Tanzania’s aviation industry has taken a big hit after the European Union (EU) banned all Tanzanian-certified airlines from flying in its airspace. The announcement came on June 3, 2025, following a safety audit that exposed serious issues with how the country oversees its aviation sector.
So what’s the problem?
According to EU experts, Tanzania’s civil aviation authority lacks enough qualified staff, is failing to properly monitor airline operations and aircraft maintenance, and isn’t meeting global safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
In simple terms, the EU believes that Tanzania’s aviation system is not doing enough to keep flights safe. As a result, the country has been added to the EU Air Safety List, a list of airlines banned from operating in Europe.
While Tanzanian airlines weren’t running regular direct flights to Europe at the moment, the ban still has major consequences. It affects international partnerships, such as cargo shipments and code-sharing deals with other global airlines. It also damages Tanzania’s reputation, just as it’s trying to grow as a travel and business hub in East Africa.
This decision was backed by experts from all EU member countries during a meeting in Brussels in mid-May. It was also supported by top aviation authorities like the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the European Parliament’s Transport Committee.
Meanwhile, other East African countries are stepping up their game. Kenya Airways is expanding to London’s Gatwick Airport, aiming to improve access to the UK market and attract more travelers and cargo business. With competition heating up from Uganda Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines, Tanzania has some catching up to do.
By Lucky Anyanje
