LAM Mozambique Eyes Extended Partnership with Knighthood Global for Strategic Renewal
LAM Mozambique Airlines is considering extending its collaboration with Knighthood Global Limited, an Abu Dhabi-based consultancy helmed by former Etihad CEO James Hogan. This follows the completion of an intensive three-month mandate, initiated in May 2025, which focused on stabilizing LAM’s operations and charting a fresh strategic direction for the carrier. Knighthood Global concluded its initial assignment by delivering a comprehensive end-of-mission report to LAM’s management in August 2025, outlining achievements and ongoing challenges.
During this period, Knighthood Global played a central role in strengthening LAM’s operational foundation. One of the consultancy’s key contributions was overseeing a major fleet optimization initiative. This included launching a competitive tender for the dry-lease of up to five Boeing 737-700 aircraft, aiming to modernize LAM’s fleet and enhance route efficiency. Simultaneously, Knighthood managed a separate process for short-term wet-leases, both of which remain active as LAM seeks to secure additional capacity for its domestic and regional network.
Despite these proactive measures, LAM remains heavily reliant on leased aircraft to maintain its flight schedule. Currently, the airline operates with a mix of leased assets, including a Boeing 737-500 from Via Air and two CRJ900s sourced from CemAir. This ongoing dependence on external lessors highlights the persistent challenges faced by many African carriers in achieving fleet independence and long-term sustainability.
The possible extension of Knighthood Global’s contract signals LAM’s determination to build on recent progress and accelerate its transformation. For the African aviation sector, this move reflects a wider recognition of the need for strategic partnerships, international expertise, and agile business models to compete in a rapidly evolving market. By leveraging the experience of industry veterans and global consultants, African airlines can fast-track internal reforms and adopt best practices seen in leading global carriers.
The involvement of a high-profile consultancy like Knighthood Global also underscores the broader industry trend towards professionalized management and data-driven decision-making. With the aviation sector facing headwinds from fluctuating demand, regulatory changes, and rising operational costs, LAM’s approach is likely to resonate with other airlines across sub-Saharan Africa seeking to modernize and remain competitive.
In addition to fleet renewal, the strategic plan crafted under Knighthood’s guidance is expected to address other core areas, including operational efficiency, route network optimization, and new revenue opportunities. As the tender processes for both dry- and wet-leased aircraft continue, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how LAM capitalizes on these initiatives to reduce its dependency on short-term arrangements and move towards a more stable, self-sustaining future.
For the continent’s travel and aviation professionals, LAM’s journey offers valuable insights into the realities and complexities of airline turnaround strategies. It also highlights the importance of adaptability in a sector where access to modern fleet, financial flexibility, and experienced leadership can make the difference between stagnation and renewed growth.
As LAM Mozambique deliberates the next phase of its partnership with Knighthood Global, the outcome will be closely watched by African industry stakeholders. The success or challenges of this collaboration could set a precedent for other airlines exploring similar routes to operational recovery and long-term sustainability. Ultimately, the drive for transformation at LAM reflects a broader commitment to elevating standards, competitiveness, and connectivity in African aviation—an ambition that will shape the future of travel across the region.
