Air Botswana

Air Botswana stands as the proud national flag carrier of the Republic of Botswana, serving as a vital link between the country's vibrant cities and the pristine wilderness that defines the region. Established in 1972, the airline has evolved into a modern carrier that embodies the warmth and spirit of its people, often referred to as the "Wings of Botswana." Whether you are traveling for business in the bustling capital or heading towards a safari adventure in the Okavango Delta, this airline ensures a journey marked by reliability and authentic African hospitality.

Operating from its primary base at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, the airline connects travelers to key destinations across Southern Africa. With a focus on supporting the nation's thriving tourism industry and facilitating regional trade, Air Botswana continues to upgrade its services and fleet to meet international standards.

Connecting Southern Africa

The airline's network is strategically designed to offer convenient connections for international travelers arriving via major regional hubs. Air Botswana operates high-frequency flights between Gaborone and Johannesburg, which serves as a crucial artery for passengers entering the country. Furthermore, the carrier provides essential domestic links to tourism hotspots such as Maun and Kasane, allowing seamless access for visitors eager to explore the Chobe River or the Okavango Delta.

Fleet and Experience

Air Botswana utilizes a fleet tailored to the specific needs of the region, consisting primarily of ATR 72-600 turboprops and Embraer jets. These aircraft are ideally suited for the short-haul routes and specific airstrip conditions found in some of Botswana's remote areas. The cabin experience is designed to be comfortable and efficient, with a focus on friendly service that reflects the welcoming culture of the nation.

Commitment to Safety and Quality

Safety remains a paramount priority for the airline. Air Botswana is a registered operator under the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a globally recognized benchmark for airline safety management. This certification underscores the carrier's dedication to maintaining rigorous operational standards. By combining safety with a schedule that connects key cities like Cape Town, Lusaka, and Harare, the airline positions itself as a reliable partner for travel within the Southern African Development Community.

Contacting Air Botswana in the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, Air Botswana provides dedicated local support through its General Sales Agent (GSA), New World Travels. Since the airline does not operate direct flights to the UAE, passengers typically book connections via major Southern African hubs. The carrier is based in Gaborone and offers convenient flight options connecting through Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Official Website

The most efficient way to check flight schedules, view route networks, and manage your booking is through the airline's official online portal.

• Official Website: www.airbotswana.co.bw

Contact Information

Passengers in the UAE can reach out to the local representative office in Dubai for immediate assistance with reservations and ticketing. For matters requiring direct contact with the airline's main office, the headquarters in Botswana is also available.

• UAE General Sales Agent (New World Travels): +971 4 359 5000
• UAE Email Support: reservation@newworldtravels.ae
• Headquarters Call Center: +267 368 0900 (Botswana)
• Headquarters Email: sales@airbotswana.co.bw
• International Support Line: +267 368 8400 (Available 24/7)

Social Media

Stay updated on the latest flight news, promotions, and travel announcements by following Air Botswana on their official social media channels.

• Facebook: Air Botswana on Facebook
• X (Twitter): @airbotswana
• Instagram: @air_botswana

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

When flying with Air Botswana, passengers are permitted to bring cabin baggage on board, subject to specific weight and size limitations to ensure safety and comfort for everyone. Generally, Economy Class passengers are allowed one piece of hand luggage, while Business Class travelers may be entitled to a slightly more generous allowance. The typical weight limit for carry-on items is 7kg (approximately 15 lbs). The dimensions should be such that the bag fits easily into the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers can often bring a small personal item, such as a laptop bag, handbag, or briefcase.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends on the class of travel you have booked. It is important to adhere to these limits to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance is usually 23kg (50 lbs) per passenger. This applies to both domestic flights within Botswana and regional international routes.
• Business Class: Passengers traveling in Business Class typically enjoy a higher allowance of 30kg (66 lbs).
• Infants: Passengers traveling with infants (under 2 years old) usually receive a dedicated baggage allowance, often capped at 10kg, along with a collapsible stroller or carrycot.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free baggage allowance, Air Botswana charges an excess baggage fee. These fees are typically calculated based on the weight (per kilogram) that exceeds the limit. Rates vary depending on whether you are flying domestically or internationally, for instance, on routes between Gaborone and Johannesburg. It is highly recommended to purchase extra weight allowance in advance if you know you will be carrying more than the standard limit, as airport rates can be higher.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Air Botswana understands that many travelers come to the region for adventure and may need to transport special equipment. Items such as golf bags, fishing gear, and other sports equipment can often be carried as part of your free baggage allowance if they fall within the weight limits. However, larger items like bicycles or musical instruments may require special handling or incur an additional fee. It is advisable to contact the airline at least 24 hours before your departure to make arrangements for bulky or fragile items.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include:

