Qatar Airways Acquires 25% Stake in Southern Africa’s Premier Regional Carrier, Airlink

In a landmark deal for African aviation, Qatar Airways has acquired a 25% stake in Airlink, Southern Africa’s leading regional carrier. This strategic investment, announced on August 20, 2024, signifies Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity and economic growth across the African continent.

Airlink, renowned for its extensive network that spans over 45 destinations in 15 African countries, stands as a testament to resilient and agile business practices. The partnership is set to unlock new growth avenues by increasing capacity, expanding marketing reach, and aligning loyalty programs between the two airlines.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, expressed his enthusiasm for the investment, stating, “Our investment in Airlink further demonstrates how integral we see Africa being to our business’ future. This partnership not only demonstrates our confidence in Airlink, as a company that is resilient, agile, financially robust and governed on sound principles, but also in Africa as a whole, showing huge potential that I am delighted we are able to help start realising.”

Airlink’s CEO, Rodger Foster, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the investment as a powerful endorsement of Airlink’s market faith and operational strength. The deal is expected to bolster Airlink’s existing partnerships and enhance its “Skybucks” frequent flyer rewards program.

With Qatar Airways already operating flights to 29 destinations in Africa, this new alliance is poised to further cement the airline’s role as a pivotal player in the continent’s economic success. The synergy between Qatar Airways’ global reach and Airlink’s regional dominance promises to foster a more connected and prosperous Africa.

This move is a continuation of Qatar Airways’ ambition to develop its operations across Africa, a region ripe with business potential and a growing aviation market. As the world watches, the partnership between Qatar Airways and Airlink is set to soar, charting new territories in the aviation landscape123.