RwandAir considers joining the Oneworld alliance
Qatar Airways is in talks with Kigali to acquire a stake in RwandAir. In the long run, this strategic move should raise the standards of the Rwandan flag carrier, which could be considered for membership of one of the most prestigious alliances, Oneworld, of which Qatar Airways is a member.
RwandAir could become a member of the Oneworld alliance in the coming months or years. "As we continue to expand our partnership with Qatar Airways, we are always looking for ways to improve our customer offering and global reach. We are therefore exploring the possibility of joining the Oneworld alliance," RwandAir's CEO revealed, while speaking at the Aviation Africa forum, held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 12-13 September 2022.
"This would be a great fit for Rwandair, and would help us build closer ties with like-minded airline partners abroad," added Yvonne Makolo.
In 2021, RwandAir and Qatar Airways strengthened their relationship, signing reciprocal frequent flyer, interlining and codeshare agreements. "We will do everything in our power to bring it up to standard, so that it can join as a full member or associate member," promised the CEO of Qatar Airways, and also chairman of Oneworld. "We welcome the opportunity to discuss with RwandAir as it formulates its partnership strategy. Africa is an important market in a world already largely served by a number of Oneworld member airlines," added Akbar Al Baker.
If successful, RwandAir would become the second African airline to join Oneworld, after Royal Air Maroc (RAM). The Moroccan state-owned flag carrier has been an official member of the alliance since April 1, 2020, after more than a year of waiting. Oneworld currently has 15 members, including American Airlines, British Airways, and of course Qatar Airways.
