SolitAir expands Global South cargo network with new Africa routes
SolitAir, the UAE’s dedicated B2B cargo airline, has announced a major expansion of its operations into Africa with the launch of eight new routes. The move marks a significant step in the airline’s long-term growth strategy, strengthening connectivity between Dubai World Central (DWC) and key African trade hubs.
The new destinations include Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar (Tanzania), Eldoret and Nairobi (Kenya), Benghazi (Libya), Johannesburg (South Africa), Lusaka (Zambia) and Harare (Zimbabwe). These additions enhance SolitAir’s cargo network across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, offering businesses faster and more resilient supply chains.
Industry forecasts highlight the region’s potential. According to Boeing’s World Air Cargo Forecast, African air cargo volumes are set to double in the next 20 years, with demand fueled by economic growth, trade liberalization, and rising e-commerce activity. In line with this trajectory, SolitAir is positioning itself to capture a growing share of the market.
“As SolitAir proudly inaugurates eight destinations in Africa, we’re tapping into a region whose air cargo sector is on a growth spurt,” said Hamdi Osman, Founder & CEO of SolitAir. “Africa’s recent double-digit growth in cargo demand reflects its readiness for investment, and SolitAir is perfectly positioned to connect these markets with Dubai and beyond.”
Supporting the route expansion, SolitAir has added a Boeing 737-800 freighter to its fleet, with another set to join next month, bringing its total fleet to seven aircraft. The airline aims to expand to 20 freighters by 2027, connecting more than 50 cities within a six-hour flight radius of Dubai.
Operating from its 220,000-square-foot logistics hub at DWC, SolitAir’s fleet is optimized for transporting specialized cargo, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, hazardous materials, and e-commerce shipments. With a focus on reliability, speed, and efficiency, the airline continues to strengthen its role as a key player in the Global South cargo market.
