Namibia could soon have its own national airline again. More than five years after the collapse of Air Namibia, the country's plans for a new state-owned carrier are gathering momentum, with Namibia Air (Pty) Ltd taking another important step towards launching operations.
While there are still no flights to book, the airline's latest licence application provides the clearest indication yet of the routes Namibia Air hopes to serve. If the plans move ahead as expected, the new carrier could improve both domestic travel within Namibia and regional connectivity for visitors exploring Southern Africa.
Namibia Air applies for operating licences
In mid-July 2026, Namibia Air submitted an application for operating licences through a Government Gazette notice. The application covers scheduled and charter services, with proposed operations ranging from domestic flights within Namibia to regional services across Africa and, eventually, international destinations.
Although regulatory approval is only one step in the process, it signals that preparations for the airline are continuing as the Namibian government works towards its goal of launching the carrier before the end of 2026.
What the proposed route network means for travellers
For anyone planning a self-drive holiday or fly-in safari, the proposed network is encouraging. According to the licence application, Namibia Air intends to operate scheduled flights from Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) to:
- Ondangwa
- Lüderitz
- Walvis Bay
- Johannesburg
- Cape Town
- Luanda
For international visitors, regional links to Johannesburg and Cape Town would provide additional options for combining Namibia with South Africa or connecting to long-haul flights.
The planned domestic routes could also make travelling around Namibia significantly easier. Flights to Ondangwa offer convenient access to northern Namibia, including Etosha National Park and the Kunene Region, while services to Walvis Bay and Lüderitz would improve access to the Atlantic coast, the Skeleton Coast region and southern Namibia.
For travellers who prefer not to spend long hours driving between destinations, additional domestic air services would be a welcome development.
A fleet designed for regional flying
Unlike its predecessor, Namibia Air appears to be taking a measured approach to fleet planning.
The airline intends to operate seven Embraer regional aircraft:
- Four Embraer ERJ 145 regional jets
- Three Embraer E170/E175 aircraft
These aircraft are well suited to Namibia's relatively small passenger volumes and regional route network, offering an efficient alternative to operating larger aircraft on thinner routes.
According to the feasibility study, the planned domestic and regional network represents a market of approximately 800,000 round-trip passengers annually.
A fresh start after Air Namibia
Government officials have repeatedly stressed that Namibia Air is not simply a revival of Air Namibia.
Air Namibia ceased operations in February 2021 after years of financial difficulties and substantial government support. The new airline is intended to operate on commercial principles, with an interim ten-member board overseeing its establishment. Officials have also indicated that partnerships with private investors and international airlines remain under consideration as the project develops.
Can you book Namibia Air flights yet?
Not yet.
While the licence application marks significant progress, several important milestones still need to be completed before the airline enters service.
The exact launch date, flight schedules, fares and final fleet acquisition strategy have yet to be announced. The government's feasibility study is still under review, and discussions with potential airline partners—including Ethiopian Airlines—are reportedly continuing.
For now, travellers should continue planning Namibia trips using the airlines already serving the country.
Namibia's air connectivity continues to improve
Even before Namibia Air begins flying, reaching Namibia is becoming easier.
Recent developments include Edelweiss Air launching direct Zurich–Windhoek services in June 2026, Discover Airlines expanding flights between Munich and Windhoek, and Condor announcing the return of Frankfurt–Windhoek services from June 2027.
If Namibia Air launches as planned later this year, it will add another option for visitors and strengthen domestic connectivity, making it easier to explore one of Southern Africa's most rewarding self-drive destinations.
Whether you're planning your first safari in Etosha National Park, exploring the dramatic landscapes around Lüderitz or combining Namibia with neighbouring countries, improved air links could make future itineraries considerably more flexible.
What travellers should know
- Namibia Air has applied for operating licences covering scheduled and charter services.
- Proposed destinations include Ondangwa, Lüderitz, Walvis Bay, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Luanda.
- The airline plans to operate a fleet of seven Embraer regional aircraft.
- Flights are not yet available for booking.
- The Namibian government is targeting a launch before the end of 2026, although no firm start date has been announced.
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