Eswatini Air, the flag carrier of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has taken to the skies with two Embraer ERJ 145 jets on Sunday, flying to destinations in South Africa and Zimbabwe. The airline’s first flights departed from King Mswati III International Airport in Manzini to Harare and Johannesburg.
The ERJ 145 planes incorporated by Eswatini Air were delivered by Embraer in 1998 and 1999, respectively, and previously operated by Hop!, Air France’s regional flights division. The jets are leased from Acia Aero Capital, a Turkish leasing company.
Africa’s newest airline Eswatini Air carried out its inaugural flight using an Embraer ERJ-145 to O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB/FAOR), Johannesburg from from King Mswati III International Airport (SHO/FDSK) on 26 March.#airline #africa #startup #inauguration pic.twitter.com/OjGDglrgbJ
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) March 27, 2023
Eswatini Air had initially planned to commence operations in June 2022 but was only able to obtain its operation certificates at the end of last year. The airline plans to expand its services with new routes to Durban and Cape Town in South Africa, starting in May or June.
The launch of Eswatini Air is a significant development for the aviation industry in Africa, as it provides the Kingdom of Eswatini with its own national airline, which will offer passengers greater connectivity to destinations in the region. Eswatini Air also presents an opportunity for the country to develop its tourism industry by making it more accessible to international travelers.
The success of Eswatini Air will depend on a range of factors, including its ability to offer competitive prices, high-quality services, and efficient operations. It will also face competition from established airlines in the region. However, with the support of the government and the people of Eswatini, Eswatini Air has the potential to become a successful and sustainable carrier.
The launch of Eswatini Air marks an important milestone for the Kingdom of Eswatini and the African aviation industry. It is a testament to the country’s commitment to developing its economy and improving connectivity within the region. As the airline expands its services and reaches new heights, it will contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Kingdom of Eswatini and the African continent as a whole.
