RwandAir hits visa snag on launch of Brussels flights

RwandAir (WB, Kigali) launched its Kigali - Brussels National flight aboard A330-300 9XR-WP on July 14, but has run into technical difficulties preventing it from operating the return servicee with revenue passengers. The flight is actually a modification of its London route, with a stop in Brussels on the outward sector, operating Kigali-Brussels-London Gatwick-Kigali, which poses a problem for African nationals transiting in the UK.

"We will only operate one leg as we are still handling some administrative procedures for the return leg," the airline announced on social media. "Official launch will be announced in due course."

Rwandan passengers are not able to transit through London on the return flight from Brussels without a United Kingdom Direct Airside Transit visa which comes at a cost of GBP34 (USD44.45), reports aviation website Luchtzak.be. Essentially, the aircraft will therefore not pick up passengers in Brussels for the return flight until the 'administrative procedures' are resolved.