AIR TRANSPORT : Emirates Airlines Plans New Air Route to Gabon

(LVDE) – This interest was expressed during a meeting between a delegation from the Dubai-based airline and the Gabonese Minister of Transport, where both parties discussed expansion opportunities in a rapidly modernizing aviation sector.

On July 6, 2025, a delegation from Emirates Airlines, led by Paulos Legesse, Regional Director for Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon, was received by the Gabonese Minister of Transport. The meeting marked an important step in discussions about launching a new air route to Gabon. At a time when the national aviation sector is modernizing and diversifying, the potential arrival of the Emirati carrier could reshape the country’s air transport landscape.

Although no specific timeline has been announced for the launch of the route, the potential impact of Emirates Airlines in Gabon is significant. With nearly 50,000 flights operated between June and August to 140 destinations worldwide, the airline could strengthen Gabon’s international connectivity while attracting new tourists and investors. This development could also help diversify Gabon’s aviation sector, creating new job opportunities and stimulating the local economy.

The Gabonese Minister of Transport highlighted the importance of this initiative, stressing that it would represent a major step forward in diversifying the airlines serving the country. “Travelers would benefit from more options, both in terms of destinations and onboard experiences, as well as fares,” he stated. Currently, about ten international airlines operate in Libreville, but Gabonese authorities are keen to strengthen the country’s position as an attractive air hub, both regionally and internationally.

This move comes as the aviation sector gradually recovers. According to the latest economic report from the Directorate General of Economy and Fiscal Policy, passenger traffic fell by 5.5% in the fourth quarter of 2024, largely due to mixed performances in international routes. However, over the full year, the total number of air passengers increased by 13.6%, showing a renewed interest in air travel.

Emirates Airlines’ initiative could also be seen as a response to this growth momentum. By increasing the number of routes to Gabon, the airline would not only help revive tourism but also strengthen economic exchanges. This aligns perfectly with Gabon’s ambitions to diversify its economy, leveraging the aviation sector to attract foreign investment.

It is also important to note that the opening of this route could encourage the development of supporting infrastructure, such as hotels and transport services, creating a ripple effect on the local economy. Gabonese authorities appear determined to position the country as a major air hub, and the arrival of a prestigious player like Emirates could well be the key to this transformation.

Esther Grace