• Explosives, fireworks, and flares.
• Flammable liquids and solids (e.g., lighter fuel, paints).
• Corrosive materials like acids and alkalis.
• Compressed gases.

Additionally, sharp objects such as knives, scissors, and tools must be packed in your checked luggage and are not permitted in the cabin. Please ensure all spare lithium batteries are packed in your carry-on baggage, as they are generally prohibited in the hold.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a smooth journey, weigh your bags at home before leaving for the airport. If you are connecting from international flights via Cape Town or Lusaka, remember that Air Botswana's allowances might differ from intercontinental carriers, so pack accordingly. Label all your bags inside and out with your name and contact details, and keep valuable items like medication, documents, and electronics in your hand luggage.

Pet Travel Policy Overview

Air Botswana recognizes that pets are cherished family members and offers services to transport them safely across its network. Due to the specific aircraft types used for regional connections, the airline has strict regulations regarding animal transport. Generally, pets are not permitted to travel in the passenger cabin, with the majority of animals accommodated in the climate-controlled cargo hold or as manifest freight. Travelers are strongly advised to contact the airline's reservations department or local sales office well in advance to secure space, as capacity for live animals is limited.

Transport Options

Checked Baggage (AVIH)

The primary method for traveling with cats and dogs on Air Botswana is as checked baggage (Accompanied Veterinary Animal in Hold). This service allows your pet to travel on the same flight as you, ensuring you are reunited immediately upon arrival at destinations like Maun or Francistown.

• Container Requirements: Animals must be housed in a rigid, IATA-approved hard plastic or fiberglass crate. The container must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Safety and Comfort: The cargo hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure the animal's well-being. However, it is crucial that the crate is secure and escape-proof.
• Provisions: The crate must be equipped with accessible water and food bowls attached to the inside of the door, allowing staff to replenish water if necessary without opening the kennel.

Cargo Services

For larger animals, unaccompanied pets, or travel to countries with specific import protocols, shipping your pet as cargo is the mandatory option. This process involves handing the animal over at the cargo terminal rather than the passenger check-in counter.

• Suitability: This option is required for animals exceeding the weight limits for checked baggage or when the owner is not traveling on the same flight.
• Booking: Arrangements should be made through the Air Botswana Cargo department or a professional pet shipping agent to ensure all airway bill requirements are met.

Cabin Policy

Passengers should note that Air Botswana generally does not permit pets in the aircraft cabin. This policy is strictly enforced to maintain safety and comfort standards on board the carrier's regional fleet. The only exceptions are typically made for certified service animals assisting passengers with disabilities. Transport for service animals requires prior approval and valid medical and training documentation.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth journey and compliance with veterinary regulations, you must present complete paperwork at the time of check-in. Failure to have the correct documents may result in travel being refused.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: A document issued by a licensed veterinarian certifying that the animal is fit for travel and free from contagious diseases, usually dated within 10 days of the flight.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically a valid Rabies certificate, is mandatory.
• Import Permits: When traveling internationally, such as on routes from Windhoek or Durban, you must comply with the destination country's entry rules. For entry into Botswana, a Veterinary Import Permit issued by the Director of Veterinary Services is often required.

Service Costs

Transporting pets is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs additional fees.

• Weight Concept: Charges are typically calculated based on the total weight of the animal plus the container.
• Payment: Fees are generally payable at the airport before departure. It is advisable to confirm the current rates with the airline when booking your ticket.

