DAR ES SALAAM: JULIUS Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) has marked a significant milestone in Tanzania’s aviation sector following the official launch of Royal Air’s direct flights connecting Tanzania and Comoros.
The new service is expected to enhance passenger and cargo transportation while strengthening trade and economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries, which have long maintained close social and commercial ties.
Speaking during the launch ceremony, JNIA Director Bertha Bankwa described the introduction of Royal Air’s services as a major achievement for Tanzania’s aviation industry, noting that it increases the number of airlines operating between Tanzania and Comoros.
Bankwa said Royal Air will operate four flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. She explained that Friday flights will follow a special arrangement, arriving with passengers and returning to Comoros carrying cargo.
She added that the airline’s entry into the market will promote healthy competition within the aviation sector and contribute to increased airport revenues through higher passenger and cargo volumes.
ALSO READ: SA’s Airlink launches direct flights to upgraded Abeid Karume Airport
The JNIA director noted that the route is already served by other airlines, including Air Tanzania and Precision Air, reflecting growing demand for travel between Tanzania and Comoros.
According to Bankwa, Comoros remains one of Tanzania’s important trading partners, with many traders from the island nation relying on Dar es Salaam’s Kariakoo market to purchase a wide range of goods.
She said the availability of reliable flights will facilitate the transportation of goods and further boost trade between the two countries. Many Comorian traders, she noted, regularly depart Tanzania carrying substantial volumes of merchandise for resale in their home market.
Bankwa also said the expanded air connectivity creates new opportunities for Tanzanians to visit Comoros for business, investment, and tourism purposes. She encouraged Tanzanians to take advantage of the opportunities available in the neighboring country.
She further expressed hope that Royal Air would eventually increase its operations from four weekly flights to daily services as demand for travel and trade continues to grow.
Meanwhile, Comoros Ambassador to Tanzania Ahamada Elbadaoui Mohamed Fakih said the launch of the flights reflects strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and Comoros and is expected to contribute to economic growth in both countries.
The introduction of Royal Air services has been described as an important step toward improving regional connectivity, facilitating trade, expanding investment opportunities, and deepening economic relations between Tanzania and Comoros.