Liberian president George Weah Welcomes Air-France to Monrovia

Starting 2020, Air France will resume flights to Liberia's capital city, Monrovia after a 5-year break.

The president of the country, George Weah took time to specially announced the return of the international carrier to the country, saying it is a reflection of his administration's drive in making Liberia a business haven for investors.

President Weah took to Twitter to announce the of Air France flights to the West African country.

"I am excited to announce the return of Air France to Liberia. This is a testament of the measures we have put in place to promote a conducive business climate – wherein we can attract more businesses and investments to Liberia," the president said on Twitter.

A local news portal, FrontPage Africa quoted transport minister as confirming that the French national carrier was set to return.

"Mr Jean Luc Mévellec, the regional airlines' manager, informed the minister that the Roberts International Airport would be among its new destinations beginning 2020," the report said.

Air France had five years ago suspended flights to the West African country citing the poor state of the runway in Liberia's international airport. 

According to reports, the airport had not experienced any significant upgrades since 1970. There was also the case of the Ebola outbreak in the country five years ago, which was the straw that broke the camel's back and saw many international businesses leaving the country.

The upgrades and the declaration of Liberia as Ebola-free are two significant reasons why Air France has resumed operation in the country.

A large part of the credits for the airport upgrade should, however, go to the former Liberian president, Ms Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The erstwhile leader made the renovation of Monrovia's Roberts International Airport, RIA a national emergency.

Her administration made the renovation a priority during the last stages of her time as president of the country.

At the moment, only SN Brussels of Belgium and Royal Air Maroc of Morocco are the only European carriers plying the route.

Ethiopian Airline, Africa's largest and most profitable airline, does not fly to Monrovia. President Weah has called on Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to help intervene in bringing Ethiopia Airlines back to Liberia.

Header Image Credit: RFI