Astral Aviation has opted to delay its efforts to secure a European air operator’s certificate (AOC), shifting its attention toward strengthening operations in Asia and Africa instead. According to CEO Sanjeev Gadhia, the airline has reassessed its priorities, choosing to pause plans for European expansion in favor of focusing on opportunities in regions with higher growth potential.
The Kenyan cargo airline had initially explored establishing an AOC in Malta and Ireland, but given recent market developments, including a drop in airfreight volumes from Europe to Africa, the focus is now on different regions. Gadhia explained that the weakening demand, partly driven by a strong euro, influenced this decision. “At the moment, we have postponed our plans for having a European AOC. We feel that we may need to focus more on China and Africa,” he said.
Astral Aviation’s attention is now squarely on expanding its reach across the African continent. With the backing of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), the airline is positioning itself to capitalize on regional growth. The airline’s expansion strategy involves a three-hub model, with Nairobi and Johannesburg as key nodes and a growing connection to Asia through Hong Kong.
Additionally, Gadhia’s investment in Suid Cargo Airlines (based in Johannesburg) remains central to his broader vision. Suid Cargo, which has recently received its international service license, is still awaiting full certification in South Africa. The carrier is preparing to roll out a scheduled network and gradually increase its fleet, starting with a B737-300(F).
On the fleet front, Astral has been making significant changes, retiring older models such as the B757-200(PCF) and B727-200(F) to modernize its operations. The airline currently operates a B737-400(SF) leased from Avmax Aircraft Leasing and a B767-200(SF) through a sale/leaseback deal. Gadhia also confirmed that Astral plans to introduce a B767-300F by mid-2025 and is considering adding more B737-800 freighters by 2026 and 2027 to further enhance its cargo capacity.