Rwanda's National Carrier, RwandAir has cancelled its flights to major cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This comes after the Congolese government announced its decision to suspend Rwanda’s national carrier from its airspace.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 28, the national carrier said it had “decided to cancel all flights to Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Goma with immediate effect.
“We are sorry for the inconvenience and disruption this may cause to our customers,” the airline said, “and we will waive change of reservation fees and offer re-issues or refunds for those affected.”
The airline added that its “number one priority” was the safety and security of its customers and crew.
RwandAir launched its maiden flight to DR Congo in April 2019. Less than one year ago, Lubumbashi became its third destination in Rwanda’s western neighbour and a major trade partner, according to reports by Rwanda government affiliated newspaper - New Times.
The Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya announced the suspension of RwandAir earlier on Saturday, alleging that Rwanda supports the rebel group M23, allegations Rwanda denies.
Muyaya said the Kinshasa government would also summon Rwanda's ambassador in DRC Vincent Karegyeya.