CEO Yvonne Makolo discusses Rwandair partnership with Qatar Airways

Rwanda's national carrier, RwandAir, recently entered into a loyalty partnership deal with Qatar Airways in a bid to enhance connectivity and offer increased travel options for passengers of both airlines. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, the Chief Executive of RwandAir, Yvonne Makolo, elaborated on the details of the partnership agreement and provided insights into the current state of the aviation sector. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on RwandAir, as with other airlines worldwide. The airline was forced to suspend operations for a significant period, only resuming in August 2020. Despite the challenges faced, Makolo expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the necessity of strategic partnerships to weather the storm. Discussing the new initiatives with Qatar Airways, Makolo highlighted the significance of the loyalty program, which allows passengers to use air miles interchangeably between the two airlines. Additionally, the expanded interline partnership enables travelers to seamlessly book combined flights on both carriers, enhancing convenience and flexibility. While the joint venture partnership with Qatar Airways, involving a potential 49% stake in RwandAir, is still in the works, Makolo underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to benefit passengers. The delay in finalizing the agreement was attributed to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on operations and negotiations. Addressing the issue of route suspensions and network disruptions, Makolo assured customers of the airline's commitment to restart services once deemed safe. The resumption of key routes, such as Mumbai and Tel Aviv, will be contingent on health considerations and consultation with relevant authorities. In light of the financial implications of the pandemic, RwandAir has been operating at approximately 50% of its pre-covid capacity. Despite the revenue challenges, the airline has adapted its business model to prioritize cargo operations, a sector that has shown resilience during the crisis. Looking ahead, Makolo expressed confidence in the long-term prospects of the African aviation industry, citing untapped market potential and the role of national carriers in driving economic growth. She emphasized the need for reduced operating costs and increased collaboration across borders to facilitate industry recovery. Amidst discussions on fleet expansion and profitability, Makolo remains hopeful for a brighter future for RwandAir and the aviation sector at large. The CEO's positive outlook on the industry's trajectory underscores the resilience and adaptability of African airlines in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic. As the aviation industry continues to evolve amidst a changing landscape, partnerships like the one between RwandAir and Qatar Airways signal a strategic approach to innovation and growth. With a focus on enhancing customer experience and expanding market reach, RwandAir remains poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and contribute to the revitalization of the African aviation market.