Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast AviaDev Insight Africa
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 356. AviaDev's November 2025 Africa Connectivity Update with Sean Mendis and Behramjee Ghadially | 08 Nov 2025 | 01:16:04 | |
In this episode, we cover the latest route and fleet developments in African aviation. Topics include: SAA's new Johannesburg - Gaborone route and fleet RFP Proflight Zambia's new Maun route via Livingstone Airlink's new Zanzibar route from June on E2 Malawi Airlines Liliongwe to Johannesburg increased to 10x weekly Air Cote d'Ivoire to Beirut from Jan 26 Lufthansa Group's Africa expansion Air Seychelles to go daily to Abu Dhabi Air Peace's Caribbean charter flights Ethiopian increasing Rome to double daily from 1 June 2026 This month's guests are: Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH SEAN Behramjee Ghadially, Aviation Consultant. CONNECT WITH BEHRAMJEE | |||
| 355. Bridging the gap. Reflections on the ICAO NGAP event with 3 AviaDev Ambassadors | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:43:15 | |
In this episode of AviaDev Insight Africa, host Jon Howell speaks with three inspirational AviaDev ambassadors—Mahek Shah, Usman Cisse, and Ellah Wafula about their experiences at the recent ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals event in Durban, August 2025. Supported by Airlink, these young aviators not only attended the event but also spoke to a global audience. They discuss their backgrounds, motivations, and key insights gained from the summit. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, structured pathways, and collaboration across generations to empower the future leaders of the African aviation industry. They also emphasize the role of social media in engaging and inspiring the next generation. The episode includes reflections on the impact and legacy of such events and calls for more structured support to bridge the gap for young aviation enthusiasts in Africa. Connect with Ousman on LinkedIn Connect with Mahek on LinkedIn Follow Wings for Women on Instagram Find out more about Wings for Women | |||
| 346. Dressed for Success: ACMI explained through The Tuxedo Framework with Andrew Lester, Chapman Freeborn Airchartering | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:31:41 | |
In this episode, I am joined by Andrew Lester, ACMI and Leasing Manager for India, the Middle East, and Africa at Chapman Freeborn Airchartering. Together, we delve into the intricacies of ACMI (Aircraft Crew Maintenance and Insurance) leasing, comparing it to renting a tuxedo for event season, and discuss its strategic advantages for African airlines facing unique market challenges. The conversation covers the benefits, common misconceptions, and regulatory hurdles of ACMI leasing, while highlighting African success stories such as Lift and Uganda Airlines. Andrew emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and partnership to maximize profitability and meet seasonal demand, advocating for a broader acceptance and smarter implementation of ACMI as part of a fleet strategy in Africa. Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn Find out more about Chapman Freeborn here ACMI Leasing & Aircraft Leasing Solutions Download the brochure: Chapman Freeborn ACMI Leasing Solutions by Chapman Freeborn | |||
| 256. AviaDev Africa 2023 OEM panel. How Original Equipment Manufacturers have helped airlines adapt their strategies to deliver new routes and revenue streams during and after the pandemic | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:45:10 | |
This podcast is a recording of a panel session from June 15th 2023. Join us as we discuss how the OEMs have supported their customers to adapt their strategy to open new routes and deliver new revenue streams during and since the pandemic. MODERATOR: Aaron Munetsi, CEO, Airlines Association of Southern Africa In conversation with: Dominique Dumas, Vice President Sales Africa & Indian Ocean, ATR Joep Ellers, Airline Marketing Director - Africa, Airbus James Bosse, Director Sales, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Raphael Haddad, President, Jetcraft Commercial Stephan Hannemann, VP Sales & Marketing, Head of MEA, Embraer Jason Sutcliffe, Regional Marketing Director, Rolls-Royce | |||
| 255. AviaDev Africa 2023 CEO panel. Profit before planet? Navigating investment in environmental solutions amidst financial challenges | 29 Jun 2023 | 00:50:47 | |
This episode is a recording from June 15th. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities facing African airline CEOs as they work to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. Can African airlines prioritize sustainability over profit in the short-term? MODERATOR: Hilka Birns, Aviation Journalist, ch-aviation In conversation with:
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| 254. Panel Session 3, AviaDev Africa. Innovating for Success. How technology is driving efficiency, building resilience and improving profitability across the African Aviation Industry | 26 Jun 2023 | 00:36:22 | |
This is a recording of the AviaDev Africa panel session from June 15th focused on How the latest technological innovations enable the African aviation industry to operate more efficiently and sustainably. MODERATOR: Habba Hadijah Kamwesiga, Head of Marketing & Communications , RwandAir In conversation with: Richard Ortega, Commercial Director EMEA, Kiu System Solutions Judy Waruiru, Managing Director, DPO Pay Javed Malik, Chair of the Advisory Board, Ink Innovation Brett Preston, Executive | Aerospace and Aviation, Technodyn International Manish Shrivastava, Co-Founder , Tourish | |||
| 253: AviaDev Real Estate: Creating a Winning Formula for Airport Hotels in Africa: Understanding the Requirements for Success | 21 Jun 2023 | 00:33:35 | |
This is a recording of the session entitled "Creating a winning formula for airport hotels in Africa: Understanding the requirements for success" Moderator: Trevor Ward, Principal, W Hospitality Group In conversation with Shamil Manek, Director, The Merwest Company
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| 252. Understanding the benefits of implementing a comprehensive MRO system for your airline with Brett Preston, and Esenthren Govender, Executives at Technodyn International | 31 May 2023 | 00:18:43 | |
In just over 2 weeks, the African aviation industry will convene in Nairobi, Kenya for AviaDev Africa. We have a panel dedicated to discussing new technologies at the event. Post Covid, digitisation is one of the hottest topics in the industry and one of the companies blazing a trail in this space is Technodyn International, which already support a multitude of companies across the aviation value chain. In this episode, we discuss: How Technodyn and IFS are related and what solutions are on offer How Technodyn International Supports the aviation industry The tangible benefits of deploying the IFS solution Understanding the level of technological adoption currently within African aviation The capital investment required to implement the IFS solution To find out more you can visit the Technodyn website here Connect with Brett on LinkedIn Connect with Esenthren on LinkedIn Meet the team at AviaDev in Nairobi 14-16th June 2023 If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening | |||
| 251. Simplifying payments and preventing fraud for African airlines with Judy Waruiru, Managing Director, DPO Pay | 25 May 2023 | 00:15:37 | |
In this episode, we meet the leader of a true African success story. Since its inception in 2006, DPO Pay has played a vital role in changing the payments landscape across Africa. Together, we discover how DPO supports its airline customers to process transactions seamlessly and prevent fraud, whilst simplifying the process for the general public and making air travel more accessible. Find out more about DPO Pay here Connect or follow Judy on LinkedIn here If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone in your network that you think would benefit from listening. | |||
| 250. How Kiu System Solutions is supporting African airlines to widen their distribution whilst lowering their costs with Rodger Whittle, Commercial Director for Africa at Kiu | 18 May 2023 | 00:26:38 | |
This podcast was recorded 10th May on-site at the AFRAA aviation stakeholders convention in Addis Ababa, where I was joined by Rodger Whittle, The commercial director for Africa at Kiu, a company with a global footprint that offers an innovative and robust Passenger Service system and suite of airline Solutions. Rodger himself has vast African aviation experience and is now leading the charge to support airlines to reduce their cost of distribution. Today's episode is supported by an article that is featured in the current edition African skies, AFRAA's magazine which focuses on containing costs affecting airline distribution in Africa. Together, we discuss: The current state of airline distribution in Africa Why Kiu's solutions make sense for Africa Kiu's full suite of solutions Future trends affecting the technology and airline distribution space You can connect with Rodger via LinkedIn here Find out more about Kiu's solutions here You will also be able to meet Rodger and the team at AviaDev in Nairobi this June. | |||
| 249. Developing Africa's human capital with Kassie Yimam,President, Ethiopian Aviation University | 12 May 2023 | 00:19:18 | |
This podcast was recorded May 10th in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the AFRAA aviation stakeholders convention which was hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. One of the secrets of Ethiopian airlines' success is their drive to constantly innovate and develop. The aviation academy is one example of the group's has diversification and has recently been upgraded to an aviation university. Together, we talk about how Africa can develop the skills required to support human capital development on the continent. To find out more about the University, you can click here To follow or connect with Kassie on LinkedIn click here If you enjoyed this podcast, please forward it to one person in your network that you think would benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you at AviaDev Africa in Nairobi this June. | |||
| 248. Outlining Lufthansa's expansion in Africa with Kevin Markette, General Manager East Africa at the Lufthansa Group | 07 May 2023 | 00:23:47 | |
For this episode, I am joined by Kevin Markette, General Manager, East Africa at the Lufthansa Group. On 2nd May 2023, the group announced a capacity/ schedule increase for Lufthansa, Eurowings Discover, and Brussels airlines in the region. Together, we discuss what has driven this announcement and what this means for the region. You can connect with Kevin on Linkedin here and of course, meet the team at AviaDev Africa 2023 in Nairobi this June. | |||
| 247. Exploring Kenya's connectivity with Jacob Bwana, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Kenya Airports Authority | 25 Apr 2023 | 00:21:25 | |
For this episode, we find ourselves in Nairobi Kenya, where the AviaDev Africa conference will take place in June. Our Host partners for the event are the Kenya Airports Authority, an autonomous body charged with the responsibility of managing all airports across Kenya. They are also the entity that is actively involved in route development, the main focus of AviaDev, namely engaging the airlines to start or expand their services to Kenya's airports. In this episode, I am joined by Jacob Bwana, Head of Marketing and Business Development at KAA and together we discuss: The post-covid recovery and resurgence. Where KAA sees gaps in the destinations served both within Africa and outside the continent How KAA works with other stakeholders to attract and retain airlines? The Cargo market opportunity. Is the market softening or continuing to grow and how is KAA supporting its development? An update on infrastructural development plans within the portfolio? What KAA hopes to achieve from hosting AviaDev Africa in Nairobi? | |||
