Congo Airways Relaunches Operations with Embraer E190 to Unlock DRC’s Tourism Potential

Congo Airways, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) flagship carrier, has revealed plans to resume full operations in the first quarter of 2026, incorporating the efficient Embraer E190 regional jet into its fleet. 

Following a prolonged period of suspended services due to financial and operational hurdles, this revival underscores the airline’s determination to strengthen domestic and regional air links while capitalising on the DRC’s untapped tourism opportunities.

Travel and Tour World reports that the Embraer E190 stands out as an ideal choice for Congo Airways, thanks to its renowned fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and capability to serve airports with shorter runways, a critical advantage in a country with varied infrastructure. 

Favoured by many regional operators for its compact size and adaptability, the aircraft will enable expanded routes to domestic destinations and neighbouring countries, making remote areas more accessible and fostering greater accessibility for travellers.

This operational restart forms part of a larger initiative to modernise the DRC’s aviation network and drive tourism expansion. Although Kinshasa serves as a robust international and domestic gateway, connections to other parts of the vast nation have remained constrained. The E190 will allow Congo Airways to increase flight frequencies to key cities inside the DRC and extend services to regional hubs in East and Central Africa.

Enhanced air links will significantly elevate tourism in the DRC, a nation blessed with extraordinary natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and cultural treasures. Beyond its mineral wealth, the country is home to iconic sites like Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with mountain gorillas, Lake Tanganyika, and Salonga National Park. Reliable and frequent flights will be essential in attracting adventure seekers, eco-tourists, and nature enthusiasts to these remarkable locations.

Integrating the Embraer E190 reflects a forward-thinking strategy focused on efficiency and environmental responsibility. The jet’s advanced design minimises fuel consumption and carbon footprints while excelling in the challenging airport environments typical of the DRC. This approach helps control costs, potentially leading to more affordable fares, and aligning with global trends toward greener air travel.

Passengers will also benefit from a superior onboard experience, featuring a spacious 2-2 seating configuration, generous legroom, and contemporary amenities that enhance comfort on journeys to scenic destinations or urban centres.

Congo Airways intends to link Kinshasa with vital regional cities, including Nairobi, Kigali, Bujumbura, and Addis Ababa. The E190’s range and performance make it perfect for these medium-haul routes, promoting seamless travel for business, leisure, and tourism across borders.

The airline’s comeback arrives amid efforts to rejuvenate the tourism industry following years of infrastructure constraints and global disruptions. The DRC holds vast potential for ecotourism, adventure travel, and cultural experiences, yet limited access has held it back. Improved aviation will simplify visits to gems like the Okapi Wildlife Reserve and other protected areas.

Stronger air services could encourage collaborations with global tour operators and amplify promotional campaigns to spotlight the DRC’s landscapes, communities, and wildlife to international audiences.

The addition of the Embraer E190 marks an optimistic chapter for Congo Airways and DRC tourism. Through better connectivity, regional expansion, and a commitment to sustainability, the airline is set to drive economic progress and invite more visitors to experience the country’s awe-inspiring beauty and heritage.

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Nigeria’s aviation sector has recently faced a persistent spate of crises and operational difficulties, in stark contrast to positive developments such as the DRC’s airline relaunch. In 2025 alone, the industry grappled with widespread flight delays (affecting nearly half of domestic operations), cancellations, unruly passenger incidents, ground-handling mishaps (such as vehicle collisions damaging aircraft), and regulatory sanctions. 

High operational costs, fuelled by expensive aviation fuel, foreign exchange shortages, and aircraft supply chain delays, have strained carriers, leading to reduced capacity and higher fares. Infrastructure gaps, including outdated airports and a lack of a major hub, exacerbate inefficiencies. 

Historically, over 100 to 160 airlines have collapsed since deregulation in the 1980s-1990s due to poor management, economic pressures, and governance issues. While reforms under the current administration have brought some progress, such as dry-leasing facilitation and blocked funds resolution, the sector remains fragile, with incidents like tyre bursts and runway skids highlighting ongoing safety and maintenance concerns.

Improved air connectivity, as exemplified by Congo Airways’ revival, could profoundly benefit Africa’s tourism by making remote natural attractions more accessible, boosting ecotourism, wildlife safaris, and cross-border travel, key drivers for economies reliant on biodiversity hotspots like the Congo Basin. Enhanced regional routes foster intra-African tourism through initiatives such as AfCFTA, increasing visitor numbers, creating jobs in hospitality, and generating revenue for parks and reserves.

In Nigeria, the ongoing aviation challenges directly hinder tourism growth. Frequent delays, high fares, and unreliable services deter both domestic and international visitors, limiting access to cultural sites, festivals, and natural attractions. Poor connectivity reduces tourist inflows, stifles hospitality investments, and contributes to capital flight to foreign carriers. 

Conversely, if Nigeria addresses these issues through fleet expansions, infrastructure upgrades, and cost reductions, better air links could unlock domestic tourism potential, support events such as carnivals, and position the country as a West African hub, driving economic diversification and employment in a sector with a trillion-naira potential.

Dive deeper into Africa’s aviation and tourism trends. Explore more inspiring stories, industry insights, and travel guides on our website today!

 

FAQs

1. When will Congo Airways resume full operations?  

The airline plans to restart in the first quarter of 2026, following the integration of Embraer E190 aircraft into its fleet.

2. What aircraft is Congo Airways introducing, and why?  

The Embraer E190 was selected for its fuel efficiency, lower emissions, ability to use shorter runways, and suitability for domestic and regional routes in the DRC.

3. How will this relaunch impact tourism in the DRC?  

It will improve connectivity to national parks like Virunga and Salonga, making ecotourism, wildlife viewing, and cultural sites more accessible to domestic and international visitors.

4. What regional destinations might Congo Airways serve?  

Planned connections include cities like Nairobi, Kigali, Bujumbura, and Addis Ababa, facilitating cross-border travel and regional tourism.

5. Are there challenges remaining for Congo Airways?

Yes, the challenges include upgrading airport infrastructure, enhancing safety, and recovering from past financial issues, but the relaunch signals substantial progress toward sustainability.