Commercial Aviation
Airbus Opens Johannesburg Support Centre to Boost African Aviation Growth
Airbus expands in Africa with a Johannesburg centre providing technical support and training to meet growing aviation demand.
Airbus has deepened its commitment to the African aviation sector with the inauguration of a new Customer Support Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in the company’s nearly five-decade presence on the continent. The centre is designed to provide comprehensive support for Airbus commercial aircraft operators across Africa, a region experiencing a surge in air travel demand and facing a critical need for aviation infrastructure and workforce development.
The new facility is not only a technical hub but also a symbol of Airbus’ confidence in Africa’s potential. With nearly 40 African airlines operating over 260 Airbus aircraft, the continent represents a growing market. Airbus projects that Africa will require 14,000 new pilots and 21,000 mechanics and engineers over the next two decades to sustain its aviation growth. The Johannesburg centre aims to address these needs while aligning with broader regional initiatives like the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seeks to liberalize air travel across 38 participating nations.
While the outlook is optimistic, the African aviation sector still faces structural challenges. These include high operational costs, limited aircraft availability, and declining cargo demand. The Johannesburg Support Centre is positioned to help mitigate these issues by offering localized support and fostering regional resilience in aerospace operations.
Airbus’ journey in Africa began in 1976 with the delivery of the first A300 aircraft to the continent. Since then, the company has steadily expanded its footprint, now supporting a diverse fleet through its three divisions: Commercial-Aircraft, Helicopters, and Defence and Space. Today, Airbus aircraft are operated by nearly 40 African Airlines, including major carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, and Royal Air Maroc.
Beyond commercial aviation, Airbus Helicopters maintains a strong presence with over 500 rotorcraft deployed for both civil and military applications. The Defence and Space division supports 20 African governments with tactical aircraft, Earth observation capabilities, and satellite solutions. These services play a critical role in enhancing national security, disaster response, and infrastructure monitoring.
Airbus has also cultivated a strong industrial presence in Africa. The company collaborates with over 180 African suppliers, integrating them into its global supply chain. This approach not only supports local economies but also facilitates technology transfer and skills development. The Johannesburg centre builds on this foundation, reinforcing Airbus’ long-term commitment to sustainable aerospace development in Africa.
Opened on July 23, 2025, the Johannesburg Customer Support Centre is designed to provide end-to-end support for Airbus’ commercial aircraft families: A220, A320, A330, and A350. The centre’s services include technical assistance, engineering and maintenance solutions, fleet performance analysis, training programs, and on-site operational support. These offerings aim to reduce aircraft downtime and enhance fleet efficiency for African operators.
One of the centre’s key features is its training capability. With Africa facing a projected shortage of aviation professionals, the facility offers localized training programs to build a robust talent pipeline. These include simulator-based instruction, hands-on maintenance training, and operational workshops tailored to the needs of regional carriers. The strategic rationale behind the centre is clear. As Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus Middle East and Africa, stated, the facility “expands Airbus’ presence in Africa and underscores our confidence in the region’s potential, as we invest in local capabilities, empower our customers, and drive shared progress.”
“Africa is key to Airbus. Today we are expanding our footprint. We are here to support growth.”, Nam-Binh Hoang, Managing Director, Airbus Southern Africa
The Johannesburg centre’s launch coincides with the 30th anniversary of Airbus Helicopters in Southern Africa. This milestone is marked by the introduction of Africa’s first H125 virtual reality simulator, located at the Midrand hub. The simulator supports pilot training in a safe and immersive environment, reducing the cost and complexity of conventional flight training.
This investment in technology reflects Airbus’ broader strategy to enhance regional aviation capabilities. By integrating advanced tools and localized services, the company aims to foster a self-sustaining aerospace ecosystem. These innovations are particularly important for smaller carriers and emerging markets that often lack access to such resources.
Moreover, the Johannesburg centre serves as a regional anchor for Airbus’ wider network of support services across Africa. It complements existing facilities and partnerships, creating a more resilient and responsive support infrastructure tailored to the continent’s unique operational needs.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Africa’s revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) grew by 13.3% in 2024, with Northern Africa leading the surge at 18% year-on-year growth in early 2025. This trend underscores the continent’s growing appetite for air travel, driven by rising incomes, urbanization, and economic integration.
