Royal Airways Tchad to Launch First International Route, Connecting N’Djamena and Douala
A new chapter is unfolding for Central African air connectivity as Royal Airways Tchad, a private airline based in N’Djamena, prepares to inaugurate its first international service. Starting from September 15, 2025, Royal Airways will begin scheduled flights between N’Djamena (Chad) and Douala (Cameroon), operating the route three times each week. This move promises to shake up regional competition by ending the longstanding duopoly held by CAMAIR-CO and ASKY Airlines on this crucial corridor.
The launch of this new service marks a significant milestone for both Chad’s aviation sector and the broader Central African market. As the only Chadian carrier currently offering scheduled international flights, Royal Airways is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s evolving air transport landscape. The N’Djamena–Douala route is known for its strong mix of business, humanitarian, and diaspora travel, underscoring the importance of robust and reliable air links between these two economic hubs.
For years, travelers between Chad and Cameroon have had limited options, with CAMAIR-CO and ASKY Airlines controlling most of the available capacity. This lack of competition has often meant fewer choices and higher fares for passengers. With Royal Airways entering the market, the airline is expected to invigorate the sector by introducing greater frequency, competitive pricing, and enhanced service standards. The increased competition could lead to improved connectivity, not only for those flying between N’Djamena and Douala, but also for onward connections to other West and Central African destinations.
Royal Airways’ entry into international operations is also a boost for local employment and skills development. By expanding its network beyond Chad’s borders, the airline is set to create new opportunities for aviation professionals, from flight crews and ground staff to marketing specialists and maintenance technicians. This expansion aligns with broader African aviation trends, where private carriers are increasingly stepping up to fill service gaps left by state-owned airlines and to respond to growing passenger demand across the continent.
The choice of Douala as the inaugural international destination reflects strong commercial logic. Douala remains Cameroon’s principal economic city and one of the busiest ports in the region, making it a vital entry point for trade, industry, and regional cooperation. By offering direct, regular flights, Royal Airways aims to support business travelers, NGOs, government delegations, and families seeking more convenient and cost-effective travel between Chad and Cameroon.
For the African travel industry, Royal Airways’ debut on the international stage signals the ongoing diversification and modernization of the region’s airline sector. As new entrants like Royal Airways break entrenched monopolies, they help foster innovation and provide more tailored services that reflect the needs of African travelers. This development also opens the door for potential code-share and interline agreements with other regional and international airlines, further improving the customer experience and supporting seamless journeys across Africa and beyond.
Looking ahead, the implications of this launch extend far beyond the N’Djamena–Douala corridor. Increased competition is likely to prompt existing carriers to review their pricing strategies, upgrade their fleets, and invest in customer service enhancements. For tour operators, travel consultants, and hospitality providers, the new route offers a fresh opportunity to develop packages and products that appeal to both business and leisure travelers—encouraging longer stays and greater economic impact in both Chad and Cameroon.
Royal Airways’ move also highlights the growing confidence of African private airlines in expanding their reach and challenging traditional market leaders. As regulatory environments continue to evolve and infrastructure investments gather pace, more airlines are expected to explore underserved routes and build direct links between African capitals. This trend is set to redefine the continent’s aviation map, making it easier for people, goods, and ideas to move across borders with unprecedented ease.
September’s inaugural flight will be closely watched by industry stakeholders, policymakers, and frequent flyers alike, all eager to see how Royal Airways’ entry reshapes the competitive landscape. With its commitment to quality service and regional integration, Royal Airways is well positioned to set new benchmarks for international air travel out of Chad—offering a glimpse into the future of African aviation, where choice and connectivity are at the heart of progress.