| 345. AviaDev's July 2025 Africa Connectivity Update with Sean Mendis and Behramjee Ghadially | 31 Jul 2025 | 01:09:19 | |
Welcome to the July 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: The latest in the FlySafair pilot strike saga Virgin increasing capacity on LHR-LOS from 26 October, deploying the 397 seater A350-1000. A good move or short term strategy? Qatar Airways reducing Nigeria frequencies in W25. Why? South African Airways' new route CPT-MRU and the fallout from the restated accounts FastJet Mozambique- the latest developments FastJet to launch a new domestic route from Vic Falls to Bulawayo from 8th August 4 x week DEEP DIVE: CDG-Africa route performance of ET vs KQ TAAG Angola to launch Nairobi 3 x week from 1st Sept. What is the outlook? Flightlink open a new service to Nairobi from Zanzibar - listen to the recent podcast with Munawer, the CEO here Air india suspend Nairobi. Will it come back? ASKY's new service to Nouakchott, Mauritania. Where can they go next? Listen to the recent podcast with Date, the Commercial Director here If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with your network or leave us a review. All event sessions from AviaDev Africa 2025 and the vodcast are available on the AviaDev YouTube Channel | |||
| 246. Delivering operational and technological innovations to build business resilience with Javed Malik, INK Innovation | 17 Apr 2023 | 00:36:06 | |
In this episode, we take a glimpse into the future of how we may travel and how airports and airlines can incorporate innovation to build resilience into their businesses. I am joined by Javed Malik, Chair of the Advisory Board at Ink Innovation. Javed has been a leader in the aviation industry for over 27 years, having held various Group and C-level positions, including Group COO of AirAsia, COO of Bangalore Airport, along with senior roles at Qatar Airways, Worldwide Flight Services and British Airways. Javed leads the INK plus division and his advisory work focuses on ground handling, airline operations and airports worldwide. Together we discuss: What areas are the quick wins that require a limited investment for African airports to focus on? How can airports position themselves to be more attractive to investors? Examples of real world hardware and software solutions that can quickly and affordably be implemented in Africa What this means for customer behaviour and the adoption of these new technologies. How do we cater for all different traveller profiles? | |||
| 245. "Changing the African Aviation Narrative" Talking all things Ethiopian Airlines and Previewing the AFRAA Stakeholders Convention with Ato Mesfin Tasew Bekele, Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines and Mr Abderahmane Berthe, SG, AFRAA | 13 Apr 2023 | 00:28:39 | |
In this episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the current priorities of Ethiopian Airlines, the hosts of the upcoming 11th AFRAA Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place 7-9th May in Addis Ababa. Together we discuss:
To find out more about the convention, click here | |||
| 244. SAATM's role in driving intra-African connectivity with Madame Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General, AFCAC | 27 Mar 2023 | 00:43:35 | |
In this episode, we head to Dakar, Senegal to pay a visit to the Headquarters of The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), a specialist agency of the African Union. AFCAC is the executing agency of SAATM, the Single Africa Air Transport Market, which if successfully implemented could hold the key to a golden age of Aviation development on the continent. To discuss progress, challenges, and priorities, we are joined by the recipient of the 2021 AviaDev Ato Girma Wake lifetime award for an outstanding contribution to route development in Africa, Madame Adefunke Adeyemi, the Secretary General of AFCAC. Together, we discuss:
You can visit AFCAC at www.afcac.org If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 243. Understanding the opportunity of the growing ACMI market in Africa with Dainius Staniulis, the Vice President of Commercial and Business Development, Avion Express | 20 Mar 2023 | 00:22:34 | |
In this episode, we explore a solution that is growing in importance in Africa, namely ACMI, an acronym meaning Aircraft Crew Maintenance and Insurance, a form of leasing. Our guest is Dainius Staniulis, the Vice President of Commercial and Business Development at Avion Express, a provider of short and long-term leasing and charter solutions. In the episode, we discuss: The definition of ACMI and how it differs from the traditional means of operating on the continent. How big the ACMI market is right now? The prevailing market conditions in Africa that make ACMI particularly appropriate. Examples where the solution has been deployed successfully on the continent. Can an airline still make money on this type of operation? If you are listening and want to know more, read the article accompanying the post here Connect with Dainius on LinkedIn If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, leave us a review so we can be found by more people and share the episode with someone you think will benefit from listening. | |||
| 242. Flysafair takes flight to the spice Island of Zanzibar. With Kirby Gordon, CMO | 15 Mar 2023 | 00:19:25 | |
This episode is an exclusive interview with Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer of FlySafair, a low-cost airline based in South Africa. Bookings were opened for a new flight to Zanzibar in the week of 13th March 2023 and in this interview, we set out to understand why now is the right time to launch the route, the traffic profile driving the route, an update on the fleet expansion and which other destinations are on the radar in the Southern African region. You can follow Kirby on LinkedIn here Find out more at https://www.flysafair.co.za/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon. | |||
