Aviation History
Malawi's national airline history began with Air Malawi, founded alongside the country's 1964 independence from Britain, which operated for nearly five decades before collapsing under debt in 2013. Ethiopian Airlines Group stepped in to help launch Malawian Airlines in 2014 as the successor flag carrier, later rebranded Malawi Airlines, and continues to provide management support under this partnership. Kamuzu International Airport near Lilongwe, opened in 1982, serves as the country's principal international gateway.
Air Malawi is established the same year Malawi gains independence from Britain, succeeding the regional Central African Airways that had served the former Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland.
A new international airport opens near Lilongwe, eventually superseding Chileka International Airport in Blantyre as Malawi's main gateway.
Air Malawi shuts down amid mounting debt and financial mismanagement, leaving Malawi temporarily without a national flag carrier.
Malawian Airlines begins operations as Air Malawi's successor, with Ethiopian Airlines Group taking a minority stake and providing management support.
The carrier is rebranded Malawi Airlines, continuing to operate under its partnership with Ethiopian Airlines.
Malawi Airlines (formerly Malawian Airlines) · Air Malawi (historical, ceased 2013)
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