RwandAir has adjusted its flight paths following the Democratic Republic of Congo’s decision to close its airspace to Rwandan-registered aircraft, the airline has announced.
In a statement, RwandAir reassured passengers that it is working to provide the safest and most efficient alternatives while minimizing disruptions.
The airline had already suspended flights to DR Congo in May 2022 after the Congolese government accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels. Rwanda has denied the allegations, arguing that DR Congo is using it as a scapegoat for internal governance failures, including the long-standing persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities, for whom the M23 rebels claim to fight.
Rwanda also cites security concerns over DR Congo’s collaboration with the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned terrorist group formed by perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Additionally, Rwanda has expressed concern over statements by Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, who has threatened to push for regime change in Kigali.
