SWAPO plans to revive bankrupt Air Namibia has received opposition criticism regarding economic feasibility. Following government endorsement, concerns have been raised about resource allocation amidst pressing socioeconomic issues. Air Namibia was liquidated in 2021 after significant losses, and while attempts to establish alternatives have emerged, the viability of a national airline remains in question.
The South West African People’s Organisation (SWAPO) in Namibia is facing significant criticism concerning its plans to revive the bankrupt Air Namibia. This initiative follows the recent release of SWAPO’s implementation plan for its 2024 election manifesto, which emphasizes reviving the national airline through calculated strategies to prevent previous failures.
As reported by One Africa television, the Namibian cabinet has approved the integration of SWAPO’s manifesto into government policies, with plans to commence execution on April 1, 2025. However, opposition politician Maximalliant Katjimune of the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has expressed strong disapproval, stating, “It is deeply concerning that this plan seems fixated on reviving a national airline, which we clearly cannot afford and do not need at this time.” He advocates for prioritizing government resources towards more urgent socioeconomic challenges.
Air Namibia was voluntarily liquidated by the Namibian government in March 2021, after enduring a prolonged period of financial losses and inefficiencies, with the government having invested NAD9 billion (approximately USD495 million) for bailouts over the last decade. Despite a failed attempt by a South African logistics broker to purchase the airline’s bankruptcy estate in September 2022, SWAPO’s national congress mandated its revival in December 2022, emphasizing the importance of regional connectivity and tourism.
Former President Hage Geingob engaged with Ethiopian Airlines in 2023 for assistance in the revival efforts, and Emirates also indicated interest. While startup Fly Etosha aimed to replace the weakened national carrier, it ultimately did not succeed. As of January 2024, the Namibian government has indicated there are no immediate revival plans, although it has not excluded the possibility of establishing a smaller regional airline.
Currently, FlyNamibia, primarily owned by charter carrier Westair Aviation, stands as the sole scheduled passenger airline based in Namibia, operating with a fleet of E135/E145 aircraft leased from its parent company.
The proposed revival of Air Namibia by SWAPO has ignited considerable debate regarding its economic viability and appropriateness given the current socioeconomic landscape in Namibia. Despite governmental backing, prominent opposition voices argue for a reevaluation of resource allocation towards more urgent issues. As the Namibian government navigates this complex situation, the future of airline services remains uncertain, with FlyNamibia being the only active scheduled passenger carrier in the nation.
Original Source: www.ch-aviation.com
