As a continuation of Kenya Airways' (KQ) cargo codeshare partnership with Congo Airways, established earlier this year, KQ will lease two of its Embraer E190 aircraft to the Democratic Republic of Congo-based (DRC) carrier.
KQ said the partnership "strengthens collaboration and bolsters aviation ties between Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), actualising the Memorandum of Understanding between Kenya Airways and Congo Airways signed in April 2021".
The carrier added that "Kenya is seeking to leverage the DRC market by diversifying its export destinations, given the Covid-19-induced disruption, which has highlighted the need for deeper inter-regional trade".
Kenya Airways' group managing director and chief executive Allan Kilavuka, commented: "KQ is a key player in the aviation space in Africa, and with over 40 years of experience, this is an important step in enhancing cooperation to increase air connectivity and offer greater passenger and cargo options between the two countries. The timing of this agreement is correct, considering the severe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation industry, as it will increase the utilisation of our aircraft.”
Congo Airways’ chief executive Pascal Kasongo Mwema Mwenda, added: "Increased air connectivity will offer more choices to passengers in the DRC and between the two countries. It will also provide better connectivity to international destinations, enabling both countries to fly to a better future and build a resilient aviation industry that can stand the test of time."
Additionally, Kenya Airways has launched direct cargo flights from Johannesburg, South Africa, to Lubumbashi, DRC.