| 241. Diversifying revenue. Building Resilience. Previewing AviaDev Real Estate with Marcel Langeslag, Director Aviation Africa, Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO) | 13 Mar 2023 | 00:21:50 | |
In this episode, we preview the upcoming inaugural AviaDev Real Estate event, taking place alongside AviaDev Africa in Nairobi on 14th June 2023. The podcast provides more background on how real estate development could act as a catalyst for the successful future of many African airports. Marcel has contributed an article in Airport World, expanding on many of these topics, which you can access here In the episode, we ask: Just how resilient is real estate and what are the reasons behind this resilience? How do African airports fit with the airport city concept? Are they large enough? What specific developments can African airports look at as potential real estate development opportunities? What are the main ingredients to ensure success? What airports can expect from the AviaDev Real Estate event Let's discuss the format and what they can expect from the event? Finally, If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon. | |||
| 240. Think Big. Start Small. Scale Fast. Improving passenger experience at African airports with Adonis Succar, Director of Business Development, MEA at SITA | 06 Mar 2023 | 00:22:37 | |
This episode was recorded on the sidelines of the ACI Africa event which took place in Kigali, Rwanda between 28th February and 2nd March 2023. I am joined by Adonis Succar is the Director of Business Development for MEA at SITA. SITA is the world's leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology and has many customers on the African continent. In the podcast, we discuss: Passenger preferences. Are we all looking for a more contactless, digitally enabled journey? How can an airport deliver innovation and contactless solutions without huge costs? What are the tangible benefits to digitizing? How do smaller airports future-proof themselves? How do we plan for and cater for the increased proportion of older travellers? What opportunities and challenges does this offer? Finally, what does the journey of the future look like? How far are we away from not needing our physical passports in order to travel? Download the IT insights report here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon. | |||
| 239. Talking network, fleet and Arsenal with Yvonne Manzi Makolo, CEO of RwandAir | 01 Mar 2023 | 00:17:22 | |
For this episode, you find me on location in the land of a thousand hills, Rwanda. AviaDev's relationship with Rwanda and RwandAir goes back to 2016 when AviaDev was born in Kigali. My guest today is the CEO of RwandAir, Yvonne Manzi Makolo who took the reins of the airline in 2018. Yvonne comes from a telecommunications background rather than aviation, although she's now firmly immersed in our community and the airline continues to develop with new routes, new aircraft, and a renewed focus on cargo operations. In this podcast we discuss: ✈️ would Yvonne consider herself an #avgeek ? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon. | |||
| 238. Vulindlela The awakening of Aviation. Previewing the BARSA conference with George Mothema, CEO | 14 Feb 2023 | 00:22:34 | |
In this episode, we speak to George Mothema, the CEO of the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa or BARSA, who are a valuable partner for AviaDev and represent the interests of domestic, regional and international airlines serving South Africa to government and other stakeholders in the airline industry.
In podcast 229, we briefly discussed the idea of an upcoming BARSA event. This is now a reality and in this episode we preview the event, which will take place at the wonderful Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town on 10th March. You find out more here https://barsa.co.za/summit/ Follow BARSA on LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/company/board-of-airline-representatives-of-south-africa/ Don't forget, AviaDev takes place in Nairobi Kenya between 14th and 16th June 2023. To find out more, please visit www.aviationdevelop.com If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon. | |||
| 237. Nigeria Air to be airborne in 2023? Michael Jonga, AeroTime in conversation with Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Hadi Abubakar Sirika | 05 Feb 2023 | 00:36:06 | |
In this episode, AviaDev Africa shares an exclusive interview that was hosted, produced and published by AeroTime. In the interview, AeroTime Journalist and Africa correspondent Michael Jonga sat down in the AeroTime Studio with the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Hadi Abubakar Sirika. key topics include: 🛫 The expected launch of Nigeria Air in the first quarter of 2023 and its ownership structure with Ethiopian Airlines. 🛫 The fallout from the legal action taken by some of Nigeria's domestic airlines as a result. 🛫 Developing connectivity to Nigeria and the Minister's forecast of Nigeria seeing 50 to 60 million passengers per annum within the next decade under the Single African Air Transport Market? 🛫 Measures being put in place by the Nigerian government to prevent the build-up of unrepatriated airline ticket revenues. 🛫 Investments being made into Nigeria's aviation infrastructure and personnel training. You can watch the full video interview on AeroTime, click here: https://youtu.be/XNqPyDYBLPo Read the full interview publication on AeroTime, click here: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/exclusive-nigeria-air-expected-to-receive-aoc-for-q1-launch-breakeven-by-2026 To connect with Michael Jonga, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jonga-719378183/ AeroTime is a global and digital multi-channel aviation hub that provides news, events, recruitment and advisory services to the aviation world. Find out more about AeroTime here: https://www.aerotime.aero/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon.