Preparation and Restrictions

To ensure the safety of your pet, Air Botswana enforces specific restrictions and recommends standard preparation steps.

• Restricted Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats, are susceptible to respiratory issues at high altitudes. The airline may restrict their transport or require a signed liability waiver.
• Behavior: Animals displaying aggressive behavior or signs of severe illness will not be accepted for carriage.
• Acclimatization: Reduce travel stress by allowing your pet to become familiar with their travel crate in the weeks leading up to the flight.

Teemane Club Loyalty Program

Travelers frequently flying with the national carrier can maximize their journey by joining the Teemane Club, Air Botswana's exclusive frequent flyer program. Named after the Setswana word for "Diamond," the program is designed to reward loyalty with a range of privileges that enhance the travel experience, from priority airport services to generous baggage allowances.

Membership Tiers

The Teemane Club offers several membership levels, each unlocking progressively valuable benefits as you fly more frequently.

• Entry Level (Blue): Upon enrollment, members immediately start earning miles on eligible flights. This tier allows travelers to begin accumulating points toward future rewards.
• Silver: The first elite tier typically offers benefits such as priority check-in counters to save time at the airport and a bonus baggage allowance (often an extra 5kg).
• Gold: Gold members enjoy premium perks including access to airport lounges for relaxation before flights, priority boarding, and a higher excess baggage allowance (typically an extra 10kg).
• Diamond: The highest tier is reserved for the most frequent travelers, providing top-level privileges such as guaranteed seat availability on fully booked flights, maximum baggage allowances, and personalized service.

Earning Miles

Members accumulate miles based on their travel activity and ticket type. Ensure your membership number is quoted during booking or at check-in.

• Flights: Earn status and bonus miles on every ticketed flight operated by Air Botswana, including popular routes like Gaborone to Johannesburg.
• Class of Service: Business Class tickets typically earn miles at a higher rate compared to Economy Class fares.
• Retrospective Claims: If you forget to provide your number, you can usually claim missing miles by presenting your boarding pass within a specific period after travel.

Redeeming Miles

accumulated miles can be exchanged for a variety of travel rewards, making your next trip more affordable or comfortable.

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for free tickets on domestic and regional routes, such as flights to Cape Town or Maun.
• Upgrades: Use your miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class and enjoy superior comfort and service.
• Companion Awards: In some cases, members can use miles to book tickets for family members or travel companions.

Airline Partnerships

While Air Botswana is not a member of a global airline alliance like Star Alliance or oneworld, it maintains strategic partnerships to extend its reach.

• Codeshare Partners: The airline has agreements with major international carriers such as Qatar Airways, facilitating smoother connections for passengers traveling from the United Arab Emirates and beyond.
• Interline Agreements: Partnerships with other regional carriers allow for seamless baggage transfers and ticketing across broader networks in Southern Africa.

How to Join

Becoming a member of the Teemane Club is simple and free of charge.

• Online Registration: Visit the official Air Botswana website and complete the enrollment form to receive your membership number immediately.
• At the Airport: You can also inquire about membership forms at Air Botswana sales offices or check-in counters before your flight.

Air Botswana prides itself on offering a full-service experience that reflects the warmth and hospitality of the nation. Whether flying on a quick domestic hop or a longer regional journey, passengers can expect attentive service and amenities designed to make the trip comfortable and enjoyable. As a traditional carrier, the airline includes many perks in the ticket price that other airlines might charge extra for.

Classes of Service

The airline offers two distinct cabins on its jet aircraft, while its turboprop fleet primarily operates with a single-class configuration designed for efficiency on shorter routes.

Business Class

Designed for business travelers and those seeking extra comfort, Business Class is available on select regional routes, particularly those operated by the Embraer jet fleet. Passengers traveling in this premium cabin enjoy a range of exclusive benefits:

• Priority Services: Expedited check-in processes and priority boarding allow for a seamless airport experience.
• Lounge Access: Access to premium lounges at major hubs like Johannesburg and Gaborone, offering a quiet space to relax or work before departure.
• Enhanced Comfort: The cabin features wider seats with generous legroom and greater recline, often in a 1-2 configuration on regional jets, ensuring more privacy and personal space.
• Premium Catering: Guests are treated to upgraded meal options served on china, accompanied by a selection of complimentary wines, spirits, and soft drinks.

