Qatar Airways has markedly increased its investment in Africa by acquiring a 25 percent stake in South Africa’s regional airline Airlink.
This strategic move not only broadens Qatar Airways’ portfolio of airline investments but also underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity across the African continent.
Qatar Airways chief executive Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said the acquisition of Airlink represented a significant milestone in the Doha-based airline’s ongoing expansion efforts in Africa.
“Africa is very important for us, and it is really underserved as a continent,” Al-Meer said.
He noted that Africa accounts for 18 percent of the world’s population while remaining inadequately served in terms of air connectivity.
The privately owned Airlink has emerged as a pivotal player in African aviation, offering services to over 45 destinations across 15 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition to its stake in Airlink, Qatar Airways is reportedly finalising a long-anticipated investment in Rwanda’s state-owned airline, RwandAir, where it plans to acquire a 49 percent stake.
This dual investment strategy is designed to amplify Qatar Airways’ access to passengers from regional African cities and strengthen its competitive position in the burgeoning African aviation market.
JN/APA