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| 344. Slow and Steady Wins the Skies: The ASKY Airlines' Journey with Martial Date Tevi-Benissan, Commercial Director | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:36:43 | |
In this episode, Date and I delve into the airline's growth and future ambitions. ASKY Airlines, now operating profitably for 15 years, boasts a fleet of 14 aircraft, connecting nearly 30 destinations across Africa. Date discusses recent network expansions, the airline's strategic focus on increasing flight frequencies, and the challenges and opportunities in African connectivity. The conversation also covers the transition to a uniform fleet, the high cost of operations in West and Central Africa, prospects of long-haul expansion, and potential infrastructure developments. The episode underscores ASKY's methodical approach to sustainable growth and market adaptation. | |||
| 236. Rightsizing for growth in 2023 and beyond with Stephan Hannemann, VP, sales and marketing MEA and Akie Chhabra, Sales Director- Africa, Embraer | 23 Jan 2023 | 00:34:42 | |
In the first episode of 2023, I am joined by 2 guests from Embraer Commercial Aviation, namely Stephane Hannemann, the VP of sales and marketing for The Middle East and Africa, who started his Embraer in the African market and has come full circle, and Akie Chabra, sales director, who joined the team in 2022, is based in Johannesburg and has a background in aviation and finance. Embraer boasts many customers on the African continent and continues to add new operators. In this episode, we discuss the following: How did the region perform and how did Embraer perform in 2022? What are airline executives in Africa focused on in 2023 and is there a greater need for rightsizing than ever before? The dominant trends for 2023 New projects at Embraer Southern Africa focus. How will the market develop in 2023 and beyond To connect with Stephan Hannemann, click here To connect with Akie Chhabra, click here Find out more about AviaDev Africa here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 235. Announcing a new route incentive programme with Tatamo Rakotozafy, Head of Aeronautical Activities at Ravinala Airports, Madagascar | 13 Dec 2022 | 00:14:56 | |
For today's episode, you find me on location in Istanbul. Back in 2019, we announced that AviaDev would be taking place on the treasure island of Madagascar in 2020 and we started working on the plans for the event. Little did we know that in March 2020, everyone's lives would be turned upside down. The Ravinala Airports team has just announced a really innovative and proactive route incentive program for new routes to Antananarivo and Nosy Be airports. In the podcast, we discuss:
If you are an airline that is interested in finding out more, you can connect with Tatam and receive the full document here: https://ravinala-airports.aero/en/ravinala-airports/offre/ You can connect with Tatamo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatamo-rakotozafy-9a481940/ If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 234. Talking new routes with Martin Gitonga, Head of network planning and alliances, Kenya Airways | 08 Dec 2022 | 00:23:51 | |
For today's episode, we take a flight to the home of AviaDev Africa 2023, Nairobi, Kenya to meet Martin Gitonga, Head of Network Planning and Alliances at Kenya Airways, an airline that plays a vital role in keeping Africa connected to itself and the wider world. In the last month, there have been some exciting new route announcements from the airline. These include a four-weekly flight from Mombasa to Dubai and a twice-weekly Accra- Dakar flight. In this podcast, we discuss: How 2022 has performed from KQ's perspective Why now is the right time to launch Accra/ Dakar The type of traffic is driving the demand? How KQ see the recent progress with SAATM The reasons behind launching Mombasa to Dubai on 15th December. The other routes/ destinations KQ are considering increasing flights to and how interested partners can attract the attention of KQ? The impact AviaDev Africa being hosted in Kenya will deliver for KQ and Kenya generally? | |||
| 233. Recovering and developing the network with David King and Paul van den brink from the Cape Town Air Access team | 29 Nov 2022 | 00:26:08 | |
In this episode, we head back to Cape Town, the host city of AviaDev Africa 2022 to meet David King, Project Manager and Paul van den Brink, Aviation Liaison, from Cape Town Air Access team powered by WESGRO who have overseen a pretty incredible recovery of connectivity since the effects of the pandemic subsided earlier this year. In this episode, we take a look at the domestic, regional and international recovery and get a feel for what's missing from the network. We also discuss the importance of air cargo in route development and how the Air Access team is supporting other African destinations in their drive to improve their air connectivity. | |||
| 232. Outlining TAAG's Intra-African expansion with Eduardo Fairen Soria, CEO | 22 Nov 2022 | 00:22:31 | |
In this episode, we are joined by the CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. TAAG is one of the most interesting airline stories out there currently as it is reinventing itself, expanding its fleet and network and restructuring itself ready for private investment. The man charged with leading this transformation is Eduardo Fairen Soria, an experienced pilot and airline executive who has been involved in numerous airline ventures around the globe. In this session, we meet the man himself, understand the vision and mission of the airline and focus on the new routes being launched which including 2 never served by TAAG before, namely Durban and Accra. We discuss: Eduardo's philosophy when it comes to airline management? Eduardo's mandate for the airline and what are the timelines? Why now is the right time to launch Durban and Accra? Where next within Africa? What do you look and need for in terms of approach from an airport/destination working to attract TAAG? The fleet plans. TAAG have ordered 6 A220s for the airline which should start arriving in January 2023. Will these replace the 737s, compliment them and what will you look to do with the 737s? And the 777s remain for long-haul markets? What about airline partnerships? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 231. Previewing the 54th AFRAA AGA with Maureen Kahonge, Senior Manager Business Development and Communications | 17 Nov 2022 | 00:22:12 | |
Between 11th and 13th December, AFRAA (African Airlines Association) will host the 54th Annual General Assembly in Dakar, Senegal. In this podcast, Maureen joins me to preview the event and provide an outline of what AFRAA's current priorities are for its members. Together we discuss: 🌍 How AFRAA's member airlines are performing? 🛫 The top 3 pressing issues AFRAA are occupied with currently? 🤝 Why the theme of the AGA is "Acing the roadmap to sustainable African aviation"? 🗣️ Who are some of the industry speakers speaking at the AGA? Finally, we look into 2023 to discuss AFRAA's outlook for the industry's prospects. Will it be the year that we finally see liberalization coming to the continent? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 230. A destinations role in attracting retaining and supporting airline development with Bronwen Auret, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at South African Tourism | 11 Nov 2022 | 00:14:11 | |
This podcast was recorded on 7th November 2022 during World Travel Market in London. Joining Jon Howell was Bronwen Auret, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at South African Tourism.