Economy Class

Economy Class on Air Botswana offers excellent value without compromising on essential comforts. It is the standard offering across the entire fleet, including the ATR 72-600 aircraft used for domestic connections to safari gateways.

• Seating: Modern, slimline leather seats are designed to maximize personal space. On the ATR fleet, the configuration is typically 2-2, meaning every passenger has either a window or an aisle seat—there are no middle seats.
• Hospitality: The cabin crew is renowned for their friendliness, providing a welcoming atmosphere from boarding to disembarkation.

In-Flight Dining

Unlike many low-cost carriers in the region, Air Botswana provides complimentary catering on all its flights. The specific offering depends on the time of day and the duration of the flight.

• Snacks and Light Meals: On short domestic hops, such as the flight to Francistown, passengers are typically served a light snack, such as a sandwich or pastry, along with a choice of hot or cold beverages.
• Full Service: On longer regional sectors, for example to Cape Town or Harare, a more substantial meal is served. This often includes a hot meal option during lunch or dinner hours.
• Beverages: A complimentary bar service is available, offering a range of juices, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and a selection of beers and wines.

Entertainment and Amenities

Given the short duration of most flights, the in-flight entertainment is focused on reading materials rather than digital screens.

• Peolwane Magazine: Passengers can enjoy the airline's award-winning in-flight magazine, Peolwane (meaning "Swallow"). It features engaging articles on travel, lifestyle, business, and culture in Botswana and the Southern African region, serving as a great guide for tourists planning their itinerary.
• Newspapers: A selection of local and regional newspapers is often available for Business Class passengers.

Special Services

Air Botswana is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering specialized assistance for those with specific needs.

• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline offers a dedicated service for children between the ages of 5 and 11 traveling alone. Ground staff and cabin crew provide supervision and care throughout the journey to ensure parents have peace of mind.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance and special handling can be arranged for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. It is essential to request these services at least 72 hours prior to departure to ensure the necessary ground equipment is available.
• Expectant Mothers and Infants: Families traveling with infants are given special attention. While bassinets are generally not available due to aircraft size, parents can carry essential infant food and supplies. Expectant mothers can travel up to 32 weeks of pregnancy without a medical certificate, provided the pregnancy is uncomplicated.

Air Botswana serves as a vital bridge within Southern Africa, operating a focused route network centered around its primary hub in Gaborone. The airline strategically connects the capital to key commercial hubs and major tourism gateways, ensuring seamless travel for visitors exploring the region's rich wildlife and cultural heritage.

Domestic Connections

Within Botswana, the airline provides essential links between the commercial centers and the country's world-renowned safari destinations. Frequent flights operate from the capital to Maun and Kasane, acting as the primary gateways for travelers heading to the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. The network also includes regular services to Francistown, supporting both business and leisure travel across the nation.

South Africa

The carrier maintains strong ties with its southern neighbor, offering high-frequency flights that cater to the significant demand for business and transit travel. The route to Johannesburg is the busiest in the network, providing multiple daily connections. Travelers can also fly directly to Cape Town, a favorite for tourists, and the coastal city of Durban, enhancing access to South Africa's diverse regions.

Regional Neighbors

Beyond Botswana and South Africa, the airline strengthens regional integration with scheduled services to neighboring countries. The network includes flights to Windhoek in Namibia, facilitating travel across the western border. To the north and east, Air Botswana connects passengers to Lusaka in Zambia and Harare in Zimbabwe, supporting the growing flow of trade and tourism within the Southern African Development Community.

Booking a flight with Air Botswana opens the door to exploring the stunning landscapes of Southern Africa. To secure the best possible fares, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. This is particularly important if you are traveling during peak safari seasons or holidays when demand is high for routes connecting through the airline's main hub in Gaborone. Early planning not only saves money but also ensures better seat availability.

