The national carrier currently has a fleet made up of an Embraer jet and three ATR servicing routes from Gaborone to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Kasane, Maun and Francistown. Amongst the new additions is an 88-seater aircraft named Kalahari, which now holds the distinction of being the largest in the Air Botswana fleet. The Kalahari is expected to play a key role in the airline's expansion plans, with new routes becoming operational in phases between September 1, 2024 and November 1, 2024. AB recently unveiled new flight routes, extending its services to Windhoek in Namibia and Durban and Mpumalanga in South Africa.
This expansion is seen as a strategic step forward, aligning with the airline's broader goals of growth and sustainability. The introduction of these new and reinstated routes, along with increased flight frequencies, is expected to significantly enhance AB's presence in the region. This move not only solidifies the national airline's position but also offers more flight options to travellers within Botswana and beyond, catering to a growing demand for convenient and reliable air travel. As the airline continues to expand its reach, the new routes are anticipated to strengthen connections across Southern Africa, benefiting both the local and international travel community. Speaking at the AB aircraft launch on Friday, President Mokgweetsi Masisi emphasised the pivotal role of the aviation industry in advancing the government's Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy. The strategy, government says, is integral to the country's broader goals of economic transformation, diversification and sustainable development. "A thriving aviation industry will not only generate substantial social and economic improvements in the lives of our people but will also drive the overall development of our country," he said. The President highlighted how the aviation sector is a catalyst for growth in various other industries, particularly tourism, which is a cornerstone of Botswana's economic diversification efforts. The MICE strategy, which seeks to attract international conferences and events to Botswana, is expected to benefit significantly from a robust and efficient aviation network.
For her part, AB CEO, Lulu Rasebotsa, said this strategic fleet expansion will enable AB to better serve its growing customer base and meet the increasing demand for air travel within the region. “The addition of the Kalahari and the other new aircraft will help the airline maintain its reputation for punctuality and efficiency, ensuring that passengers enjoy a smooth and timely travel experience,” she said.
