New bilateral agreements aim to enhance international connectivity and align aviation standards.
The government of Rwanda has officially enacted a new set of bilateral air service agreements with 12 countries following the publication of relevant laws and presidential orders in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Rwanda on December 19, 2025.
The agreements, which include nations such as Eswatini, Guinea, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Zimbabwe, Georgia, France, Poland, Oman, Suriname, and Canada, are designed to broaden Rwanda’s international air connectivity while ensuring that the country’s aviation framework aligns with global standards.
Framework for International Air Services
At the heart of these agreements is the establishment of a legal framework that allows airlines designated by Rwanda and its partner countries, referred to as Contracting Parties, to operate international air services between and beyond their territories. The agreements grant each party the right to designate one or more airlines to operate agreed routes, replace designated carriers when necessary, and authorize airlines to commence operations without undue delay once regulatory requirements are met.
Emphasis on Safety and Security
A significant aspect of these agreements is the focus on aviation safety and security. Certificates of airworthiness, crew licenses, and competency documents issued by one party will be recognized by the other, provided they meet the minimum standards set under the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation. Each country retains the right to enforce its own safety oversight requirements for flights operating over its territory, while also committing to cooperation on aviation security to prevent unlawful acts against civil aviation.
Competition and Market Access
The agreements aim to foster a competitive yet balanced operating environment. They guarantee fair and equal opportunities for designated airlines from both sides, allowing carriers to determine frequency, capacity, and aircraft type based on commercial considerations and market demand. Governments are restricted from imposing unilateral limits on capacity or frequency, except for technical, safety, or regulatory reasons applied in a non-discriminatory manner.
Commercial Freedoms and Revenue Repatriation
On the commercial front, the agreements provide broad facilitation measures. Airlines are allowed to establish offices in partner countries, sell tickets directly or through agents, and employ necessary managerial, technical, and commercial staff. They can sell passenger and cargo services in local or freely convertible currencies and are guaranteed the right to convert and repatriate revenues earned from their operations without restriction, subject to applicable exchange regulations.
Tax and Customs Exemptions
Significant fiscal incentives are embedded within these agreements. Designated airlines are exempt from customs duties, excise taxes, inspection fees, and similar charges on aircraft, fuel, spare parts, technical supplies, catering, and onboard stores used exclusively for international air services. Baggage and cargo in direct transit are also exempt from customs duties, and profits derived from international air transport operations are shielded from taxation in the other party’s territory.
Access to Airports and Aviation Infrastructure
The agreements commit Rwanda and its partner countries to provide access to airports, air navigation services, security facilities, and related infrastructure on terms no less favorable than those offered to any other airline. Charges for airport use and related services must be reasonable, cost-related, transparent, and non-discriminatory.
Setting Fares and Tariffs
Tariffs for international air transport will be set by designated airlines based on commercial considerations in the marketplace. Government intervention will be limited to preventing anti-competitive practices and protecting consumers from unreasonably high fares.
Cooperation, Oversight, and Dispute Resolution
The agreements allow designated airlines to enter into commercial cooperation arrangements, including code-sharing and joint ventures, provided necessary approvals are in place. Clear mechanisms for consultations and dispute resolution are outlined, with disagreements first addressed through consultations between aeronautical authorities.
In conclusion, these agreements represent a significant step forward for Rwanda’s aviation sector, enhancing connectivity and fostering a competitive environment while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
Key Points
- Rwanda signs air service agreements with 12 countries.
- Agreements enhance international air connectivity.
- Focus on safety, security, and competitive market access.
- Fiscal incentives for designated airlines included.
- Provisions for cooperation and dispute resolution established.
