Djibouti Airlines
Djibouti Airlines, currently known as Air Djibouti, is the flag carrier of Djibouti. It operates passenger and cargo services within Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. The airline is based at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport and has a fleet of aircraft that includes Boeing 737s, Bombardier Dash 8s, and an Airbus A320.
Brief history of Djibouti Airlines
Djibouti Airlines has had a turbulent history since its establishment in the 1960s. It has undergone several name changes, ownership changes, and rebranding efforts. The airline has faced financial difficulties and has had to shut down operations on multiple occasions. Despite these challenges, Djibouti Airlines has managed to survive and has emerged as a key player in the aviation industry in East Africa.
Founding of Djibouti Airline’s predecessor
Djibouti Airlines can trace its roots back to 1963 when the French colonial administration established Air Djibouti as a subsidiary of Air France. The airline operated domestic and regional services within the French territories of the Horn of Africa. After Djibouti gained independence in 1977, Air Djibouti became the national carrier of the country.
Djibouti Airways: A short-lived venture
In the late 1990s, the government of Djibouti decided to privatize Air Djibouti and sold a majority stake to a Kuwaiti investment firm. The new owners rebranded the airline as Djibouti Airways and launched ambitious expansion plans. However, the venture was short-lived, and the airline ceased operations in 2002 due to financial difficulties and mismanagement.
Djibouti Air: A new beginning
In 2004, the government of Djibouti decided to revive the national carrier and established a new airline called Djibouti Air. The new airline operated regional services to neighboring countries and managed to attract a loyal customer base. However, it was not immune to financial challenges and had to suspend operations in 2008.
Government takeover of Djibouti Air
In 2010, the government of Djibouti decided to take over Djibouti Air and injected capital to revamp the airline’s operations. The airline was renamed Air Djibouti and relaunched operations in 2015 with a new logo, livery, and branding.
Formation of Air Djibouti
Under the new ownership, Air Djibouti signed agreements with several international airlines to expand its network. The airline also acquired new aircraft and modernized its operations. It launched new routes to Dubai, Istanbul, and Hargeisa.
Privatization and rebranding
In 2018, the government of Djibouti decided to privatize Air Djibouti and sold a 49% stake to a British investment firm. The new owners launched a rebranding effort and introduced new services such as a loyalty program and an online booking system. The airline also expanded its fleet with the addition of a Boeing 737-800.
Djibouti’s flag carrier: A new era
Air Djibouti has emerged as the flag carrier of Djibouti and plays a critical role in the country’s economy. It serves as a gateway to the Horn of Africa and provides crucial connectivity to other parts of the world. The airline has won several awards for its safety record and customer service.
Strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines
In 2019, Air Djibouti signed a strategic partnership agreement with Ethiopian Airlines to enhance connectivity between the two countries. The agreement allows Air Djibouti to access Ethiopian Airlines’ network and offer seamless connections to its passengers.
Present day operations of Djibouti Airlines
Air Djibouti currently operates scheduled passenger and cargo services to several destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. The airline has a fleet of four aircraft and plans to expand its network in the coming years.
Conclusion: Djibouti Airlines’ journey
Djibouti Airlines’ journey has been marked by ups and downs, but the airline has managed to overcome its challenges and emerge as a key player in the aviation industry in East Africa. The airline’s revival under the new ownership has been a success story, and its partnership with Ethiopian Airlines is a testament to its commitment to provide seamless connectivity to its passengers. Djibouti Airlines is poised for growth and is set to play an even bigger role in the development of Djibouti’s economy.
