Air Congo Launches Paris Service with Dreamliner: How to Book Tickets to Kinshasa Now

As of August 18, Air Congo has launched its new route between Kinshasa and Paris-Charles de Gaulle, marking a significant milestone for travelers looking to connect the Congolese capital to Europe. Operated five times a week with a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, this service complements the existing route to Brussels, offering an additional option to reach Central Africa from France. But how can you book your tickets and take advantage of this new opportunity? Here’s what you need to know.

The airline, in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, offers a triangular route: Kinshasa–Brussels–Paris–Kinshasa. The flight departs Kinshasa at 10:00, arrives in Brussels at 19:00, then departs again at 20:30 for Paris, where it lands at 21:30. The return flight, under the number ET099, departs Paris at 23:00 and arrives in Kinshasa at 06:10 the following day. These timings allow passengers to integrate Paris into an existing long-haul program based in Brussels while offering valuable flexibility.

The aircraft used, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner registered as ET-ASI, features a hybrid livery combining the colors of Air Congo and Ethiopian Airlines. This technical choice enables Air Congo to operate flights to the European Union without using an aircraft registered under a Congolese certificate—a regulatory constraint linked to the EU’s list of banned airlines. The service is operated under an ACMI (wet lease) agreement, where Ethiopian Airlines provides the aircraft, crews, maintenance, and insurance.

For interested passengers, booking is now available on Air Congo’s website or through partner travel agencies. Fares vary depending on the season and chosen class, with options in Economy and Business class. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak periods such as the end-of-year holidays or school vacations, when demand can be high.

Why is this new route a boon for French travelers?

This launch comes at a time when direct links between France and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remain limited. Air France, the main competitor on this route, operates direct flights between Paris and Kinshasa, but Air Congo’s presence offers an additional alternative with timings tailored to travelers seeking to avoid lengthy layovers or complex connections. Moreover, this service aligns with a strategy to strengthen ties between Europe and Central Africa, a growing market for tourism, business, and family exchanges.

Passengers traveling to or from Kinshasa can now benefit from a new option, with seamless connections to other African or European destinations served by Ethiopian Airlines. For those looking to explore the DRC, this route provides a practical gateway, while Congolese residents in Europe will find a more direct way to return home.

What are the advantages of the Dreamliner for this route?

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, renowned for its comfort and energy efficiency, is a major asset for this new route. With a range of 13,620 kilometers, it is perfectly suited for long-haul flights like Kinshasa-Paris without technical stops. On board, passengers enjoy a quieter cabin, humidified air to reduce fatigue, and larger windows for better views. The two-class configuration (Economy and Business) caters to different types of travelers, whether for business or leisure.

Business class, in particular, offers spacious seats with increased legroom, an adjustable table, and à la carte dining. In Economy class, passengers benefit from extra shoulder and elbow room, along with a modern in-flight entertainment system. These features make the Dreamliner a preferred choice for long-haul flights where comfort is a key consideration.

How is Air Congo positioning itself against competitors?

Air Congo is a joint venture owned 51% by the Congolese state and 49% by Ethiopian Airlines. Established in 2024, it began commercial operations in December of the same year, with a network focused on the Congolese domestic market before expanding to Europe. This new Paris route complements the existing service to Brussels, confirming the airline’s ambition to strengthen its presence in Africa and Europe.

Facing Air France, which also serves Kinshasa directly, Air Congo is banking on competitive fares and greater flexibility, particularly for travelers looking to avoid intermediate stops. The airline could also attract passengers seeking new options to reach Central Africa, a booming market for tourism and business. With its strategic partnerships and modern fleet, Air Congo is positioning itself as a key player in Europe-Africa connections.

Booking your tickets: the steps to follow

To book a flight with Air Congo between Kinshasa and Paris, several options are available. You can start by visiting the airline’s official website, where you’ll find schedules, fares, and real-time availability. Tickets are typically released several months in advance, allowing you to plan your trip early and secure the best fares. It’s also possible to book through online travel agencies or flight comparison sites, which often offer promotional deals or packages including accommodation.

For travelers looking to combine their flight with other destinations, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Congo’s partner, offers connections to numerous African and European cities. This allows for customized itineraries tailored to each passenger’s needs. Be sure to check included baggage allowances and additional services, such as loyalty programs or upgrade options.

Finally, for travelers departing from Kinshasa, it’s important to verify entry requirements for France, including visa and health requirements. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is among the countries whose nationals must obtain a visa to enter the Schengen area, with some exceptions. Also, ensure you have travel insurance covering any unforeseen events during your stay.

With Air Congo’s arrival on the Kinshasa-Paris route, travelers now have a new option to connect these two capitals. Whether for business, family visits, or holidays in Central Africa, this service offers a practical and comfortable alternative, supported by a modern fleet and strategic partnerships. It’s time to book your tickets and discover this new travel opportunity!