ESWATINI AIR: A BEACON OF HOPE

Sir,

The establishment of Eswatini Air is a blessing and a momentous initiative for the Kingdom of Eswatini which brings hope for improved economic growth. The fact that today will be the airline’s second anniversary is a significant milestone.

It is a fact that national airlines play a crucial role in economic growth and serve as vital infrastructure for a country since they are primarily established to facilitate trade and tourism.  

National airlines contribute significantly to job creation, increased domestic spending, overall economic development as well as enhanced country’s accessibility, which in turn attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) and improved the overall transport ecosystem.

Impressive

It is impressive to note that in its two years of existence, Eswatini Air has created over 100 jobs directly with additional employment opportunities arising from the broader value chain comprising businesses that supply and work with the airline and other sectors of the national and global economies.

Additionally, after only a year-and-a-half of operations, Eswatini Air was recognised by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) with the 2023 Best-Improved in Intra-Africa Connectivity award. The AFRAA annual awards celebrate excellency in service delivery, innovation and competitiveness within the African aviation industry. That on its own speaks volumes about the future prospects of the airline.

As an avid reader of your widely read newspaper, I have taken keen interest in Eswatini Air affairs.

Recognise

For instance, I read positive comments from Senate in the Times of Eswatini of Tuesday, March 18, 2025, where some senators heaped praises on the airline.

It was heartening to read that the legislators recognise that the airline was doing its best under the circumstances and there were prospects of growth. They noted that the airfares were affordable and the hostesses provided exceptional service.

These comments surely bring relief and hope to the nation after there were reports that the airline’s maintenance costs were too high.

Benefits

I was particularly impressed by Royal Eswatini National Airways Corporation (RENAC) explanation that developing local maintenance expertise and infrastructure for a start-up airline like Eswatini Air was costly upfront, but provided long-term benefits.

It stated that engine maintenance, which accounts for over 40 per cent of the total maintenance costs, was particularly complex due to the limited number of maintenance facilities on the continent.

It further assured though that it was working to develop in-house capabilities and negotiating favourable terms with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with long-term benefits expected in the coming years. It was also explained that Eswatini Air had a clear plan for financial self-sustainability and contribution to the economy through enhanced connectivity, facilitation of commerce and tourism as well as creation of employment opportunities.

As a follower of the airline’s social media pages, I saw that people were impressed by the airfare.

One follower even stated that there was nothing to complain about because the airline offered excellent service at low airfares. Some noted that they have never experienced flying at such cheaper fares.

It goes without saying that the airline has a potential to grow with the support of the nation and government. With additional routes, I am optimistic that the airline can prosper and be one of the main pillars of the country’s economic growth.

Destinations

Though Eswatini Air currently services destinations in South Africa (Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban) and Harare, Zimbabwe. It is encouraging to know that Lusaka, Zambia would soon be an additional route.
To management and staff, keep up the good work and Eswatini is definitely proud of such an airline.

The airline’s slogan ‘Everyone must fly!’ is definitely a beacon of hope.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: