Eswatini Air Poised to Launch Operations Soon

• Eswatini Air has received its Air Operator Certificate and is ready for launch.
• The airline has plans for direct flights to cities in South Africa and Harare.
• CEO Qiniso Dhlamini is optimistic about securing necessary operating permits soon.

Eswatini Air Receives Air Operator Certificate and Plans Launch

Eswatini Air is gearing up for its inaugural flights following the acquisition of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in December. The flag carrier of Eswatini announced its readiness on Facebook, indicating there are only a few logistical details left to be ironed out before it can provide a flight schedule. While a specific launch date has not been pinpointed, the CEO, Qiniso Dhlamini, is optimistic about obtaining the necessary operating permits, which are essential for flights to various international destinations soon.

Flight Services and Ground Handling Plans

The company plans to connect Manzini King Mswati III International Airport to key cities such as Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Harare, utilizing a fleet comprised of two Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft. As South Africa remains the largest trading partner of Eswatini, these routes may significantly strengthen trade and tourism ties in the region. Furthermore, Eswatini Air is not just looking to fly; it also aims to provide ground-handling services for other airlines, which includes tasks like customer liaison and aircraft dispatch, thereby diversifying its operations.

Challenges and Future Vision for Eswatini Air

Initially, Eswatini Air aimed to launch last year, but delays in acquiring its AOC extended the timeline to 2023. While this has understandably created some frustration, the overarching goal remains clear: to establish reliable air travel that serves both passengers and the local economy. It’s crucial for the airline to navigate through its operational groundwork effectively, so that they can quickly move from plans to actual flights, making air travel more accessible for Swaziland and fostering regional connectivity.

In summary, Eswatini Air is on the brink of its operational launch after receiving its AOC, with a vision to enhance connectivity with South Africa and beyond. The airline plans to operate direct flights from King Mswati III International Airport to major cities, while also expanding its services through ground handling. Although faced with initial delays, the commitment to establishing solid operations and connections remains a primary focus for this emerging airline.