Cameroon has ratified a bilateral air transport agreement with Qatar, officially opening its skies to Qatar Airways and marking a key step in expanding the country’s international connectivity.
President Paul Biya signed the decree on January 29, 2026, validating the pact initially agreed in Doha on January 16, 2025. The ratification follows the National Assembly’s adoption of a law in December 2025 authorizing the head of state to formalize the agreement.
The accord establishes a legal framework allowing Qatar Airways to operate flights into Cameroon, covering both passenger and cargo services. Authorities said the agreement aims to strengthen links with the Middle East and Asia, enhance competition, and improve service options and fares for travellers.
“By facilitating the entry of international carriers, the agreement is expected to expand our flight network, offer more options to passengers, and boost the competitiveness of Cameroon’s air transport sector,” the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.
Cameroonian officials anticipate that Qatar Airways’ arrival will bring wider economic benefits beyond tourism and passenger transport. The government expects increased trade flows, new strategic partnerships, and the transfer of technical and operational expertise to Camair-Co, the national carrier.
Authorities also foresee additional revenues for civil aviation authorities and airports, particularly the Douala and Yaoundé hubs, which will see higher passenger and freight traffic. The Airports of Cameroon (ADC) is expected to benefit from the increased activity, boosting its profile as a regional transport hub.
Qatar Airways, one of the world’s largest international carriers, operates to more than 170 destinations worldwide. Cameroonian aviation authorities said the airline’s presence will offer businesses and investors improved access to international markets and raise the country’s visibility abroad.
“Qatar Airways’ entry into our market is a strategic opportunity to integrate Cameroon more fully into global air transport networks,” said a CCAA spokesperson. “It will also stimulate investment in airport infrastructure and encourage other foreign carriers to consider Cameroon as a destination.”
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The agreement is part of broader efforts by Cameroonian authorities to modernize the country’s aviation sector, attract foreign investment, and improve air connectivity across Africa and beyond. Over the past decade, Cameroon has sought to expand its international flight network, streamline regulations, and position Douala and Yaoundé airports as gateways for commerce and tourism.
The deal also reflects a wider trend in African aviation, where countries are increasingly liberalizing air transport markets to attract major international carriers. Analysts say such moves can help boost competition, reduce ticket prices, and increase passenger traffic, while providing opportunities for knowledge transfer and capacity-building within local airlines.
Cameroon’s government has emphasized that the partnership with Qatar Airways will complement domestic initiatives, including infrastructure upgrades at major airports and fleet modernization plans for Camair-Co. Authorities also hope that the increased international flights will help integrate the country more closely into regional and global supply chains.
Economic analysts note that beyond air transport, the deal could enhance trade and investment relations with the Middle East, particularly Qatar, by facilitating cargo movements and enabling faster business travel.
The ratification underscores the government’s commitment to liberalizing the aviation sector and attracting reputable international operators, while ensuring regulatory oversight and safety standards remain in line with global norms.
With the agreement now in effect, Cameroon is expected to welcome Qatar Airways flights in the coming months, opening new avenues for tourism, trade, and economic growth, while offering passengers greater connectivity to destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
