21st January 2008 16:57arf1410Congo
Aside from Hewa Bora, anyone else currently operating jets in the Congo? Also, anyone been to Kinshasa lately and know what conditions are like there for the business traveller?
Hi arf,
If you don't mind flying on shabbily-maintained airplanes, you might actually enjoy travelling around the Congo.
If you're flying business class -and keep in mind this is my personal opinion- you'll find service on any of the Congolese airlines better than a US domestic flight. You'll get reasonably courteous staff, good meal, drink, etc..... However the airplanes are decrepit, antiques, and showing sign of age, eg shabby interiors, flimsy seats, etc....
Keep in mind that all Congolese airlines and charter companies are blacklisted from flying in Europe (safety reasons). Hewa Bora had an exception last year for their L1011 and it carried through with their B767-200, but for $ reasons they had to give up that airplane.
jt