Subscribe to AviaDev Insight Africa for free and never miss another episode | |||
| 229. Plotting a course to attract and retain international air services in South Africa with George Mothema, CEO of Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA). | 03 Nov 2022 | 00:28:25 | |
This podcast was recorded on location during the 52nd AASA AGA in Hermanus, South Africa. We meet George Mothema, the CEO of BARSA to discuss:
You can follow BARSA on LinkedIn here If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 228. Mind the gap! How to bring aviation and tourism stakeholders in Africa closer together with Kojo Bentum-Williams, CEO of VoyagesAfriq | 20 Oct 2022 | 00:25:29 | |
This episode is a special joint episode recorded on location at the stunning Kruger Shalati, train on the bridge. I was joined by Kojo Bentum Williams, CEO of VoyagesAfriq travel media and host of the VA Tourism Podcast, which you can find here Together we took the opportunity to discuss the symbiotic relationship between aviation and tourism and why there is still a disconnect. Together we discussed: 🏖️ the tourism and aviation relationship from the tourism standpoint? 🌍 Whether the focus on domestic and regional tourism markets will endure post-pandemic? 🛫 How we move forwards to get these industries talking more than they do now? If you enjoyed this podcast, please subscribe so you never miss another episode, share it with someone you think will benefit from listening and we look forward to seeing you for the next episode soon | |||
| 227. New routes on the horizon for FlySafair with Kirby Gordon, CMO | 13 Oct 2022 | 00:21:07 | |
🌍 This episode was recorded 13th October, live and on location at the 52nd AASA AGA, in Hermanus, Western Cape. ✈️ The Safair fleet continues to expand and the airline recently secured the right to serve 11 regional destinations. Together, Kirby and I discussed: 🛫 The next steps. What needs to happen to make the regional routes a reality? 🤝 How airport and destination partners can support Safair to bring the airline to their destination ✈️ The fleet plans. Will Safari stick with the 737 family? 🤝how have the airline partnerships that were built during Covid supported the airline's growth trajectory? If you enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe, leave us a review and share it with someone in your network that you think will benefit
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| 343. Dreams Delivered: Flightlink's recent regional expansion with Munawer Dhirani, Managing Director | 20 Jul 2025 | 00:48:23 | |
In this wide-ranging episode, we speak to Munawer Dhirani after the inauguration of Flighlink's new Zanzibar-Nairobi daily service, exploring why now is the right time to open the route. Additionally, we discuss fleet and network expansion objectives, Munawer's origin story, and the whole concept behind Flightlink as an airline. An inspirational story of resilience, enterprise, flexibility, and ultimately success. Find out more about Flightlink www.flightlink.co.tz To watch the sessions from AviaDev Africa, visit https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7pW7r3IP6ehOTKXB2cPE41eY8X2tBVNr&si=M-8jn4uhmPYsGPZh | |||
| 226. ASKY Airlines. Previewing a new route and looking towards further connecting West and Central Africa with Nowel Ngala, Commercial and Ground Operations Director. | 12 Oct 2022 | 00:29:52 | |
🌍 In this episode, we head to west Africa, specifically Togo to speak with a friend of AviaDev, Nowel Ngala, Commercial and Ground Operations director at ASKY Airlines, a private and profitable airline with a strategic partnership with Ethiopian airlines. In the podcast, we discuss: 🛫 Why now is the right time to start services to Sao Tome and Principe 💡 How has 2022 been overall? Has the recovery been above the expected level? ✈️ Fleet plans for the airline. Will ASKY keep a uniform fleet? 🔮 How ASKY views the competitive market in the region, specifically the anticipated launch of Nigeria Air? | |||
| 225. Unlocking new routes in Africa with e-flight with Christine Driessen, Lindo Tshuma and Marcel Langeslag, NACO (Netherlands Airport Consultants) | 07 Oct 2022 | 00:18:11 | |
🔮 Today we are taking a leap into the future as we attempt to understand the opportunity offered to African aviation from new technologies, specifically e-flight. At AviaDev in June 2022, the NACO team delivered a thought-provoking session on this topic, which can be viewed here Accompanying the podcast is a white paper on the subject, which can be downloaded here In the podcast, we discuss: 💡 What inspired the report and what it sets out to understand? 🌿 The sustainable technologies available currently ✈️ Why e-flight, rather than SAF or hydrogen power craft? 🛫 How close we are to commercialised electric flights? 🚧 What are some of the barriers holding back the implementation? 💰 How will we fund the infrastructure required at an airport level? 🌍 What sort of connectivity could this technology offer Africa? 💡 How do we make it a reality? Is it simply a mixture of collaboration and cash? | |||
| 224. Reimagining Namibia's Aviation Landscape. A preview of the Namibia Aviation and Connectivity Forum with Bisey Uirab, CEO of NAC and Verengai Ruswa, Project lead | 04 Oct 2022 | 00:23:38 | |
