Qatar Airways acquires 25% stake in S.Africa’s Airlink

Qatar Airways announced on Tuesday the acquisition of a 25 per cent stake in Airlink, Southern Africa’s major independent regional carrier. The investment aims to enhance the existing codeshare partnership between the two airlines and accelerate Qatar Airways’ growth strategy across the continent.

“The investment in Airlink – which flies to more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries – will enhance a code-sharing partnership between the two airlines. The deal will bolster Qatar Airways’ Africa growth strategy and cement its role as a key driver to the continent’s economic success.” Qatar Airways statement read.

The partnership between Qatar Airways and Airlink aim to align both carriers’ loyalty programmes – Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Airlink Skybucks.

Since December 2020, Qatar Airways has significantly expanded its African network. The airline currently serves 29 destinations on the continent, including new additions such as Abidjan, Abuja, Accra, Harare, Kano, Luanda, Lusaka, and Port Harcourt. Qatar Airways has also resumed flights to Cairo and Alexandria.

Attribution: Qatar Airways statement