Africa Faces New Travel Frenzy as Air Côte d’Ivoire, Air Algérie, CemAir, Fastjet Zimbabwe and CAA Airlines Cancel 11 Flights, Stranding Passengers Across Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Port Bouet, and Other Airports: Latest Update

Published on August 28, 2025

Travel disruptions have struck several African airlines, including Air Côte d’Ivoire, Air Algérie, CemAir, Fastjet Zimbabwe, and CAA African. These airlines are facing major travel challenges with 11 flight cancellations across key locations such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Algeria, and more. Passengers have been left stranded at airports like Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Port Bouet, and others. The cancellations have created a ripple effect, causing significant delays and forcing many to rebook or find alternative travel options. While the reasons for these disruptions are varied, including operational and technical challenges, affected travelers are urged to stay updated through their airlines’ communication channels. Whether you are traveling to or from Cape Town, Victoria Falls, or other airports, it’s crucial to check for any updates regarding your flight. Passengers are encouraged to reach out to their airlines for rebooking and compensation details.

Affected Airports and Cities

The affected airports and cities include Port Bouet (Felix Houphouet Boigny Int’l) and Senou Int’l in Ivory Coast, with disruptions to Air Côte d’Ivoire’s flights. Conakry Int’l (Gbessia Int’l) in Guinea also faced cancellations. Es Senia (Oran), El Bayadh, Houari Boumedienne (Algiers), Bou Chekif, and Bechar Ouakda in Algeria were impacted by Air Algérie’s flight disruptions. OR Tambo Int’l in South Africa, along with Kimberley and Cape Town Int’l, saw cancellations on CemAir’s network. In Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls and Harare International were affected by Fastjet Zimbabwe’s service suspensions. Additionally, N’Djili Int’l (Kinshasa), Mbuji Mayi, and Kananga in the Democratic Republic of Congo experienced cancellations on CAA African’s routes. These disruptions have left many passengers stranded and forced to seek alternative travel arrangements.

Air Côte d’Ivoire

Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national airline of Ivory Coast, has faced significant disruptions with 2 flight cancellations and 3 delays. The airline has yet to provide specific reasons for these cancellations and delays, but typical causes for such disruptions in regional networks include aircraft maintenance issues, crew shortages, or operational delays. Passengers on affected flights are advised to contact the airline directly for rebooking options or to explore refund procedures. For future planning, travelers should keep an eye on any updates via the airline’s official communication channels or by visiting the Air Côte d’Ivoire website. This will allow for real-time information on rebookings, cancellations, and any further operational adjustments.

Air Algérie

Air Algérie, Algeria’s flagship carrier, also announced 3 flight cancellations and 78 delays. While Air Algérie has not provided a detailed explanation, such cancellations are usually caused by a combination of operational and logistical challenges. These may include technical problems with aircraft, delays in crew arrivals, or air traffic control issues. Additionally, strikes or unforeseen weather patterns could have contributed to the cancellations.

Passengers are encouraged to reach out to the airline’s customer service for further instructions on rebooking or to discuss compensation options. As a precaution, travelers should always confirm their flight status well ahead of departure by checking the airline’s official channels or using their mobile app.

CemAir

The airline also faced complications linked to infrastructure issues at Plettenberg Bay Airport, where safety concerns were raised, and the airport’s operating license was called into question. This has led to significant operational delays for CemAir’s domestic flights, with 2 flight cancellations and 2 delays.

Passengers affected by these issues should contact CemAir’s customer service for assistance with rebooking. Additionally, travelers should be prepared for longer-than-usual wait times when dealing with customer service due to the backlog created by the system failure.

Fastjet Zimbabwe

Fastjet Zimbabwe, a low-cost carrier operating in Southern Africa, with 2 flight cancellations and 2 delays, While the airline has not disclosed the full extent of the security threats, these measures are typically implemented in response to unrest or safety threats in specific regions.

As always, it is crucial for travelers to verify their flight status and explore other routes or alternatives if necessary. Keeping informed through official airline communication will minimize stress in the event of a security-related disruption.

CAA African

CAA African, based in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with 2 flight cancellations and 2 delays. Operational decisions, such as crew availability or low passenger demand, can cause such cancellations. Additionally, the ongoing challenges with infrastructure and aircraft availability in regions like Central Africa often contribute to flight disruptions.

Passengers are advised to check the airline’s website or call the customer service department for assistance with rebooking. CAA African will likely provide compensation or alternative arrangements, but travelers should be proactive in seeking out solutions.

Recommendations for Affected Passengers

If you’re traveling with one of the affected airlines, here are a few important steps to follow:

• Check Airline Websites Regularly: Airlines are continually updating passengers about cancellations, delays, and rebooking options on their official websites. Make sure to stay informed.
• Contact Customer Service: For assistance with rebooking or refunds, always reach out to the airline’s customer service. Be patient, as airlines are often handling large volumes of inquiries during such disruptions.
• Consider Travel Insurance: If you’re affected by a cancellation, it’s advisable to check with your travel insurance provider for compensation eligibility. Many travel insurance policies cover disruptions like flight cancellations or delays.
• Explore Alternative Routes: Depending on the circumstances, it may be worthwhile to check for alternate routes with other carriers to minimize delays.

Conclusion

The cancellations affecting several major African airlines this week highlight the complex and unpredictable nature of the aviation industry. While operational challenges, infrastructure issues, and security concerns are common factors, passengers can still take steps to manage disruptions effectively.

Travelers affected by these cancellations should remain calm, stay informed, and seek out the best possible alternatives to continue their journey. As always, the key to managing air travel disruptions lies in staying updated and proactive.

Source: FlightAware

Image credit: www.fastjet.com