviaDev in Zanzibar this June Connect with Rupert Connect with Marco

In this episode, I am joined by our 3 partners to preview the inaugural AviaDev tourism and connectivity forum, a platform offering practical advice and showcasing best practices to inform and assist Africa's tourism authorities to shape their destination's connectivity.  Our partners are: Natalia Rosa, Tourism Project Lead, SADC Tourism Business Council  Kojo Bentum-Williams, CEO, VoyagesAfriq Tim Harris, Helm Growth Advisors In the episode, we discuss: Why the Cape Town Air Access initiative was created and the benefits it has brought to the Western Cape Is there appetite from the SADC governments to support the development of aviation and tourism in the region and what lobbying efforts are currently taking place? Why destinations are not already more involved in air service development An overview of the sessions and what attendees will gain from attending.  You can find out more about the event here If you are an airport listener, why not share the episode and encourage your tourism authority to join you

In this episode, we sit down with George Mothema, CEO of BARSA, the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa, who represents the interests of international, regional, and local member airlines and ground handlers to government, airport operators, and stakeholders in the airline industry.  We cover: South Africa's recovery to date in terms of airlift and tourism BARSA's priorities for 2025 and beyond What's holding back progress? An overview of topics and speakers slated for the 2025 edition, taking place 13-14 March in Kruger, Mpumulanga.  To find out more about the summit, visit https://barsa.co.za/summit-2025/  To follow BARSA on LinkedIn, click here  To view the Trevor Noah campaign video

In this episode, recorded live on location in Dubai, we are joined by Timur Shumarov, Co-Founder, and Tatenda Karuwa, Account Executive, from Solus Insurance Brokers to discuss the critical topic of aviation insurance for African airlines. In the episode, we cover: The typical insurance an airline will need to be able to operate How is the insurance landscape in Africa changing and what is driving the change?  The challenges of providing incomplete or incorrect information when applying for coverage or leaving a renewal too late The benefits of engaging an insurance broker to support the airline.  Connect with Tatenda Connect with Timur Find out more about Solus at https://solus.ae/  Our conversation is supported by an insightful article entitled "5 Best Practices When Seeking Aviation Insurance" which can be read here  

We welcome back Raphael Haddad, President of Jetcraft Commerical, for a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities facing African airlines regarding aircraft procurement and financing.  Topics discussed: An overview of current market trends and sentiment Is aircraft acquisition and financing becoming more difficult and what options are open to African airlines? Fleet renewals. Are airlines looking for improved efficiency and economics or are they simply focused on cost? How can we improve the strength of African airlines to ensure that African connectivity continues to develop? Is Africa ready to handle a doubling of the commercial fleet in the next 20 years?  Connect with Raphael on LinkedIn Visit the Jetcraft Commercial website

Welcome to the first 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  In this bumper episode, we cover the following stories: ✈️ Ethiopian Airlines to launch Hyderabad 3 x week from June ✈️ SAA opening a daily flight to Dar-Es-Salaam on 20th January ✈️ Air Sierra Leone launching operations with Freetown-Lagos using Embraer ERJ 145 ✈️ British Airways increasing service to Nairobi in Summer 2025 and the impact on Kenya Airways and Uganda Airlines' ambitions in this market ✈️ Lufthansa Group deep dive: Brussels Airlines increasing its long haul fleet and sub-Saharan expansion to 56 weekly flights.  ✈️ Discover to launch Seychelles 2 x week from October 2025 ✈️ ITA joining the Lufthansa Group and what this means for African connectivity  ✈️ Air Arabia launching service to Addis Ababa from Sharja

In our first podcast of 2025, we examine how AI is revolutionizing airline revenue management and how this can improve airline profitability in Africa and across the globe. To discuss this topic, I am joined by 3 revenue management experts: the President and CEO of RTS, Raja Kasilingam; Passenger Airline Senior Vice President, Bharat Kumar and Senior Vice President, Jason Codd.  Topics discussed: An introduction to airline revenue management- its origins and evolution Common mistakes airlines make with their revenue management practices The World of Artificial Intelligence and how it can support decision making How to deal with scepticism and how AI can provide transparency in outlining recommendations Read the blog here Connect with Raja here Connect with Bharat here Connect with Jason here     

This is the fourteenth and end-of-year edition of the AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update, the podcast offering insight into the route developments in Africa, 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  Our protagonists will be nominating their chosen routes according to the following categories:✈️ Intercontinental Route of the Year ✈️ Intra-Africa Route of the Year ✈️ Best intercontinental "Expansion" Route of the year ✈️ Worst Route decision of the year ✈️ Route suspension of the year ✈️ Surprise route of the year ✈️ Most sensible commercial decision of the year If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe to the podcast to never miss another episode and share this episode with someone in your network who would benefit from listening. 

In this episode, we speak with the Editors of a new publication dedicated to Air Service Development.  This is particularly poignant for your host, as Jon Howell contributed both the Preface and a chapter to the book. In the episode, we explore whether the book is theoretical or practical, who will derive value from the publication, and get some insight into the contributors. To order the book, visit the Routledge website here

In this episode, Arif Abbas, the Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, outlines the island's tourism strategy.  We discuss why ZCT chose to partner with the Zanzibar Airports Authority to host AviaDev in June 2025, the importance of tourism to the Island's economy, and why growth in volume is not the only metric of success.  Learn about the target markets and the renewed focus on African connectivity.  Find out more about the event at www.aviadev.com 

This is the thirteenth edition of AviaDev Insight Africa Connectivity update, the podcast offering insight into the new route developments in Africa, 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  Joao Po Jorge CONNECT WITH JOAO Key topics discussed: ✈️ FlySafair's current predicament and impending ruling ✈️ Ethiopian launching domestic operations in DRC as part of a joint venture ✈️ Ethiopian's new A350-1000 and pending regional aircraft decision- will it be the E2 or the A220? ✈️ Virgin delaying Accra launch  ✈️ Uganda Airlines leasing in A320s and an update on the London Gatwick route ✈️ Air Tanzania's new CEO and launch to Johannesburg 5x week ✈️ Flynas to open Entebbe and Djibouti from January 2025 ✈️ How important will Africa be to Riyadh Air's strategy?  ✈️ Air Sierra Leone- what do we know? ✈️ flyDubai's quiet increase to Addis and Entebbe If you

This episode was recorded on location on the Spice Island of Zanzibar on 15th November 2024.  I sat down with the DG of the Zanzibar Airports Authority to understand why they wanted to host AviaDev in 2025.  We also discuss the incredible passenger growth, new infrastructure and where the opportunities lie for more connectivity.  Finally, we discuss some ideas of what to do on the Island before or after the AviaDev event in June 2025.  Find out more at www.aviadev.com 

In this episode, we speak to Jacob Rogers, a recent graduate from Coventry University in the UK.  Jacob recently graduated with First Class Honours in BSc Aviation Management. His dissertation topic was fascinating and based on interviews with African Aviation leaders. As a Visiting Professor at the University, we first discussed the topic a year ago, so I'm delighted to bring the topic to the podcast. Together we discussed: Jacob's interest in African aviation The objective of the research Significant differences between leadership styles in Africa and traditional styles Did anything stand out or surprise in the findings? Major takeaways and conclusion of the research CONNECT WITH JACOB ON LINKEDIN  If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with someone in your network who will benefit from listening and please subscribe/ leave us a review so more people can find us.  Find out more about AviaDev, www.aviadev.com