The Democratic Republic of the Congo's aviation authority, led by Director General Jean Tshiumba Mpunga, has granted airlines operating in the country a 30-day moratorium to regularize their route schedules. This decision was made to allow airlines to comply with legal and regulatory requirements without disrupting their flights to concerned destinations. The move follows a letter dated November 6, 2026, addressed to the Director General of the Régie des voies aériennes (RVA).
The aviation authority's decision aims to ensure that airlines operating in the DR Congo have the necessary permits and certifications to operate commercial flights. The Certificate of Air Transport (CTA) is a critical document that outlines the terms and conditions of an airline's operations, including the routes they are authorized to fly. Airlines are required to obtain approval from the regulatory authority for any changes to their flight schedules or routes.
The 30-day moratorium will enable airlines to review and update their flight schedules to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. During this period, the RVA has been instructed to continue authorizing flights operated by the concerned airlines. After the moratorium expires, the aviation authority will transmit an updated list of authorized airlines and their routes to the RVA, providing a clear picture of the destinations covered by each airline's permits.
The regulatory framework governing aviation in the DR Congo is outlined in the Civil Aviation Act No. 10/014 of December 31, 2010, and its amendments. The law requires airlines to obtain a CTA and an operating license to conduct commercial flights. Article 113 of the Act stipulates that airlines must have a valid CTA and operating license to exercise public air transport activities.
The aviation authority's move is aimed at ensuring that airlines operating in the DR Congo comply with international and national regulatory requirements. The DR Congo's aviation sector has faced challenges in recent years, including safety concerns and regulatory issues. The government's efforts to reform the sector and improve safety standards are ongoing.
The 30-day moratorium is a one-time measure to allow airlines to regularize their route schedules and avoid disruptions to their flights. The aviation authority's decision is expected to have a positive impact on the country's aviation sector, promoting compliance with regulatory requirements and enhancing safety standards.
The DR Congo's aviation authority has urged airlines to take advantage of the 30-day moratorium to regularize their route schedules and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. The move is part of the government's efforts to improve the country's aviation sector and promote safe and efficient air transport services.
Key points
- The DR Congo's aviation authority has given airlines 30 days to regularize their route schedules to comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
- The move aims to ensure that airlines operating in the country have the necessary permits and certifications to operate commercial flights.
- The regulatory framework governing aviation in the DR Congo is outlined in the Civil Aviation Act No. 10/014 of December 31, 2010, and its amendments.
