Belgian airline Air Belgium has made the decision to discontinue its passenger flights to South Africa and Mauritius, effective October 3, 2023. This move comes as the airline grapples with financial challenges and seeks to reshape its operational strategy.
Air Belgium, which ventured into passenger services just five years ago in 2018, had been directing its efforts towards connecting travelers to the captivating destinations of South Africa and Mauritius. Notably, these flights included routes between Brussels and Johannesburg, with connecting flights to the picturesque Cape Town. These routes represented the first direct links between South Africa and Belgium since the closure of Sabena Airlines in 2001.
These destinations held promise for the airline, offering unique travel experiences and catering to diverse customer demands. However, the harsh realities of the aviation industry have forced a change in course. The airline announced on Monday (September 18) that all passenger flights would be suspended on October 3rd.
The decision to cease operations on these routes can be attributed to a combination of factors that have created an unsustainable environment for Air Belgium. According to aviation website Flightglobal, the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical uncertainties such as the Ukraine conflict, soaring jet fuel prices, and rampant inflation have collectively eroded the profitability of these routes.
As the airline’s management assessed the situation, it became clear that passing on the escalating fixed costs to passengers through increased ticket prices was not a viable option. This realization led to the earlier cancellation of flights to the Caribbean and the French Antilles, regions where price sensitivity among travelers was particularly acute.
Following Air Belgium's announcement on 18 September that it will be ceasing passenger flights to Mauritius and South Africa as from 3 October, a FAQ is currently being prepared and teams are being reinforced to answer all passenger questions. All our teams are mobilised.
— Air Belgium (@Airbelgium) September 18, 2023
In a statement issued by Air Belgium, the airline expressed its commitment to protecting its cargo and aircraft leasing businesses. The decision to suspend passenger flights to South Africa and Mauritius is a strategic realignment aimed at ensuring the company’s long-term viability. Simultaneously, Air Belgium has embarked on a judicial reorganization process to address its debt situation with creditors.
Air Belgium’s fleet consists of three Boeing 747-8 Fs, which are operated for major shareholder Hongyuan Group. It also owns three Airbus A330 converted freighters, two of which also fly for the Chinese and one for CMA-CGM. The airline also operates two Airbus A330-200 and two A330-900 .
