Eswatini Air is considering expanding beyond passenger services into cargo transportation, aircraft maintenance and aviation training as the state-owned airline seeks to diversify its revenue base and improve financial sustainability amid escalating fuel costs.
According to newsaero.info , the proposed initiatives were outlined by General Manager Ndumiso Shongwe during a stakeholder engagement session held at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
The airline is seeking to reduce its dependence on passenger revenues while improving cost management and consolidating its regional operations. Among the proposed diversification measures is the introduction of cargo transportation services, although the airline has not disclosed an implementation timeline, planned capacity or the aircraft intended for the operation.
Eswatini Air also intends to expand its aircraft maintenance organization (AMO) activities to serve third-party operators, potentially generating revenue from maintenance services beyond its own fleet requirements. Aviation training is another area being considered as the airline seeks to broaden its participation in the country’s aviation industry.
Solid Operational Performance
Eswatini Air’s operational performance has remained relatively strong despite the cost pressures. According to figures presented by Shongwe, the airline recorded a 95.6% on-time performance in 2026, exceeding its internal target of 95% and the regional benchmark of 85%. Its schedule completion rate stood at 99%. Passenger load factor, measuring the proportion of available seats occupied, has also improved steadily, rising from 30% in 2023 to 36% in 2024, 45% in 2025 and 58% in 2026.
Shongwe said the airline had been significantly affected by rising aviation fuel prices, which he attributed to the conflict in the Middle East. Fuel prices had increased from approximately 9-11 emalangeni ($0.52-$0.64) per litre to around E30 ($1.74), substantially increasing one of the carrier’s largest operating expenses.
Regulatory Compliance
Eswatini Air commenced commercial operations on March 27, 2023, with two Embraer ERJ 145 regional jets, each configured for 50 passengers. Its initial network comprised five destinations, with subsequent expansion including Lusaka, Zambia, from April 2026.
Alongside its commercial development, Eswatini Air is addressing outstanding regulatory and operational findings. Shongwe said the airline had closed 89% of findings identified in an audit report, with the remaining 11% at different stages of resolution. He said the ongoing Air Operator Certificate (AOC) recertification process was helping address some of the outstanding issues through the preparation and approval of updated operational manuals and supporting documentation.
