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Mwant Jet Set to Revive Domestic Flights, Boosting DRC’s Air Connectivity After Two-Year Hiatus Mwant Jet Set to Revive Domestic Flights, Boosting DRC’s Air Connectivity After Two-Year Hiatus

After a challenging hiatus exceeding two years, the Congolese private airline Mwant Jet is preparing to soar back into the skies. The carrier successfully reclaimed its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in May 2025, a critical regulatory milestone that paves the way for the resumption of its commercial flights starting August 16, 2025. This revival marks a significant moment for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) aviation sector, which has been grappling with limited domestic air service options amid the suspension of key players.

Mwant Jet’s operational pause, initiated in early 2023, was the culmination of a turbulent period characterized by severe financial difficulties, intense legal disputes, and internal shareholder conflicts. These challenges not only stalled the airline’s activities but also underscored the fragile nature of private aviation ventures in the DRC’s complex economic and regulatory environment.

Historically, Mwant Jet has been a vital link within the DRC’s vast and often inaccessible terrain, operating a fleet primarily composed of Embraer ERJ145 regional jets. These aircraft are well-suited for the country’s domestic routes, connecting key urban centers where road infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The airline’s return is therefore poised to fill a critical gap in the market, especially as the national carrier, Congo Airways, faces its own operational challenges.

The reinstatement of Mwant Jet’s AOC followed a rigorous process overseen by the DRC’s civil aviation authority, requiring the airline to demonstrate compliance with stringent safety, operational, and financial standards. This included proving the availability of suitable aircraft, establishing a competent management team, and implementing robust safety management systems. Successfully meeting these criteria signals Mwant Jet’s readiness to re-enter the competitive domestic aviation landscape.

Industry observers note that Mwant Jet’s comeback could stimulate increased flight availability and offer more options for passengers and businesses relying on air travel within the DRC. The airline’s focus on regional connectivity aligns with the country’s pressing need for reliable air transport solutions, given the logistical challenges posed by its geography.

However, the road ahead is not without obstacles. Mwant Jet must navigate lingering financial burdens and maintain operational stability to sustain its renewed presence. Additionally, competition from emerging carriers such as Air Congo—a joint venture backed by Ethiopian Airlines and the DRC government—adds a layer of complexity to the market dynamics.

For the broader aviation ecosystem in the DRC, Mwant Jet’s return represents a hopeful sign of recovery and growth. It underscores the resilience of private airlines in overcoming adversity and adapting to evolving market conditions. As the airline prepares to welcome passengers once again, stakeholders across the travel and transport sectors will be watching closely to see how this revival influences connectivity, economic activity, and regional integration in Central Africa.