Botswana has been selected to host AviaDev Africa 2026, the continent’s premier aviation route development conference.
The event will take place in Gaborone on 10 – 12 June 2026 at the Gaborone International Convention Centre (GICC), marking a significant milestone in Botswana’s efforts to enhance air connectivity and promote its tourism sector.
The successful bid was spearheaded by Botswana Air Access, formed in collaboration with Helm Growth Advisors under the leadership of Tim Harris. The initiative aims to improve Botswana’s air connectivity by attracting new routes and strengthening existing ones, thereby boosting tourism and trade.
Dr. Bao Mosinyi, Chief Executive Officer, Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana, expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity, “We are thrilled to welcome the AviaDev community to Botswana. This platform allows us to showcase our country’s potential as a key aviation hub and a premier safari destination. We look forward to forging new partnerships that will enhance our connectivity and economic growth.”
Jon Howell, CEO of AviaDev, shared his anticipation, “We are excited to bring AviaDev Africa 2026 to Gaborone. Botswana’s commitment to improving air access and its unique tourism offerings make it an ideal host. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders to drive sustainable aviation development in the region.”
Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone serves as the main international gateway, with Air Botswana as the national carrier. The airport facilitates connections to regional hubs such as Johannesburg, Harare, Lusaka, Cape Town, Durban and Addis Ababa. Domestically, it links key destinations including Maun and Kasane, which are gateways to major tourist attractions like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. It also links the two major cities of Gaborone and Francistown.
Botswana is renowned for its rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation. The country is home to approximately 130,000 elephants, the largest population in Africa, primarily found in Chobe National Park. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers unique wildlife experiences in a pristine environment. Botswana’s low-impact, high-value tourism model ensures the preservation of its natural heritage while providing exceptional experiences for visitors.
The country has seen a significant rebound in air traffic, reflecting renewed growth and confidence in the aviation sector. During the 2024/2025 financial year, a total of 75,874 aircraft movements were recorded at CAAB’s airports.
Furthermore, Botswana recorded a total of 859,341 passenger movement during the 2024/2025 financial year, reflecting a 9.5% increase compared to the previous year. This growth underscores a significant recovery in passenger traffic.
About AviaDev Africa:
AviaDev Africa is the leading aviation development conference for Africa, dedicated to driving growth, innovation, and collaboration in the continent’s aviation sector. With a focus on fostering partnerships and promoting route development, AviaDev brings together key stakeholders to explore opportunities, address challenges, and shape the future of African aviation.
About Botswana Air Access:
Botswana Air Access is a new initiative led by the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) in collaboration with a group of key Botswana stakeholders.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB), in partnership with the Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO), the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), Business Botswana, Travel Agent’s Association of Botswana (TAABOT) and the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB), today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch the Botswana Air Access initiative.
The project has been established to promote increased air connectivity to Botswana by securing air route retention, expansions, and introductions through strategic engagements with domestic, regional and international carriers.
