RwandAir has adjusted its flight routes after the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) decided to close its airspace to Rwandan planes. The new restriction means RwandAir planes are no longer allowed to fly over Congo’s airspace, starting from the night of February 11, 2025.
This change will impact some flights. For example, flights from Rwanda to London used to take about 7 hours, but now, due to the new detour, passengers can expect the journey to take around 9 hours.
RwandAir has apologized to passengers for the inconvenience caused. In a statement, the airline said, “We are working hard to minimize the impact of this change and ensure your safety. Please stay updated on the latest information through our website and social media platforms.”
The airline also encouraged travelers to reach out to RwandAir offices for assistance if needed.
This move by DR Congo follows a previous decision in 2024 when Congo halted RwandAir flights to Goma, Lubumbashi, and Kinshasa. The Congolese government claims Rwanda is supporting rebels in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, which Rwanda denies.
In response, the Rwandan government has expressed concern over Congo’s ties with the FDLR, a militia group involved in the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Despite the challenges, RwandAir is committed to ensuring safe and efficient travel for its passengers. The airline continues to monitor the situation and adjust as needed to minimize disruptions.
