Eswatini Air Goes Fully Cashless at All Counters, Embracing Digital Payments for Seamless Service

Eswatini Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has announced a pivotal shift in its payment policy that will impact all passengers and partners across its network. Effective from 20 November 2025, the airline will no longer accept hard cash for any transactions at its reservation offices or airport ticket counters. This strategic move is set to modernise the airline’s operations, aligning with global aviation trends and the growing digital transformation within Africa’s travel sector.

The decision to transition to a cashless payment system is part of Eswatini Air’s broader commitment to enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. By eliminating cash handling at all points of sale, the airline aims to reduce the risks associated with physical money, such as theft and fraud, while also streamlining the check-in and booking processes for both staff and travellers.

Passengers booking flights or purchasing ancillary services are now encouraged to use a wide array of secure digital payment options. These include electronic funds transfers (EFTs), debit and credit cards, and popular mobile money platforms that are widely used across the region. This approach not only supports faster and more reliable transactions but also reflects the evolving preferences of today’s travellers, who increasingly expect seamless, contactless experiences from booking to boarding.

Eswatini Air’s move is in line with a broader industry trend, as airlines worldwide accelerate the adoption of digital solutions to improve service delivery and operational resilience. The shift to cashless operations is particularly significant in the African context, where mobile money and digital banking have seen rapid uptake, offering new opportunities for airlines to connect with customers and reduce administrative burdens.

For Eswatini Air, the benefits of going cashless extend beyond convenience. The airline anticipates that digital payments will help speed up passenger processing at airports, reduce queuing times, and minimise errors associated with manual cash handling. This is especially important at the airline’s main hub, King Mswati III International Airport in Manzini, where efficiency and security are paramount for both domestic and regional flights [[1]](https://airhex.com/airlines/eswatini-air/).

Industry observers note that this policy shift also supports Eswatini’s national vision for a modernised payment ecosystem. The country’s National Payment System Vision 2025 has prioritised the development of a robust digital infrastructure, aiming to foster financial inclusion and support economic growth through innovative payment solutions . Eswatini Air’s adoption of cashless transactions is a clear example of how the aviation sector can contribute to these national goals, setting a benchmark for other carriers in the region.

For travel professionals and partners, the transition means adapting to new processes when booking or managing group travel, corporate accounts, or ancillary services. The airline has assured customers that its digital payment platforms are secure, user-friendly, and accessible, with support available for those unfamiliar with online transactions. This proactive approach is designed to ensure a smooth transition for all stakeholders, from frequent flyers to first-time travellers.

The move to cashless operations is also expected to enhance transparency and accountability within the airline’s financial systems. By digitising all transactions, Eswatini Air can more effectively monitor sales, track revenue, and respond to customer queries, further strengthening its reputation for reliability and customer care.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Eswatini Air’s cashless policy positions it at the forefront of innovation in the region. The airline’s focus on digital transformation not only improves the passenger experience but also supports broader efforts to modernise Africa’s travel infrastructure and promote sustainable growth. For travel sector professionals, this development signals a shift towards more efficient, secure, and customer-centric business models—an evolution that is likely to shape the future of air travel across the continent.

With the new policy in effect from 20 November 2025, Eswatini Air invites all customers to embrace digital payments and enjoy a faster, safer, and more convenient journey—whether booking at the airport, online, or through authorised agents. This milestone marks another step forward in the airline’s mission to deliver world-class service and set new standards for the African aviation industry.