Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) between Tanzania and various countries continue to demonstrate their importance in connecting Tanzania to the world. They provide the legal framework and traffic rights that enable airlines to introduce new routes and expand international services, thereby strengthening Tanzania’s connectivity to global markets. In recent months, airlines such as Brussels Airlines, Airlink, Etihad Airways, Neos and EgyptAir have initiated, resumed or expanded their services through Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of BASAs by administering air traffic rights, granting the required regulatory approvals and ensuring that airlines comply with applicable safety standards, regulations and laws. TCAA also provides professional and technical advice to the Government during the negotiation and implementation of these agreements, with the aim of enhancing air connectivity opportunities.

Among the recent developments is EgyptAir’s introduction of direct flights between Cairo and Zanzibar from September 2026. In addition, Tanzania’s national carrier, Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), commenced flights between Dar es Salaam and Moscow, Russia, in July 2026. This demonstrates how BASAs enable Tanzanian airlines to expand their networks and access new international markets.

TCAA will continue to advise the Ministry of Transport and airline operators on the opportunities available under BASAs with various countries. These agreements enable designated airlines from Tanzania and partner countries to provide air services between their respective territories, subject to the agreed traffic rights and regulatory requirements. This promotes increased travel, tourism, trade and investment.

Ultimately, BASAs contribute to strengthening Tanzania’s position in international air transport and support the country’s broader economic and development aspirations.