During the fourth joint cooperation commission held on July 6, Chad and Egypt signed a memorandum of understanding allowing three Egyptian airlines to operate flights to N’Djamena. The agreement encompasses two passenger carriers—whose names remain undisclosed—and one dedicated cargo operator. Official government statements highlight the initiative’s goal of fostering a robust air transport framework that enhances passenger mobility, commercial exchanges, and bilateral ties.
Strengthening air connectivity in a changing market
This strategic move arrives at a pivotal moment for Chad’s aviation sector, which has recently undergone significant shifts following Air France’s exit in 2025. While the memorandum aims to lower ticket prices and streamline transit services via Cairo, it also positions EgyptAir—Egypt’s flagship carrier—to potentially expand its regional footprint. The initiative specifically targets key demographics, including the large cohort of Chadian students pursuing education in North Africa. By welcoming these new operators, N’Djamena stands to diversify its air logistics partners and safeguard its international connectivity.
Fostering bilateral trade through air freight
The inclusion of a dedicated cargo carrier signals a broader ambition to formalize and expand bilateral trade flows, which currently remain underdeveloped. While official trade data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Inseed) indicates Egypt is not among Chad’s top commercial partners, industry analysts suggest potential synergies. Chad’s push to attract mining investments—aimed at reducing reliance on oil revenues—could align with Egypt’s extractive industry needs. The newly established air freight routes may serve as a crucial logistics link for future mining and resource agreements.
A step toward deeper regional integration
This collaboration also reinforces the positioning of North African carriers within the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (Cemac) zone. With EgyptAir already serving Cameroon, the anticipated arrival of these operators in N’Djamena would further densify air transport networks across Central Africa, creating new transit and trade opportunities.
