Air Connect Namibia hits one million international passengers

Air Connect Namibia has recorded significant growth in air connectivity and passenger numbers since its launch in 2024, reflecting a steady recovery and expansion of the country’s aviation sector.

Namibia Airports Company (NAC) Chief Executive Officer Bisey |Uirab says international passenger traffic surpassed one million in 2024, marking a major milestone from the low numbers recorded during the COVID-19 period.

Speaking to Future Media News, |Uirab said air connectivity has expanded by 70 percent over the past 18 months, with the number of destinations increasing from 10 in 2023 to 17 by mid-2026. Over the same period, passenger numbers rose by 11 percent, while seat capacity increased by 18 percent.

He attributed the growth to increased airline interest, particularly from Europe and the Southern African region, and strong collaboration among key aviation stakeholders.

|Uirab said while the progress made so far is encouraging, the company remains focused on further expanding routes and strengthening Namibia’s position as a regional aviation hub.

Air Connect Namibia is an initiative aimed at increasing direct international flights to and from Namibia, with a focus on Hosea Kutako International Airport. The project seeks to improve the country’s global connectivity, strengthen tourism and business travel, attract foreign investment, and support economic growth and job creation.

To drive this effort, the Namibia Airports Company is working in partnership with stakeholders, including the City of Windhoek, Namibia Tourism Board, Gondwana Collection, Walvis Bay Corridor Group, the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board.