Diplomatic Tensions Emerge Over Ground Handling Services at Zanzibar International Airport
In a significant development, international airlines are challenging ground handling requirements at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, potentially threatening future flight operations to Zanzibar.
Air France and KLM have raised serious concerns about the mandatory switch to Dnata Zanzibar as the exclusive ground handler, citing critical security and insurance considerations. The airlines warned they might suspend their flights to Zanzibar and potentially cancel planned route expansions if their demands are not addressed.
The dispute originated from a September 2022 notice by Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) mandating international airlines to register with Dnata or relocate to Terminal 2. However, the affected airlines have firmly rejected this directive, maintaining their current ground handler arrangement.
Diplomatic channels have been activated, with bilateral communications highlighting potential disruptions to air travel connectivity. The airlines emphasized their existing contractual obligations and their preference to continue operating from Terminal 3, where they have been active since October 2021.
The standoff has escalated to involve diplomatic missions, with warnings of potential flight cancellations and route suspension. This development could significantly impact tourism and international travel connections to Zanzibar and Tanzania.
As negotiations continue behind the scenes, the aviation industry watches closely to see how this complex dispute will be resolved, with potential implications for international airline operations in the region.
