Air Namibia – The Rise and Fall of Namibia’s National Carrier Air Namibia, the national airline of Namibia, had a storied history that spanned over seven decades. Established in 1947 as South West Air Transport, the airline underwent several transformations before adopting the name Air Namibia in 1991. A Storied History In its early years, the airline operated domestic flights within Namibia and provided feeder services for South African Airways. Over time, it expanded its network to include international destinations, becoming the country's flag carrier. Fleet and Operations At its peak, Air Namibia operated a diverse fleet, including Airbus A319s, A330s, and Embraer ERJ-135s. The airline served numerous destinations across Africa and Europe, with hubs at Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport and Windhoek Eros Airport. Financial Challenges and Liquidation Despite its extensive network, Air Namibia faced persistent financial difficulties. The airline was heavily reliant on government subsidies, receiving approximately N$11 billion between 1999 and 2019. In February 2021, the Namibian government announced the immediate cessation of operations and the liquidation of Air Namibia due to overwhelming debt and years of financial dependence. At the time of closure, the airline operated nine aircraft and employed approximately 600 staff. Legacy and Future Prospects The liquidation of Air Namibia marked the end of an era in Namibian aviation. However, discussions about reviving the national carrier have been ongoing. In April 2025, the Namibian government confirmed plans to relaunch Air Namibia between June and December 2026, following the completion of a market study and public-private partnership process. Air Namibia's story reflects the challenges faced by national carriers in balancing operational sustainability with national pride and connectivity. Its legacy continues to influence discussions about the future of air travel in Namibia.