Looking ahead, IATA projects that Africa’s passenger traffic will more than double by 2043, reaching 345 million annually. To accommodate this growth, the continent will need approximately 1,460 new aircraft and a significant expansion of airport and air traffic management infrastructure. Initiatives like SAATM are pivotal in this context, promising to reduce airfares, increase flight options, and stimulate regional trade.
However, infrastructure development must keep pace with demand. Many African airports are operating at or near capacity, and regulatory fragmentation continues to hinder cross-border operations. As Dean Khumalo of the South African Civil Aviation Authority notes, original equipment OEMs like Airbus play a “catalytic role in unlocking local capability” and supporting regional integration.
Despite strong growth prospects, African airlines face considerable operational challenges. In 2025, fuel costs account for 40% of operating expenses for African carriers, compared to a global average of 25%. Additionally, taxes and navigation charges in Africa exceed global norms by 12–15%, further squeezing margins. Aircraft shortages have also emerged as a critical issue. Global supply chain disruptions have left African airlines operating with fleets that are approximately 30% below pre-pandemic delivery levels. This shortfall limits route expansion and constrains revenue growth.
The cargo sector, once a lifeline during the pandemic, has also seen a downturn. Air freight demand in Africa declined by 8.9% in early 2025, reflecting global trade tensions and reduced export activity. These challenges contribute to the region’s modest profitability outlook; IATA forecasts that African carriers will earn just $200 million in profits in 2025, the smallest share globally.
Airbus’ operations in Africa contribute significantly to local economies. The company procures over $1 billion annually from African suppliers, supporting jobs and manufacturing capabilities across the continent. The Johannesburg centre enhances this impact by investing in workforce development and technical training.
To meet the projected demand for 35,000 new aviation professionals by 2043, Airbus is rolling out training programs in collaboration with local institutions. These initiatives aim to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting both domestic and international aviation operations.
Technology transfer is another critical component. Airbus’ Partnerships with institutions like the Namibia Space Data Centre exemplify its role in fostering indigenous innovation. These collaborations enable African countries to develop their own aerospace capabilities, from satellite data analysis to aircraft maintenance and design.
The success of SAATM depends on harmonized infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. The accession of Malawi as the 38th signatory in February 2025 signals growing momentum, but challenges remain. Disparate aviation policies and limited intergovernmental coordination continue to impede full implementation.
Airbus is actively engaging with policymakers and industry stakeholders to support SAATM’s objectives. Laurent Negre, Vice President of Customer Services for Airbus Africa, highlights the importance of “building an ecosystem that works long-term” to support the continent’s projected tripling of fleet size by 2043.
By aligning its services with regional policy goals, Airbus is helping to create a more integrated and efficient aviation landscape. This alignment is essential for unlocking the full economic potential of Africa’s air transport sector. The opening of Airbus’ Johannesburg Customer Support Centre represents a strategic investment in Africa’s aviation future. By providing localized technical support, training, and fleet optimization services, the centre addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing African carriers. It also reinforces Airbus’ long-term commitment to the continent’s economic and technological development.
As Africa’s aviation market continues to grow, the need for integrated support systems and policy alignment will become increasingly critical. Airbus’ efforts, from virtual reality simulators to supply chain partnerships, position it as a key enabler of regional connectivity and innovation. The centre’s true legacy will be measured not just in operational metrics, but in its contribution to building a unified and resilient African aviation ecosystem.
What services does the Johannesburg Customer Support Centre provide? Why is Airbus investing in Africa? What is SAATM and how does it relate to Airbus? Sources:
Airbus Expands African Footprint with Johannesburg Customer Support Centre: Catalysing Aviation Growth and Regional Integration
Historical Context of Airbus in Africa
The Johannesburg Support Centre: Capabilities and Strategic Rationale
Technological Innovation and Regional Synergy
Africa’s Aviation Sector: Growth Drivers and Persistent Challenges
Market Expansion and Infrastructure Demands
Operational and Economic Headwinds
Broader Socioeconomic Implications
Workforce Development and Industrial Integration
Continental Connectivity and Policy Alignment
Conclusion and Future Outlook
FAQ
The centre offers technical assistance, maintenance solutions, fleet performance analytics, training programs, and on-site support for Airbus commercial aircraft.
Africa is a growing aviation market with increasing passenger demand. Airbus aims to support this growth through localized services, workforce development, and infrastructure investment.
The Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) is an African Union initiative to liberalize air travel across the continent. Airbus supports its goals by enhancing regional connectivity and providing technical support to airlines.
Airbus,
IATA,
African Union
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia
Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.
On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.
The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.
In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.
“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals. AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.
“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”
, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation
The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.
By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.
Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.
Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation
Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR
Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities
Strategic Network Expansion
AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Airlines Strategy
Kenya Airways Plans Secondary Hub in Accra with Project Kifaru
Kenya Airways advances plans for a secondary hub at Accra’s Kotoka Airport, leveraging partnerships and regional aircraft to boost intra-African connectivity.
This article summarizes reporting by AFRAA and official statements from Kenya Airways.
Kenya Airways (KQ) is moving forward with strategic plans to establish a secondary operational hub at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. According to reporting by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and recent company statements, this initiative represents a critical pillar of “Project Kifaru,” the airlines‘s three-year recovery and growth roadmap.
The proposed expansion aims to deepen intra-African connectivity by positioning Accra as a pivotal node for West African operations. Rather than launching a wholly-owned subsidiary, a model that requires heavy capital expenditure, Kenya Airways intends to utilize a partnership-driven approach, leveraging existing relationships with regional carriers to feed long-haul networks.
While the Kenyan government formally requested permission for the hub in May 2025, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed in December 2025 that the plan remains under active study. A final decision on the full execution of the project is expected in 2026.
The core of the Accra strategy involves basing aircraft directly in West Africa to serve high-demand regional routes. According to details emerging from the planning phase, Kenya Airways intends to deploy three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft to Kotoka International Airport. These aircraft will facilitate regional connections, feeding passengers into the carrier’s long-haul network and supporting the logistics needs of the region.
This operational shift marks a departure from the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model centered exclusively on Nairobi. By establishing a presence in Ghana, KQ aims to capture traffic in a market currently dominated by competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines (via its ASKY partner in Lomé) and Air Côte d’Ivoire.
A key component of this strategy is the airline’s collaboration with Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA). Kenya Airways signed a codeshare agreement with AWA in May 2022. This partnership allows KQ to connect passengers from its Nairobi-Accra service to AWA’s domestic and regional network, covering destinations like Kumasi, Takoradi, Lagos, and Abuja.
Industry observers note that this “capital-light” model reduces the financial risks associated with starting a new airline from scratch. Instead of competing directly on every thin route, KQ can rely on AWA to provide feed traffic while focusing its own metal on key trunk routes. The push for a West African hub comes as Kenya Airways navigates a complex financial recovery. The airline reported a significant milestone in the 2024 full financial year, posting an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion and a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, its first profit in 11 years. This resurgence provided the initial confidence to pursue the growth phase of Project Kifaru.
However, the first half of 2025 presented renewed challenges. The airline reported a Ksh 12.2 billion loss for the period, attributed largely to currency volatility and the grounding of its Boeing 787 fleet due to global spare parts shortages. These financial realities underscore the necessity of the proposed low-capital expansion model in Accra.
The strategy focuses on collaboration with existing African carriers rather than creating a new airline from scratch.
, Summary of Kenya Airways’ strategic approach
The viability of the Accra hub relies heavily on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and “Fifth Freedom” rights, which allow an airline to fly between two foreign countries. West Africa has been a leader in implementing these protocols, making Accra a legally feasible location for a secondary hub.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat is headquartered in Accra. Kenya Airways is positioning itself to support the trade bloc by facilitating the movement of people and cargo between East and West Africa. The airline has already introduced Boeing 737-800 freighters to serve key destinations including Lagos, Dakar, Freetown, and Monrovia.
The decision to delay a final “go/no-go” confirmation until 2026 suggests a prudent approach by Kenya Airways management. While the West African market is lucrative, it is also saturated with aggressive competitors like Air Peace and the well-entrenched ASKY/Ethiopian Airlines alliance. By opting for a partnership model with Africa World Airlines rather than a full subsidiary, KQ avoids the “cash burn” trap that led to the collapse of previous pan-African airline ventures. If successful, this could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized African carriers looking to expand without overleveraging their balance sheets.
What aircraft will be based in Accra? When will the hub become operational? How does this affect the Nairobi hub?
