Qatar Airways Expands African Network, Connecting Kinshasa to Global Markets

Qatar Airways has unveiled a significant expansion of its African network, launching a new route that connects Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo's capital, to major destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This strategic move strengthens air travel options across the continent and opens doors for increased trade, business partnerships, and cultural exchange.

The inaugural flight from Doha, Qatar, touched down at Kinshasa's N'djili International Airport on June 1st, 2024. This new route provides passengers with convenient access to the world through Qatar Airways' award-winning hub, Hamad International Airport, recognized as the "World's Best Airport" in 2024 by Skytrax.

"At Qatar Airways, we acknowledge the vast potential Africa holds, " stated Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer. "We are committed to fostering stronger connections across the continent, facilitating seamless travel for business and leisure purposes. We are thrilled to offer our passengers traveling to and from the DRC convenient travel options through our exceptional hub, Hamad International Airport. "

The new Kinshasa route complements Qatar Airways' existing network of over 170 weekly flights across Africa. This expansion further emphasizes the airline's dedication to enhancing air connectivity throughout the continent.

Since December 2020, Qatar Airways has significantly expanded its African presence, adding nine new destinations to its network:Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Harare, Kano, Luanda, Lusaka, and Port Harcourt. Additionally, services to Cairo and Alexandria have been resumed.

Optimizing travel options is a key focus for Qatar Airways. In the past year, the airline has strategically adjusted flight schedules in most African markets to ensure convenient connections to China. This enhanced connectivity strategy extends to the new Kinshasa route, offering seamless connections to major markets like Belgium, France, Portugal, and the Middle East.

Kinshasa, a bustling metropolis nestled along the Congo River, is not only the DRC's capital but also the third-largest city in Africa, following Cairo and Lagos. The city serves as the country's economic hub, attracting investors and tourists alike. Kinshasa's rich cultural tapestry, vibrant music scene, and breathtaking natural beauty hold an allure for both urban explorers and nature enthusiasts.