RwandAir CEO Plans to Double Fleet, Expand African Routes

RwandAir plans to double its fleet over the next five years and expand its route network across Eastern and Southern Africa, according to CEO Yvonne Makolo. Speaking at the African Airlines Association’s (AFRAA) Aviation Stakeholders Convention and African Aviation Safety & Operations Summit held in Kigali from May 12–14, 2025, Makolo outlined the airline’s strategic pivot toward regional growth.

The airline is preparing to launch direct flights to Mombasa and Zanzibar, targeting underserved destinations to offset losses from the ongoing closure of Democratic Republic of Congo’s airspace to Rwandan carriers. As a result, RwandAir has suspended services to Brazzaville, Abuja, and Cotonou but is redirecting capacity to boost frequencies in Eastern and Southern Africa.

RwandAir currently operates 28 routes across 21 destinations in 18 countries. Its fleet includes 14 aircraft: two A330-200s, one A330-300, five B737-800s, one B737-300, one B737-800 freighter, two CRJ900ERs, and two DHC-8-Q400s. The carrier plans to expand its fleet size to support revenue growth and new market entries.

Financially, RwandAir reported strong recovery in 2023, with revenue rising by 82% to RWF620.6 billion (USD435 million), up from RWF341 billion (USD238 million) in 2022. This reversed a multi-year decline between 2019 and 2021.

Makolo cited high operating costs in Africa—driven by fuel, taxes, maintenance, and airport charges—as key challenges. She said the airline is working with governments and airports to reduce fees while internally focusing on cost-efficiency through fuel-saving measures and fleet simplification.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com