Air Botswana cuts regional routes after heavy losses

Botswana’s national carrier, Air Botswana, has suspended three recently launched regional routes after reporting losses of approximately P44.5 million. The move highlights ongoing financial challenges at the airline and is likely to affect travel planning across Southern Africa.

Which routes have been suspended?

The following routes have been discontinued:

• Gaborone – Durban
• Gaborone – Windhoek
• Maun – Cape Town

These services were introduced in late 2024 as part of an effort to expand regional connectivity. However, low passenger demand and high operating costs made them financially unsustainable.

What this means for travellers

The suspension of these routes reduces direct flight options between Botswana and key regional destinations. Travellers should expect:

• Fewer direct connections
• Increased reliance on transit hubs such as Johannesburg
• Potentially higher fares due to reduced competition
• Longer overall travel times

This is particularly relevant for those planning multi-country itineraries across Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.

Impact on popular travel routes

The affected routes played an important role in regional tourism:

• The Maun <> Cape Town route offered a convenient link between the Okavango Delta and one of Africa’s most popular cities
• The Gaborone <> Windhoek route supported overland and fly-drive travel between Botswana and Namibia
• The Gaborone <> Durban route connected two smaller but growing leisure and business markets

Their suspension makes itinerary planning more complex, especially for fly-in safari travellers.

Alternative travel options

Despite the cuts, Botswana remains accessible through several alternatives:

• Flights via Johannesburg with onward connections to Maun or Kasane
• Regional airlines offering connections across Southern Africa
• Remaining Air Botswana domestic and limited regional services

Travellers may need to combine multiple flights or consider alternative entry points into the region.

What you should do if you are travelling

If you are planning a trip to Botswana or nearby countries:

• Check your flight bookings carefully for any schedule changes
• Allow extra time for connections, especially when transiting through major hubs
• Book flexible tickets where possible
• Consider working with a travel specialist for more complex itineraries

Outlook

Air Botswana’s decision to suspend these routes is part of a broader effort to reduce losses and stabilise operations. Given the airline’s ongoing financial pressures and limited fleet, further route adjustments remain possible.

Bottom line

While Botswana continues to offer world-class safari experiences, getting there may now require more planning and flexibility. Travellers should be prepared for indirect routings and evolving flight schedules when planning trips in the region.

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