Travelers looking for deals should keep an eye on the airline's official website and social media channels for seasonal promotions. Flexibility with your travel dates can often lead to significant savings, especially on popular regional routes to cities like Johannesburg or Cape Town. signing up for newsletters is another effective way to stay informed about flash sales and special offers as soon as they are released.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of online check-in procedures. This service typically allows passengers to check in via the website or mobile platform starting 24 hours before departure. completing this step online helps you avoid long queues at the airport counters, giving you more time to relax before your flight to destinations like Maun or Windhoek.

Seat selection is an important part of the booking process, especially for those who wish to enjoy aerial views of the diverse African terrain. It is advisable to select your preferred seat—whether a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for convenience—as early as possible, either during the initial booking or when online check-in opens. This ensures that families and groups can sit together comfortably.

For a smooth journey, consider downloading the airline's mobile app to manage your itinerary on the go. Additionally, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised for all international trips. Insurance provides essential protection against unexpected cancellations, luggage delays, or medical emergencies, ensuring peace of mind while you travel across the region.

Founding and Early Roots

The story of Air Botswana began in April 1972, established to serve as the national flag carrier following the dissolution of its predecessor, the Botswana National Airways. In its formative years, the airline operated as a subsidiary of the Botswana Development Corporation, primarily utilizing a modest fleet to maintain essential air links within the country. During this period, the carrier relied on contracted aircraft and management services to establish its footing in the aviation industry, laying the groundwork for what would become a symbol of national pride.

A pivotal moment in the airline's history occurred in 1988 with the passing of the Air Botswana Act. This legislation formally reconstituted the carrier as a parastatal body under the direct ownership of the government. This restructuring was a significant milestone, empowering the airline to acquire its own aircraft and manage its operations independently. It marked the transition from a managed entity to a fully-fledged national airline committed to developing Botswana's air transport infrastructure.

Fleet Evolution and Jet Age

The evolution of Air Botswana's fleet reflects its growing ambition and the changing needs of regional travel. In the late 1980s, the airline modernized its operations by introducing ATR 42 turboprops, which were perfectly suited for the hot and high conditions of the region. The carrier entered the jet age shortly thereafter with the acquisition of the British Aerospace 146 (BAe 146) in 1989. This upgrade significantly reduced flight times and improved passenger comfort on longer regional routes, such as the key connection between Gaborone and major South African hubs.

In recent years, the airline has continued to modernize its equipment to ensure reliability and environmental efficiency. The fleet saw a major refresh with the introduction of the ATR 72-600 series, known for its advanced avionics and comfortable cabin interiors. To better serve longer sectors and meet business traveler demands, Air Botswana also integrated Embraer E170 jets into its lineup. These modern aircraft have allowed the carrier to offer faster, smoother connections across Southern Africa while maintaining high safety standards.

Expansion and Route Network

Throughout its history, Air Botswana has focused on strategic expansion to link the landlocked nation with key international markets. The route network has consistently revolved around the high-demand corridor to Johannesburg, which serves as a global gateway for traffic entering Botswana. Over the decades, the airline successfully launched and sustained direct flights to other significant commercial and leisure centers, including Cape Town and Harare.

Modern developments have seen the airline reinforce its role in tourism, a cornerstone of Botswana's economy. By enhancing frequencies to domestic tourist hubs like Maun and Kasane, Air Botswana has made the world-famous Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park more accessible than ever. The carrier also expanded its regional footprint by re-introducing services to Lusaka and establishing connections with Windhoek, facilitating a seamless flow of multi-destination travel for visitors exploring the Southern African region.

Modern Developments

Today, Air Botswana continues to innovate, focusing on operational resilience and customer experience. The airline has embraced digital transformation, upgrading its reservation systems to meet international standards and launching the "Teemane Club" loyalty program to reward frequent flyers. Despite the challenges faced by the global aviation industry, the carrier remains dedicated to its mandate of providing safe, reliable, and affordable air transport, proudly flying the Botswana flag across the African skies.