News & Press releases

RwandAir Boeing 737-800

Two Boeing 737-800s delivered and newly serviced aircraft return to operations, with additional aircraft expected by end 2025.

(Kigali, Rwanda) – RwandAir has this month received two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, one of which is already in operation. Additionally, newly serviced aircraft are returning to operations, and a third aircraft is expected in Q4 of this year.

These additional aircraft will significantly enhance service reliability and operational efficiency, helping reduce delays and cancellations across the network.

In recent months, RwandAir experienced several unexpected technical disruptions across parts of its fleet, temporarily reducing the number of aircraft available for operations. This led to service adjustments that affected customers’ travel plans, but the affected aircraft have now successfully returned to service.

RwandAir CEO Yvonne Makolo said:


“RwandAir is pleased to have resolved the challenges to our schedules over the last weeks, and to welcome our aircraft back into operation. We would like to sincerely apologise to all of our customers whose travel plans were disrupted during this period, and thank them for their patience while we worked on service disruptions.


Together with the arrival of new aircraft, the strengthened fleet will enable RwandAir to improve reliability, strengthen our schedules, and deliver an even better travel experience to all our passengers.”

The Boeing 737-800s are configured with 12 Business Class seats and 162 Economy Class seats, and will primarily operate on short and medium-haul routes.

Later this year in Q4, RwandAir anticipates the delivery of a wide-body Airbus A330-200, further strengthening long-haul operations between Africa and global destinations.

These fleet additions reinforce RwandAir’s commitment to modernising operations, expanding route networks, and strengthening connectivity across Africa and beyond.

About RwandAir

RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, operates a fleet of 13 aircraft and serves over 144 destinations through direct flights and codeshare partnerships. It is known for its premium service and for connecting Africa to the world from its hub in Kigali.

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RwandAir Zanzibar and Mombasa launch

Just in time for winter holiday travel

RwandAir expands its East African footprint with new connections to top coastal destinations

Kigali, 30 September 2025 – RwandAir is delighted to announce the launch of its new Zanzibar and Mombasa route, beginning 1 December 2025, just ahead of the winter holidays. The new service will connect Kigali with two of East Africa’s most sought-after coastal getaways, offering travelers access to stunning beaches, vibrant marine life and world-class leisure experiences.

Flights will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays using a Boeing B737. This route marks RwandAir’s return to Mombasa, where it last operated in 2019, while also adding Zanzibar as a brand-new destination.

“Returning to Mombasa and introducing Zanzibar is another step forward in our ambitious growth journey,” said Yvonne Makolo, CEO of RwandAir. “By expanding our East African network, we are strengthening Kigali’s position as a key hub while opening doors for trade, tourism and stronger regional ties.”

As the recent winner of Skytrax’s Best African Regional Airline award, the launch highlights RwandAir’s continued commitment to regional connectivity and customer experience.

Flight WB 444 will depart Kigali at 9:50 AM, arriving in Zanzibar at 12:50 PM before continuing onward to Mombasa. Return services will operate from Mombasa via Zanzibar back to Kigali with convenient evening arrivals.

With its convenient timings, the new route provides seamless travel options for both weekend escapes and extended vacations, ensuring travelers can enjoy the very best of East Africa’s coastal charm.

About RwandAir

RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, operates a fleet of 13 aircraft and serves over 144 destinations through direct flights and codeshare partnerships. It is known for its premium service and connecting Africa to the world from its hub in Kigali.

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RwandAir Flight Advisory

Due to the evolving situation in the Middle East, flights to and from
Doha and Dubai have been suspended until further notice.

The safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available.

Passengers are advised to monitor the latest information via
www.rwandair.com
or through our official social media channels.

About RwandAir

RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, operates a fleet of 13 aircraft and serves over 144 destinations through direct flights and codeshare partnerships. It is known for its premium service and for connecting Africa to the world from its hub in Kigali.


RISE Graduate Development Programme

RwandAir is investing in the future of African aviation through
RISE – RwandAir Inspiring Success & Excellence,
a 24-month Graduate Development Programme designed to nurture Rwanda’s next generation of aviation leaders.

As Africa’s aviation market continues to grow rapidly, RwandAir—Rwanda’s national airline and the
2025 Best Regional Airline in Africa, is committed to developing skilled, values-driven professionals who will shape the industry’s future.

Through structured rotations across key functions including Engineering, Commercial, Flight Operations, Finance, IT, and Human Resources, participants gain broad industry exposure, hands-on experience, and mentorship from senior leaders.

RISE is more than a graduate programme — it is a clear pathway from learner to leader.

For those ready to grow, lead, and help connect Rwanda and Africa to the world, RISE with RwandAir is where aviation careers take flight.

