Air Tanzania Launches Direct Flights to Kinshasa

Air Tanzania has expanded its African network with the introduction of direct flights connecting Dar es Salaam (DAR, Tanzania) to Kinshasa (FIH, Democratic Republic of the Congo.)

Flight Schedule and Aircraft

The Dar es Salaam–Kinshasa route operates four times a week using Air Tanzania’s Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

• TC224: Departs Dar es Salaam at 10:10 AM, arriving in Kinshasa at 11:50 AM on Fridays and Sundays.
• TC224: Departs Dar es Salaam at 11:40 AM, arriving in Kinshasa at 1:20 PM on Mondays and Wednesdays.
• TC225: Departs Kinshasa at 12:50 PM, arriving in Dar es Salaam at 6:30 PM on Fridays and Sundays.
• TC225: Departs Kinshasa at 2:20 PM, arriving in Dar es Salaam at 10:00 PM on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Strategic Significance

This direct service aims to bolster trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties between Tanzania and the DRC. Previously, travellers between these cities often relied on connecting flights through other African or international hubs, leading to longer and more costly journeys. The new route significantly reduces travel time, enhancing convenience for business professionals, government officials, and tourists alike.

Kinshasa, as one of Africa’s largest cities, serves as a vital centre for commerce, governance, and culture in the DRC. By introducing this direct route, Air Tanzania aims to facilitate the smoother movement of people and goods, supporting economic growth and regional integration.

Economic and Tourism Impacts

Trade and Business Opportunities: The DRC is rich in minerals and natural resources, making it a crucial player in the African economy. Tanzania, with its strategic location and ports, serves as a gateway for trade. Improved air connectivity is anticipated to enhance business collaborations, investment opportunities, and the efficiency of cargo transportation between the two nations.

Tourism Growth: Tanzania is renowned for its wildlife and adventure tourism, with attractions such as Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. The DRC offers unique eco-tourism experiences, including gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park. The direct flight facilitates easier access for tourists, promoting cultural exchange and boosting the tourism sectors in both countries.