South African carrier Airlink has suspended the sale of flights tickets to the country due to the struggle to receive revenue earned locally.
AIRLINK SUSPENDS SALE OF TICKETS TO MOZAMBIQUE
South African airline Airlink, which also serves many surrounding countries, has suspended the sale of tickets to Mozambique. This is due to their struggle to repatriate revenues earned in the country. The move underscores a worsening crisis of blocked airline funds across Africa, raising concerns over the sustainability of air connectivity in key markets.
In a letter to Noor Momadem, president of the Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators of Mozambique (Avitum), Airlink said persistent challenges in transferring locally earned revenue abroad had placed “considerable pressure” on its finances.
“Despite our ongoing commitment to serving the region and supporting Mozambique’s tourism sector, we face persistent difficulties in repatriating funds generated from ticket sales,” read the comment.
“We are now seriously considering ending local ticketing channels in Mozambique,” read the comment.
The airline stated that if the suspension proceeds, they will provide “ample notice and support” to the affected travel agents and passangers.
BLOCKED AIRLINE REVENUES WORLDWIDE
The issue of blocked airline revenues has become a global concern. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), airlines were unable to repatriate $1.3 billion (R22.9 billion) in April 2025, with the Africa and Middle East region accounting for 85% of the total.
Mozambique has emerged as the largest single contributor to the problem, withholding $205 million (R3.61 billion) from airlines—up sharply from $127 million (2.24 billion) in October 2024. While the global total has declined from $1.7 billion (R30.0 billion) over the same period.
Finance Minister of Mozambique, Carla Loveira confirmed that the government is working with domestic banks to release the necessary foreign currency on 16 June. However, she did not provide a timeline.
Mango has reportedly lost its investor and wings.
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