Northern Malawi Set for Air Transport Boost

Deputy Minister of Transport and Public Works, Steven Malondera, has announced that commercial domestic flights to northern Malawi will resume within 21 days, enhancing air transport connectivity in the region.

Malondera made the announcement on Saturday during a tour of Karonga International Airport, where he assessed the progress of rehabilitation efforts by the government and its partners ahead of the flight resumption.

“We are pleased to inform Malawians that domestic flights will resume within the next 21 days. My visit today is to ensure these plans are on track and will soon become a reality,” said Malondera, who also serves as the Director of Youth for the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

He emphasized that the return of domestic flights will significantly boost the northern region’s economic growth by creating employment opportunities, stimulating local businesses, and promoting tourism.

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Public Infrastructure, Enock Phale, described the resumption of flights as a major milestone for the country’s air transport sector.

“The reintroduction of domestic flights provides a vital alternative to existing transport options. Expanding our air transport network will also ease pressure on our roads,” Phale said.

Phillip Schoeman, Mining Manager at Lotus Africa Ltd., whose company is assisting with the rehabilitation of Karonga Airport—including repairing potholes on the runway—welcomed the move.

He noted that the restored airlink will streamline the transportation of mining equipment and personnel, improving efficiency at the Kayelekera Mine.