Eleven pilot resignations, delayed recurrent training and expired licences are driving cancellations at an airline already struggling to maintain reliable operations.
BONGANI MALUNGA
Air Botswana has blamed persistent flight delays and cancellations on a worsening pilot shortage after 11 cockpit crew members resigned during the first six months of 2026.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Serowe South MP Leepetswe Lesedi, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure acknowledged that staffing shortages and delays in pilot training had disrupted the national airline’s operations.
PILOTS DEPART
According to the ministry, the departure of experienced pilots, several of whom left for better employment opportunities, has significantly reduced the airline’s operational capacity.
“The airline is experiencing a crew shortage following the resignation of 11 pilots between January and June 2026, with some pursuing better offers elsewhere while others left for personal reasons,” the ministry said.
TRAINING DELAYS
The ministry said recurrent training had also been disrupted by external factors, including the conflict in the Middle East, where Air Botswana’s ATR72-600 pilots ordinarily undergo training.
“The Middle East war has delayed recurrent training, while a shortage of simulator examiners in Bangkok has prevented the airline from utilising available simulator slots,” the response stated.
Several pilots have consequently been grounded after their licences expired while they awaited mandatory recurrent training and requalification.
HOURS EXHAUSTED
The ministry said the remaining qualified pilots were frequently reaching the maximum number of legally permitted flight hours, leaving Air Botswana with little flexibility to operate its scheduled services.
“The available pilots often reach their maximum allowable flight hours, resulting in schedule changes, flight delays and cancellations,” the ministry noted.