289. AviaDev's May 2024 Connectivity Update with Sean Mendis, Aviation Consultant and Dr James Pearson, Analyst, Simple Flying

Welcome to the eighth edition of AviaDev Insight Africa's 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, and Dr. James Pearson, Analyst at Simple Flying.  Together, we discuss: Norse Atlantic Airways, a new carrier for Africa, is launching a three times a week operation from Gatwick in London to Cape Town International. Jon recently interviewed Norse, so if you want to hear more listen here EasyJet's expansion into Cape Verde. Could this move be the start of a trend of major European low-cost carriers expanding into sub-Saharan markets? Ethiopian Airlines' launch of the Warsaw route using the Boeing 737 MAX indicates their expansion into secondary markets in Europe. This strategy allows them to tap into niche markets and connect with their hub in Addis Ababa. ASKY Airlines has made schedule changes to improve the utility of their aircraft and enhance their economics. They have swapped some of their routing and are focusing on maximizing connectivity through their hub in Lomé, Togo. Etihad's postponed launch to Nairobi was attributed to paperwork issues or delays in obtaining the operating permit. The success of this route remains uncertain, given the competition from other airlines serving the Nairobi market.  The impact of political instability and restricted airspace which continue to pose challenges for airlines operating in Africa. RUMOUR MILL Emirates return to Nigeria (this has since been confirmed) Air Asia's plans for Africa  Uganda Airlines proposed Boeing order and Abu Dhabi route Air Peace looking at Abuja-London Air Canada looking at African markets SA flights to Thailand Subscribe to James' newsletter here  Read James' articles here Connect with James on LinkedIn here Connect with Sean on LinkedIn here  If you enjoyed the conversation, please share the episode with your network and leave us a review so we can be found by more people.