10 July 2025
Botswana, Gaborone, Air Botswana, and Dane Kondić all come to the forefront as the national airline undertakes ambitious redesign under the auspices of a newly recruited board. Headed by Dane Kondić, the erstwhile CEO of Air Serbia, the airline is crafting an extensive redesign plan to save the entity from financial crisis and organisational inefficiencies.
The newly recruited board, unveiled on June 27, 2025, has made some significant moves, including the restructuring of the fleets, contract assessments, and the stabilising of the financial instability of the airline.
This restructuring effort comes at a crucial time for Air Botswana, as it grapples with mounting challenges such as an over-leveraged fleet, a backlog of unpaid wages, and a significant absence of audited financial records since 2021. The company’s new leadership team, led by Boikanyo Ntwaagae, who is stepping in as interim general manager following the suspension of CEO Lulu Rasebotsa, is tasked with reviving the airline’s fortunes and creating a more efficient business model.
Fleet Restructuring: A leaner and more efficient air fleet
In an effort to restore profitability and improve commercial viability, the board is rethinking Air Botswana’s current fleet mix. Currently, the airline operates a modest fleet of two ATR 72-600s and a single Embraer E175. Additionally, an Embraer E170 remains grounded for maintenance, further adding to the airline’s challenges. The strategy under review suggests that the airline may adopt a leaner approach to fleet management, which includes the possibility of selective leasing arrangements to better match demand and operational needs.
Air Botswana’s fleet also consists of two Embraer E145s, which were acquired in 2024 but are currently leased to Westair Aviation due to regulatory constraints.
These planes are operated under an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) agreement, and the new leadership team is expected to continue these contracts while focusing on improving profitability.
By optimising the fleet and making prudent decisions regarding aircraft leasing and maintenance, Air Botswana aims to reduce overhead costs and improve its financial health. The introduction of more efficient aircraft and a streamlined fleet will play a crucial role in restoring confidence among passengers and stakeholders.
Leadership shake-up: Controversy and transition
One of the most significant moves by the newly appointed board has been the suspension of CEO Lulu Rasebotsa. Her suspension, pending an investigation into the airline’s financial mismanagement and operational inefficiencies, has sparked controversy within Botswana’s aviation industry. Dane Kondić’s appointment as the new board leader is considered a bold step in revamping the airline’s governance structure and bringing a fresh perspective to its operations.
However, Kondić’s dual role as CEO of Mozambique’s LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique) has caused a stir, with some questioning whether his focus would be divided. Reports have suggested, though, that Kondić has committed to focusing entirely on the turnaround efforts at Air Botswana, which is seen as critical for the airline’s future. His previous success in transforming Air Serbia has positioned him as a promising candidate to lead Air Botswana through this tumultuous period.
Financial troubles and governance gaps
The financial woes of Air Botswana are significant, with payroll shortfalls affecting employees and a lack of audited accounts for several years. This has created uncertainty both internally and externally regarding the airline’s financial health. With no clear financial reports available since 2021, it is crucial that the new leadership addresses these gaps and provides transparency to investors, employees, and stakeholders alike.
As part of its restructuring plan, the new board aims to stabilise Air Botswana’s financial position through better management practices, effective cost controls, and by securing government support. The government’s support is likely to be essential for the airline’s survival, as Air Botswana continues to face challenges in securing new routes and increasing revenue streams.
The road ahead: A strategic vision for Air Botswana
The road ahead for Air Botswana looks challenging but also offers the possibility of a revitalised and more efficient airline. Kondić’s strategy of fleet restructuring, financial recovery, and operational streamlining could help the carrier regain its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving aviation market.
With Boikanyo Ntwaagae at the helm during this transition period, the airline is focusing on improving service quality, reducing operational inefficiencies, and rebuilding trust with passengers and industry stakeholders.
However, the success of this turnaround strategy will depend heavily on the ability of the board to implement these changes swiftly and effectively.
Air Botswana’s future now hinges on whether it can regain its footing and navigate the challenges posed by a fluctuating global economy, rising fuel costs, and stiff competition from other regional airlines. The airline’s fate remains uncertain, but the initial signs of reform under Dane Kondić’s leadership provide a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
Source: Air Botswana – https://shorturl.at/5lnuQ