Kenya Airways Advances Plans for Secondary Hub in Accra Under ‘Project Kifaru’
Operational Strategy: The ‘Mini-Hub’ Model
Partnership with Africa World Airlines
Financial Context and ‘Project Kifaru’
Regulatory Landscape and Competition
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Current plans indicate that Kenya Airways intends to base three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft at Kotoka International Airport.
While planning is underway and government requests have been filed, a final decision on full execution is not expected until 2026.
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) remains the primary hub. The Accra facility is designed as a secondary node to improve regional connectivity and feed traffic back into the global network.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer – E190
Commercial Aviation
Derazona Helicopters Receives First H160 for Energy Missions in Southeast Asia
Airbus delivers the first H160 to Derazona Helicopters in Indonesia, enhancing offshore oil and gas transport with advanced fuel-efficient technology.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus Helicopters.
On December 19, 2025, Airbus Helicopters officially delivered the first H160 rotorcraft to Derazona Helicopters (PT. Derazona Air Service) in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to the manufacturer’s announcement, this delivery represents a significant regional milestone, as Derazona becomes the first operator in Southeast Asia to utilize the H160 specifically for energy sector missions, including offshore oil and gas transport.
The handover marks the culmination of a strategic acquisition process that began with an initial order in April 2021. Derazona, a historic Indonesian aviation company established in 1971, intends to deploy the medium-class helicopter for a variety of critical missions, ranging from offshore transport to utility operations and commercial passenger services.
The introduction of the H160 into the Indonesian market signals a shift toward modernizing aging fleets in the archipelago. Derazona Helicopters stated that the aircraft will play a pivotal role in their expansion within the oil and gas sector, a primary economic driver for the region.
In a statement regarding the delivery, Ramadi Widyardiono, Director of Production at Derazona Helicopters, emphasized the operational advantages of the new airframe:
“The arrival of our first H160 marks an exciting chapter for Derazona Helicopters. As the pioneer operator of this aircraft for energy missions in Southeast Asia, we are eager to deploy its unique capabilities to serve our various clients with the highest levels of safety and efficiency. The H160’s proven performance will be key to reinforcing our position as a leader in helicopter services in Southeast Asia.”
Airbus executives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for the demanding geography of Indonesia. Regis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts at Airbus Helicopters, noted the importance of this partnership:
“We are proud to see the H160 enter service in Southeast Asia, cementing our relationship with Derazona as they become the region’s launch customer for energy missions. The H160 represents a true generational leap, built to be an efficient, reliable, and comfortable workhorse, perfectly suited for the demanding operational requirements of the Indonesian energy sector.”
According to technical data provided by Airbus, the H160 is designed to replace previous-generation medium helicopters such as the AS365 Dauphin and H155. The aircraft incorporates several proprietary technologies aimed at improving safety and reducing environmental impact.
Key technical features cited in the release include: Airbus claims the H160 delivers a 15% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous generation engines, aligning with the energy sector’s increasing focus on reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions in their logistics supply chains.
The delivery of the H160 to Derazona Helicopters reflects a broader trend we are observing across the Asia-Pacific aviation market: the prioritization of “eco-efficient” logistics. As oil and gas majors face stricter carbon reporting requirements, the pressure cascades down to their logistics providers.
By adopting the H160, Derazona is not merely upgrading its fleet age; it is positioning itself competitively to bid for contracts with energy multinationals that now weigh carbon footprint heavily in their tender processes. The move away from legacy airframes like the Bell 412 or Sikorsky S-76 toward next-generation composite aircraft suggests that fuel efficiency is becoming as critical a metric as payload capacity in the offshore sector.
Who is the operator of the new H160? What is the primary use of this aircraft? How does the H160 improve upon older helicopters? When was this specific aircraft ordered? Sources: Airbus Helicopters Press Release
Derazona Helicopters Becomes Southeast Asia’s First H160 Energy Operator
Modernizing Indonesia’s Energy Fleet
Technical Profile: The H160
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The operator is PT. Derazona Air Service (Derazona Helicopters), an Indonesian aviation company headquartered at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta.
It will be used primarily for offshore energy transport (supporting oil rigs), as well as utility missions and VIP transport.
The H160 offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption, significantly lower noise levels due to Blue Edge™ blades, and advanced Helionix® avionics for improved safety.
Derazona originally placed the order for this H160 in April 2021.
Photo Credit: Airbus
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