The Director General of the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), Dr. Jabiri K. Bakari, and the Chairman of the TCAA Board, Dr. Hamisi Mwinyimvua, were among the stakeholders who joined the Minister for Transport, Hon. Prof. Makame Mbarawa, in welcoming the inaugural Brussels Airlines flight from Brussels, Belgium, to Tanzania through Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation, tourism and trade sectors.
The launch of the direct service is in line with the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Government of the Kingdom of Belgium, which provides the framework for air transport services between the two countries while strengthening cooperation in aviation, trade, tourism and investment.
The inaugural flight was received during a ceremony held on June 3, 2026, at Kilimanjaro International Airport and attended by government leaders, aviation stakeholders, development partners and representatives from the airline industry.
Speaking during the event, the Minister for Transport, Prof. Makame Mbarawa said, the introduction of the direct route would create new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment between Tanzania and Belgium. He noted that the achievement reflects the success of the Government’s efforts under the leadership of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, to strengthen international relations and create a conducive environment for investment and economic growth.
Prof. Mbarawa further stated that the Government continues to invest in the modernization and expansion of airport infrastructure across the country, particularly at Kilimanjaro International Airport, including the development of modern passenger facilities aimed at attracting more international airlines to operate in Tanzania.
On his part, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African Affairs, Hon. James Millya (MP), said the launch of flights from Brussels, the headquarters of the European Union (EU), demonstrates the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Tanzania, Belgium and other European nations.
He added that the direct flights will facilitate the movement of tourists, business travellers and investors between Europe and Tanzania, while enhancing connectivity and supporting economic development.
Meanwhile, Brussels Airlines representative and Lufthansa Group Vice President, Ms. Julia Hilenbrand, said the launch of the new route marks an important step in strengthening air connectivity between Tanzania and Belgium. She expressed confidence in Tanzania’s tourism and business potential, noting that the direct flights will make it easier for travellers and investors from Europe to access the country.
The launch of Brussels Airlines’ direct service between Brussels and Kilimanjaro is expected to boost tourist arrivals, facilitate trade and investment, and further position Tanzania as a key aviation, tourism and business hub in East Africa.
