WINDHOEK, Aug. 7– Namibia has taken a step closer to reviving its national flag carrier after the proposed state-owned airline, Namibia Air, secured licences to operate scheduled and non-scheduled air services.
The licences were issued by the Transportation Commission of Namibia following the completion of statutory review procedures, during which no public objections were received, according to a statement released on Friday.
Joshua Kaumbi, chairperson of the commission, said the approval was a significant step toward establishing a new national flag carrier, citing its potential to boost regional trade, support tourism and create jobs.
Receiving the licences on behalf of Namibia Air, Interim Board Chairperson Jonas Sheelongo said the milestone followed months of planning and collaboration.
Sheelongo said the airline’s next step is to secure an Air Operator Certificate, which is required before it can begin commercial operations.
According to Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi, while the granting of the licences marked an important first step, the airline would still be required to meet all regulatory, safety and operational requirements before commencing operations.
The move comes five years after former national carrier, Air Namibia, ceased operations in 2021 following years of financial difficulties and reliance on government bailouts.(Namibia Daily News / Xinhua)
