Air Congo launches regional flights to 5 African nations, unlocking US$570M gateway upgrade

DRC – Air Congo has commenced its ambitious regional expansion, connecting Kinshasa to Johannesburg, Entebbe, Douala, Cotonou, and Dar es Salaam in a phased launch from March to April 2026.

The move transforms the Democratic Republic of Congo’s flag carrier into a continental connector, backed by Ethiopian Airlines’ technical expertise and a US$570 million transformation of N’Djili International Airport.

Five Routes, One Vision

The launch follows a carefully choreographed schedule: March 22 brings flights to Johannesburg and Entebbe, March 28 adds Douala and Cotonou, and April 4 completes the network with Dar es Salaam.

Each destination serves a strategic purpose, South Africa for luxury tourism and trade, Tanzania for safari access, Uganda for East African integration, Benin for West African heritage tourism, and Cameroon for Central African business connectivity.

Hospitality Boom on the Horizon

The “Air Congo effect” is already rippling through hotel boardrooms. Cities across the network are bracing for increased arrivals from travelers eager to explore multi-country itineraries without transiting through Europe.

Hoteliers are adapting to serve the “New African Traveler,” prioritizing high-speed internet, regional culinary options, and seamless airport transfers.

Kinshasa Transforms into Regional Hub

At the heart of this expansion, N’Djili International Airport is undergoing a US$570 million metamorphosis.

Designed by renowned architecture firm SOM, the new terminal will handle 5 million passengers annually by 2037, expandable to 9.1 million by 2050.

Inspired by traditional Congolese basketry, the sweeping canopy roof creates a rippling surface that filters daylight and intuitively guides travelers through the space.

The project targets LEED Gold certification, incorporating sustainable materials and climate-responsive design.

Ethiopian Airlines Partnership Provides Muscle

Air Congo’s rapid ascent rests on a solid foundation.

Ethiopian Airlines holds a 49% stake and manages operations, providing aircraft, technical support, and training for Congolese pilots, cabin crew, and technicians.

This partnership aligns with Ethiopian’s Vision 2035 strategy of establishing multiple hubs across Africa, complementing existing ventures in Togo, Malawi, and Zambia.

AfCFTA Provides Political Tailwind

The expansion arrives as the African Continental Free Trade Area pushes for deeper integration.

AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene has repeatedly called for accelerating the Single African Air Transport Market, noting that “too many delegates today had to transit through Europe to reach Algiers.”

Air Congo’s new routes directly answer that call, keeping African travelers and their money on the continent.

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