Regional carrier Airlink has announced the suspension of ticket sales for flights to Mozambique due to ongoing difficulties in repatriating approximately $200 million (R3.5 billion) in revenue.
Business Day reports that the airline's decision highlights a worsening crisis of blocked airline funds across Africa, with Mozambique emerging as the largest withholder of funds from airlines, totalling $205 million as of April 2025
This has been corroborated by the International Air Transport Association (Iata).
Airlink, which operates to over 45 destinations across 15 African countries, cited "considerable pressure" on its finances due to Mozambique's foreign currency shortages.
The country’s Finance Minister, Carla Loveira, confirmed on June 16 that efforts were under way with domestic banks to release the necessary foreign currency, but no timeline for resolution was provided.
This has prompted Airlink to threaten the termination of ticket issuance in Mozambique, a move that could disrupt regional travel and trade.
In a letter to Noor Momadem, president of the Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators of Mozambique (Avitum), Airlink stated that the persistent challenges in transferring locally earned revenue abroad had forced the airline to take drastic measures.
The suspension of ticket sales underscores broader concerns about the sustainability of air connectivity in key African markets, with Iata noting that Africa and the Middle East account for 85% of the $1.3 billion in global blocked airline funds.
Airlink’s decision follows other recent disruptions in Mozambique, including the cancellation of flights to Nampula in January due to a legal dispute involving a court order for aircraft seizure.
While services to Nampula were restored on January 9 after the threat was lifted, the ongoing financial strain from blocked funds continues to challenge the airline’s operations in the country.
Iata has urged governments to remove barriers to the timely repatriation of airline revenues, warning that such restrictions threaten the viability of airline operations and regional connectivity. As Airlink navigates these challenges, passengers are advised to check the airline’s website or mobile app for updates on flight availability and alternative arrangements.