In this episode, we visit the beautiful country of Namibia to preview the upcoming Namibia Aviation and connectivity forum, which will take place November 16-18 in Windhoek. I am joined by the CEO of the Namibia Airports Company, Mr Bisey Uirab and Verengai Ruswa, the Project Lead for the event. In the episode, we cover: 🛫 The current aviation landscape in Namibia and the path to post-Covid recovery 🛫 What the new strategic partnership and equity investment in FlyNamibia by Airlink means for the country 🛫 How the airport company's strategy has evolved 🛫 Why now is the right time to host the aviation forum and what it aims to achieve? 🛫 The topics to be discussed and some of the speakers that will participate? 🛫 How the team will ensure the findings and results of the deliberations are actionable. 🛫 To find out more, you can visit the event website https://www.namibiaaviationforum.com/ | |||
| 223. Sean Mendis. Looking back at 10 years of Africa World Airlines- an African aviation success story | 22 Sep 2022 | 01:14:29 | |
✈️ The 21st September 2022 marked the 10th anniversary of Africa World Airlines (AWA) 🌍 AWA is a domestic and regional airline operating a fleet of Embraer ERJ 145s from a base in Ghana. Sean Mendis was employee #1 at the airline. In this episode, Sean tells the full story of how the airline was conceived, structured and how it has become the success we know today. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the complexity and difficulties of setting up an airline in Africa. To see the images, you can also watch the episode on youtube | |||
| 222. Aaron Munetsi, CEO Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) and Tatum Kok, Aviation Analyst. A look back on the first year and a sneak preview of the upcoming AASA AGA | 08 Sep 2022 | 00:41:54 | |
In this podcast, I am joined by Aaron Munetsi, CEO and Tatum Kok, Aviation Analyst from the Airlines Association of Southern Africa. In the podcast, we discuss: ✈️ Aaron's first 12 months at the helm of AASA ✈️ How to manage a group of stakeholders that are in constant co-opertition? ✈️ How AASA is engaging airlines from outside the region ✈️ The recovery of the industry. Are we on track and what more needs to be done to support? ✈️ The state of connectivity in the region and initiatives to open skies, borders and improve collaboration ✈️ The overall theme of the upcoming Annual General Assembly and what to expect The AGA will take place at the Arabella Hotel 13-16th October 2022. #myafricandream #aasa You can find out more about AASA by visiting the website www.aasa.za.net and following on LinkedIn and Twitter If you enjoyed this podcast, don't keep it to yourself. hit the share button now and maybe even leave us a 5 ⭐ review in the apple store | |||
| 221. A spotlight on Kuva Air, with Chairman, James Saruchera. Emerging from the cocoon and spreading its wings | 09 Aug 2022 | 00:20:25 | |
In this episode, we speak to Chairman of Kuva Air, James Saruchera. Kuva Air attended AviaDev Africa for the first time in June 2022 and we pride ourselves on supporting all airlines that have an active Air Operating Certificate Kuva is a Domestic Zimbabwean airline with a difference. The airline operates an Embraer 120 serving Harare, Victoria Falls and Kariba and they started service in late May 2022. In this episode, we discover: 🛫 The big idea of the airline 🌍 The fleet and route plans 🦋 The story behind the brand 👩💻 How the blockchain can change the game in aviation To find out more visit https://kuva-air.com/ or follow @kuvaair on Twitter and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it with your network
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| 220. Throwback to AviaDev Africa 2017. Ato Girma Wake receives the lifetime achievement award | 15 Jul 2022 | 00:26:45 | |
A real highlight of the event is presenting the Ato Girma Wake Award for an outstanding contribution to route development in Africa. This year's winner was Sanjeev Gadhia CEO of Astral aviation and that episode is freely available on the podcast as episode 212. However, we couldn't resist dipping into the back catalog to release the interview AviaDev CEO Jon Howell did with Ato Girma back on stage in Kigali at AviaDev 2017. In this episode, you will hear Girma talk about the following: 🛫 His career journey 🛫 What he would have been if he hadn't become an aviator 🛫 Ethiopian Airlines growth strategy 🛫 The national carrier conundrum 🛫 SAATM Watch out for the incredible anecdote about a meeting with Sir Richard Branson. If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with someone you feel would benefit from listening and leave us a review on apple podcasts. | |||
| 219. AviaDev Africa 2022 event series. Panel session 5. "Implementing practical technology to propel African aviation" moderated by Refilwe Ledwaba, Founder, Girls Fly Programme for Africa | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:51:15 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 📲 The topic was "Implementing practical technology to propel African aviation" ✈️ How can airlines and airports take advantage of accessible, affordable technologies and an ever more connected world to deliver cost savings and a better customer experience? Your moderator for this session is Refilwe Ledwaba, Founder, girls Fly Programme for Africa You will hear from the following panelists:
