Qatar Airways acquired a 25% stake in South Africa’s regional carrier Airlink in a bid to expand its operations

The national airline of Qatar Airways has purchased a 25% share in Airlink, a regional carrier in South Africa, with the intention of growing its operations throughout the continent. 

It is anticipated that the investment in Airlink, which serves more than 45 destinations in 15 African nations, will strengthen the two airlines' code-sharing arrangement. According to the Gulf carrier, it will greatly support its growth strategy in Africa.

The airline will be able to grow its network, boost capacity, and broaden its marketing reach with the equity arrangement, according to Airlink Chief Executive Rodger Foster.

The Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Airlink Skybucks loyalty programs of both airlines will align as part of this partnership.

There are now 29 African destinations served by Qatar Airways. Since 2019, when Qatar Airways signed codeshare agreements with various African airlines, notably Rwandair, and acquired a 60% stake in a new multibillion-dollar international airport being built in Rwanda (near Kigali), the airline has been spearheading its Africa growth strategy.