Astral Aviation Delays EU AOC to Focus on Africa, Asia Growth
Kenya-based Astral Aviation has postponed its plans to obtain a European air operator’s certificate (AOC), choosing instead to concentrate on expanding operations in Africa and Asia. CEO Sanjeev Gadhia confirmed the shift in strategy during an interview with Air Cargo News.
Initially, Astral had considered acquiring a European AOC in Malta or Ireland. However, Gadhia stated that the airline now sees more growth potential in China and Africa, citing a decline in airfreight volumes from Europe to Africa, partly due to the strength of the euro.
Astral Aviation is now pursuing a pan-African growth strategy, supported by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The airline is developing a three-hub network, with existing hubs in Nairobi and Johannesburg, and connections to Hong Kong.
Gadhia also holds a 25% stake in Suid Cargo Airlines, based in Johannesburg. Suid Cargo recently received its international air service license and is awaiting final certification. It currently owns a Boeing 737-300(F) and plans to launch scheduled cargo services and grow its fleet.
Astral Aviation has been modernizing its fleet by retiring older aircraft such as the Boeing 757-200(PCF), 727-200(F), and DC-9-30(CF). The airline currently operates a Boeing 737-400(SF) and a Boeing 767-200(SF), both leased from Avmax. Fleet expansion plans include adding a Boeing 767-300F in early 2025, a second 737-400(SF) in late 2025, and two Boeing 737-800 freighters in 2026 and 2027.
Related News: https://suspicious-zhukovsky.67-21-117-18.plesk.page/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com