Rwandair CEO Yvonne Makolo on lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis

Rwanda's national carrier, RwandAir, recently resumed commercial flights, coinciding with the reopening of the country's airspaces. However, the financial implications of reopening the airline amidst the ongoing COVID-19 crisis have been significant. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, CEO Yvonne Makolo discussed the challenges faced by the airline and the measures taken to ensure the safety of passengers. Makolo highlighted the substantial investments made in safety protocols by RwandAir, the airport company, and the Ministry of Health to reassure passengers of the safety of air travel. Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, RwandAir remains committed to its expansion plans, including the launch of flights to New York. While these plans have been delayed, Makolo emphasized the airline's focus on rebuilding its network before pursuing further expansion. The pandemic has also underscored the importance of recruiting and training local aviation professionals, such as pilots and engineers, to enhance the airline's operational resilience. The increased government funding allocated to RwandAir is expected to facilitate the airline's recovery efforts and contribute to the revitalization of Rwanda's economy. Makolo expressed optimism about the airline's ability to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic, citing the resilience and adaptability demonstrated throughout the crisis. Despite the challenges faced, Makolo sees a silver lining in the form of reevaluating and improving business practices, emphasizing cost control and efficiency. The experience of navigating the pandemic has strengthened both Makolo and RwandAir, setting the stage for a more resilient future in the face of uncertainty. As the airline prepares to welcome passengers once again, Makolo remains hopeful and enthusiastic about the journey ahead, reflecting a renewed sense of purpose and determination.