If you enjoyed the session, please share it with someone in your network that would benefit from listening | |||
| 218. AviaDev Africa 2022 Event series. Panel session 1. "Building profitable, sustainable and equitable airline partnerships" moderated by Ato Girma Wake, AviaDev Patron and Board Chairman, Ethiopian Airlines | 05 Jul 2022 | 01:02:51 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 🤝 The topic was "Building profitable, sustainable and equitable airline partnerships" 🛫 The recent past has seen an increasing trend towards interlining and co-operation between airlines. How are these performing and what are the potential pitfalls to avoid? How do we ensure that all partners are treated and compensated fairly? Your moderator for this session is Ato Girma Wake, AviaDev Patron and Board Chairman, Ethiopian Airlines You will hear from the following panelists:
If you enjoyed the session, please share it with someone in your network that would benefit from listening | |||
| 217. AviaDev Africa 2022 event series. Panel session 4. "Where are the opportunities for the OEMs in Africa?" moderated by Joanna Bailey, Managing Editor, Simple Flying | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:50:44 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 📦 The topic was "Where are the opportunities for the OEMs in Africa?" ✈️ How will the African fleet mix develop? Is the freighter business here to stay? What role will sustainability play in the future of African aviation? Your moderator for this session is Joanna Bailey, Managing Editor, Simple Flying You will hear from the following panelists:
If you enjoyed the session, please share it with someone in your network that would benefit from listening | |||
| 342. (Re)-Introducing The Fighter Pilot and CEO podcast | 17 Jul 2025 | 00:37:23 | |
In this episode, I share the first episode of a podcast series I hosted and recorded back in 2021, entitled "The Fighter Pilot and the CEO" The focus of this particular episode is a conversation about whether leaders are born or made and the role of culture and education in forming effective leaders. If you enjoyed it, you can listen to the full series on the podcast platform of your choice by searching "Fighter pilot and the CEO" or head here https://www.fighterpilotandceo.com/podcasts/ Representing the C-suite was Peter Davies, someone who brings over 40 years of boardroom and airline experience, having served as CEO of multiple airlines, including Brussels Airlines, Air Malta, and Caribbean Airlines, and now the Founder and CEO of Airline Management Group. Joining Peter on the flight deck was Andy Wright, a retired wing commander from the Royal Air Force.
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| 216. AviaDev Africa 2022 Event series. Panel session 3. Diversifying African airport revenue to build resilience moderated by Marcel Langeslag, Director Aviation Africa, NACO (Netherlands Airport Consultants) | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:46:47 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 💵 The topic was "Diversifying African airport revenue to build resilience" ✈️ 72% of operating revenue at African airports is derived from aeronautical sources. Covid exposed the need for airports to diversify their revenue, but how can this be done without huge capital expenditure? Your moderator for this session is Marcel Langeslag, Director Africa Aviation, NACO (Netherlands Airport Consultants) You will hear from the following panelists:
If you enjoyed the session, please share it with someone in your network that would benefit from listening | |||
| 215. AviaDev Africa 2022 event series. Panel session 2. Air cargo's role in route development in Africa moderated by John Grant, Partner AviaDev Consult powered by MIDAS aviation | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:52:21 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 📦 The topic was "Air cargo's role in route development in Africa" ✈️ The discipline of air service development has changed forever. Air freight is playing an ever-increasing role in assessing the viability of new routes. Against the shifting sands of rapidly changing health and travel protocols, airline planners have had to be more responsive than ever before. Is this trend here to stay or are airlines taking a longer-term view? Your moderator for this session is John Grant, You will hear from the following panelists:
If you enjoyed the session, please share it with someone in your network that would benefit from listening | |||
| 214. AviaDev Africa 2022 Event Series. PANEL SESSION 6. Financing African Airlines moderated by Sean Mendis, Aviation Expert. | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:47:24 | |
🎤 This is a live session recording from the 1st July at AviaDev Africa 2022. 💵 The topic was "Financing African airlines. Navigating the route to profitability" ✈️ To buy, lease or look for creative, shorter-term solutions? What are the relative merits of each option and where can finance be found? Your moderator for this session is Sean Mendis, Aviation Expert You will hear from the following panellists:
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