Rwanda Strengthens Global Air Links with New Deals Signed with UK and Panama

The Government of Rwanda has signed two bilateral air services agreements with the United Kingdom and Panama, strengthening cooperation in civil aviation and paving the way for expanded air connectivity, trade, and tourism.

The agreements were signed in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on November 11, 2025, during the International Civil Aviation Negotiations (ICAN) Conference, a global forum that brings together states to discuss and enhance air transport partnerships.

The Rwanda–United Kingdom agreement was signed by Ambassador Prosper Higiro, Rwanda’s envoy to Canada and the Dominican Republic, and Mark Bosly, the UK Government’s Head of Air Services Negotiations.

The Rwanda–Panama agreement was signed between Ambassador Higiro and Marcos Castillo Masis, the Director General of Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority.

In a statement, the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) said the agreements will help open new routes and opportunities between the countries involved, fostering business, investment, and tourism exchanges.“These bilateral agreements pave the way for deeper cooperation in air transport, opening new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment while supporting affordable air travel and economic growth through increased competition,” RCAA said.

The accords, known as Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA), grant airlines the right to operate passenger and cargo services between the signatory countries. Under BASA arrangements, states agree on several operational parameters, including the number of flights, designated airports, pricing frameworks, and aviation safety standards.

Through these agreements, Rwanda aims to strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub, expanding the reach of RwandAir and enhancing connectivity for passengers and cargo across multiple continents.

The move aligns with Rwanda’s broader vision to develop its aviation industry as a key pillar of economic growth  supported by modern infrastructure such as Bugesera International Airport, which is nearing completion, and strategic partnerships that attract investment and boost competitiveness in regional and global markets.