About RwandAir

RwandAir, the national carrier of Rwanda, operates a fleet of 13 aircraft and serves over 144 destinations through direct flights and codeshare partnerships. It is known for its premium service and for connecting Africa to the world from its hub in Kigali.

Follow us:
Instagram,
X,
LinkedIn,
Facebook

Kigali will host the UCI Road World Championships from September 20 to 28, 2025. During this time, there will be road closures throughout the city, which will cause traffic delays for those departing from Kigali International Airport.

Please allow for extra travel time to ensure you make your flight on time:

  1. Check which roads will be open or closed before your trip, Rwanda National Police will be providing alternative routes through @Rwandapolice on X.
  2. Leave early and allow plenty of extra travel time.
  3. Adhere to check-in deadlines: 

●      Domestic Flights: Check in 3 hours before departure and check-in closes 1 hour before departure. 

●      International Flights: Check in 4 hours before departure and check-in closes 1 hour and 30 minutes before departure.

We look forward to welcoming you on board!

Flash Sale: 25% Off to Entebbe & Dar Es Salaam

Pack your bags, adventure seekers! For the next 24 hours, we are offering an exclusive 25% discount on flights from Kigali to Entebbe, Uganda, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a spontaneous escape, now is the perfect time to explore these two vibrant destinations in East Africa.

Don’t forget to use the promo code EAPR325 to claim your discount.

Terms & Conditions of the discount

  • Discount level: Discount is off any available fare (Base fare only) in the system.
  • The discount applies for KGL-EBB & DAR (on WB operated flights only).
  • Sales period: Immediately – 14th March 2025
  • Travel period: Immediately – 31st March 2025
  • Advance purchase restriction: N/A
  • Mode of sales: WB Offices & KGL Travel Agents (POS: RWANDA only)
  • No-show = USD150 (Waived if booking segment(s) is/are cancelled at least 24hrs to flight).
  • Date change/Reissue fee = USD100, Fare difference shall apply.
  • Refund before & after departure: Non-refundable.
  • Discount code: Apply EAPR325 for up to 25% discount.
  • Discount code applies To Base Fare Only. Taxes/Fess/Charges (TFCs) are not discountable.
  • This promotion is not available for groups.
  • This promo is NOT commissionable.

This exclusive discount is only valid for 24 hours, so don’t wait too long to book your trip. Whether you’re dreaming of Uganda’s lush landscapes or Dar Es Salaam’s urban charm, now’s the time to make it happen.

Due to planned major roadworks on the M25 motorway, your journey to Heathrow Airport maybe subject to major disruption and delays on the following dates:

  • 21 February 2025
  • 7–11 March 2025
  • 21–24 March 2025

We strongly advise all passengers to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time to reach the airport. While a diversion route will be in place, traffic delays are expected, and road conditions may be busier than usual.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, we recommend the following:

  • Check your travel route in advance: Use real-time traffic updates and navigation apps to stay informed about the best routes to Heathrow.
  • Allow extra travel time: Consider leaving earlier than usual to account for potential delays, and arrive to the airport at least 4hrs before. Keep in mind that check-in at the airport close 1h30 min before departure.
  • Explore alternative transport options: If possible, consider using public transport, such as trains or the London Underground, to avoid road congestion.

Should you have any questions or require assistance, please contact our customer service team at +44 (0)1293 874 922 / rwandair@flightdirectors.com

Due to the closure of DR Congo airspace to Rwandan-registered aircraft, RwandAir has rerouted affected flight paths. We are working to provide the safest and most efficient alternatives while minimising inconvenience to our passengers.

RwandAir apologises for any inconvenience and advises customers to monitor our website and X feed for updates. You can also contact your local RwandAir office with any questions.

Following the travel advisory from the Government of Zanzibar, all foreigners visiting Zanzibar must have valid Inbound Travel Insurance for the duration of their stay (up to 92 days). This insurance can only be obtained from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation through a provided QR Code before embarking on your journey to Zanzibar.

Failure to comply may result in entry denial at immigration checkpoints. For more information, please contact the authorities or visit official government channels at https://visitzanzibar.go.tz inbound@zic.co.tz or Toll-Free Number 0800008005.

We regret to inform you that RwandAir will suspend all flights to and from Cape Town, effective 27 October 2024.

Passengers holding RwandAir tickets after this date are advised to contact us or their preferred travel agents for rebooking options.  

For media inquiries, contact us at communications@rwandair.com

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause

Due to the ongoing strike by airport staff at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, our flights WB402/WB403 KGL/NBO/KGL on 11 September 2024 are cancelled. All affected passengers will be rebooked on the next available flights.

For more information, contact us (https://www.rwandair.com/connect-with-us/contact-us/)

We apologize for any inconvenience caused.