14 September 2023
Qatar Airways, one of the world’s most sought after airlines will not return to the local skies any time soon, but the government agency responsible for regulating the aviation sector is not ready to throw the towel in on the ill-fated partnership yet.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) has made a last ditch attempt to engage Qatar, this time pleading with the airline to consider setting up a cargo processing service in the country at the very least, according to Sunday Standard. CAAB communications Manager Modipe Nkwe said it has never been in doubt that Botswana wants to lure back the international airliner, adding that all stakeholders in the country are working collaboratively to ensure the return of the airliner.
The authority, according to Nkwe, has furnished Qatar Airways management with a proposal that seeks to coax the company back into reviving their business relations.
“The negotiations are ongoing, but nothing has been concluded. The decision on how they view business with us rests with them because we have done our part this side,” he said.
Nkwe said that CAAB had to exhaust all the available options to bring Qatar airways back ,with the priority now being to look into the potential amount of cargo to be exported, including Botswana beef. Nkwe stated that even though they are keen to retain the airliner, they are also striving to entice other international airlines. He indicated that other sectors of the economy are to be engaged on how they can penetrate the United Arab Emirates markets as this could increase the amount of cargo exported.
He said that there is enough space to accommodate international flights, adding that Sir Seretse Khama International Airport can handle Boeing 747 or similar sized aircraft while Maun International Airport, Kasane International Airport and PG Matante International Airport can handle Boeing 737 aircraft or similar.
“Furthermore, Sir Seretse Khama International Airport can handle 976 passengers during peak hours, while PG Matante can handle 650. At peak hours, Maun International Airport can handle 500 passengers, while Kasane can handle 230,” added Nkwe.
Nkwe added that roping back Qatar airways will not benefit a selective few sectors but more job opportunities are likely to come out from the deal.
“I do not think there is anyone who is not concerned that such a big aircraft has left our skies in a short time but we could not sit down and hope that they return, we had to put together a proposal so that they can look into and see potential in Botswana,” added Nkwe.
