21 January 2010
Local regional airline SA Express is expanding into the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the launch of a new regional airline, Congo Express, which will provide a much-needed air service between Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Mbuji Mayi from February onwards.
Congo Express corporate offices are based in Lubumbashi and Kinshasa, and the airline will operate seven days a week between Lubumbashi and Kinshasa, and four times a week between Lubumbashi and Mbuji Mayi.
This new airline is a joint venture and collaboration between established Congolese business, BizAfrika Congo and SA Express, one of the fastest growing regional carriers on the continent.
“The new airline, Congo Express, will roll out its operations in three phases, the first being the launch of the Lubumbashi-Kinshasa and Kinshasa-Mbuji Mayi routes,” said Congo Express MD Didier Kindambu in a statement this week.
“Next, we plan on growing the domestic routes to serve other airports within the DRC, followed by an extension of services beyond the borders of the DRC.”
Congo Express
SA Express and its partner, BizAfrika Congo, have been engaged in collaborative discussions regarding Congo Express over the last four years, with SA Express holding 49% of Congo Express’ shares in the joint venture.
The Congo Express brand and corporate identity will be similar to those of SA Express, yet uniquely distinctive. The logo reflects the colours of the national flag of the DRC and will be reflected in the livery of the aircraft servicing the route, and also in the chic uniform to be worn by the employees.
Congo Express’ technical maintenance facilities will be undertaken by SA Express.
SA Express launched its operation between Johannesburg and Lubumbashi in 2004, and will continue to operate this route. The Johannesburg-Lubumbashi route has since flourished, with the airline currently frequenting the DRC six days a week.
SAinfo reporter
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