Qatar Airways Group has acquired a 25% stake in Airlink, a leading independent regional airline operating across Southern Africa. This strategic investment is part of Qatar Airways’ broader initiative to strengthen its presence on the African continent.
The acquisition is expected to enhance the existing code-sharing agreement between the two airlines, significantly improving Airlink’s connectivity to over 45 destinations in 15 African countries. This move aligns with Qatar Airways’ commitment to supporting economic development across Africa.
Commenting on the acquisition, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, stated, “Our investment in Airlink underscores our belief in the vital role Africa will play in the future of our business. This partnership not only reflects our confidence in Airlink as a resilient, agile, and financially robust company but also highlights the immense potential we see in Africa, which we are eager to help realize.”
Airlink Chief Executive Rodger Foster expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “Qatar Airways’ equity investment is a significant endorsement of Airlink and reinforces our confidence in the markets we currently serve and plan to expand into. This transaction will drive growth by providing economies of scale, boosting our capacity, and extending our marketing reach. By strengthening Airlink and its operations, this investment will enhance all existing airline partnerships we’ve cultivated over the years.”
The partnership also aims to align both airlines’ loyalty programs, with Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Airlink Skybucks offering enhanced benefits to customers.
Qatar Airways currently operates flights to 29 destinations in Africa. The airline has seen robust growth in the region, with several new destinations added to its network since December 2020, including Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Harare, Kano, Luanda, Lusaka, and Port Harcourt. Additionally, services to Cairo and Alexandria have been resumed, further expanding Qatar Airways’ reach across Africa.
