Government’s plans to restore a national airline have gained momentum after Namibia Air secured scheduled and non-scheduled Air Service Licences, completing the first major regulatory milestone before launching commercial operations.
The Transportation Commission of Namibia approved the airline’s applications under the Air Services Act and formally handed the licences to Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi.
Transportation Commission Chairperson Joshua Kaumbi said the licences were granted after the Commission established that Namibia Air had complied with all legal requirements and that no objections had been received during the statutory notice period.
“Following a thorough review of the applications and in the absence of any objections as prescribed by law, the Commission was satisfied that Namibia Air had fulfilled all requirements for the granting of the licences,” Kaumbi said.
He said the approval marks an important step towards restoring Namibia’s national flag carrier, which is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, support tourism and trade, create employment and contribute to economic growth.
While the airline has secured the operating licences, it must still obtain an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) before it can begin commercial flights.
Interim Board Chairperson Jonas Sheelongo said securing the AOC is now the airline’s immediate priority.
“The immediate next step is to secure an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), which is essential before the airline can commence commercial operations,” he said.
Sheelongo said the interim board remains focused on establishing a safe, sustainable and commercially viable airline.
Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi said the issuing of the licences represents only the first phase of the airline’s regulatory journey.
“While the granting of the air service licences marks a vital first phase, it is imperative that all regulatory, safety, and operational standards continue to be rigorously met as the project advances,” Nekundi said.
The government has positioned Namibia Air as a strategic project aimed at restoring a national carrier after the liquidation of Air Namibia, with the airline expected to improve connectivity and support the country’s long-term economic development objectives once operational.
