Recent events in Niger have shaken the nation, with an attempted coup leading to the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum. As the political situation remains tense, one of the critical impacts has been on the country’s aviation sector.
The attempted coup in Niger began when an elite unit of the army declared the sitting President, Mohamed Bazoum, deposed from office. However, what ensued was an apparent divide within the military ranks, with the military leadership reportedly siding with the coup plotters. This internal strife has created uncertainty and instability within the country, leading to several measures, including the closure of Nigerien airspace.
Aviation Impact
As the political situation continues to unfold, Nigerien airspace remains closed, leading to significant disruptions in air travel and leaving many passengers stranded. Niamey-Diori Hamani Airport has been severely impacted, with no flights operating for two consecutive days after the coup. This disruption has led to cancellations by major airlines, including Air France and Royal Air Maroc. The closure of borders and the imposition of a curfew by the coup leaders have exacerbated the situation, making it impossible for flights to operate in and out of the capital.
Airlines operating in and out of Niamey Airport have been significantly impacted by the airport’s closure. Major carriers, including Air France and Royal Air Maroc, have already canceled their scheduled flights. Royal Air Maroc had to cancel its flight between Casablanca and Niamey, while Air France canceled its Saturday flight from Paris-CDG, which would have made a stop in Lomé, Togo.
The cancellations extend beyond the current week, with flights scheduled for the upcoming days facing uncertainties. Passengers have been left in limbo, unsure if their flights will proceed as planned or face further cancellations or restrictions.
The effects of the coup have rippled beyond just Air France and Royal Air Maroc. Several other airlines have had to adjust their operations and cancel flights to and from Niamey Airport. Ethiopian Airlines, Asky Airlines, Air Côte d’Ivoire, Air Algérie, and Turkish Airlines are among those that have canceled or altered their flights.
Arrivée ce Jeudi 13 Juillet 2023 du 1er vol retour du Hajj 2023 de la compagnie ETHIOPIAN avec à son bord 267 pèlerins.
Nous souhaitons un Bon retour à tous les pèlerins!
We wish a safe return to all pilgrims!#Hadj2023 #Niger #transport #aviation #airports #summaairports pic.twitter.com/gS0o2XnB2K— Niamey Airport (@AirportNiamey) July 14, 2023
The impact of the coup on Niger’s aviation industry remains uncertain. As the political crisis continues to unfold in Niger, it remains at a critical juncture, grappling with the aftermath of a coup d’état that has left its main airport without a plane and its people uncertain about what the future holds.