The European Commission has updated its EU Air Safety List, imposing a complete ban on all airlines certified in Tanzania and Suriname from operating within the European Union. The decision, announced on June 3, 2025, follows a detailed technical assessment by EU aviation safety experts, who found that the civil aviation authorities in both countries failed to meet international safety standards.
According to the European Commission, the ban was prompted by “serious deficiencies in national aviation oversight” in both Tanzania and Suriname. These include a shortage of qualified personnel, ineffective oversight of flight operations and aircraft maintenance, and non-compliance with international safety regulations. The move is intended to protect passengers and uphold the EU’s high standards for air safety.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, stated:
“Passenger safety remains our top priority. Following a detailed technical assessment, the European Commission has added all air carriers certified in Suriname and Tanzania to the EU Air Safety List due to serious deficiencies in national aviation oversight. We urge both countries to address these issues promptly. The Commission stands ready to support their efforts toward full compliance with international safety standards.”
The ban affects 36 Tanzanian airlines, including the national flag carrier Air Tanzania, which had already been on the EU safety list since December 2024. While Air Tanzania did not operate direct flights to Europe prior to the ban, the decision is a blow to the country’s aviation reputation and could impact future partnerships and code-share agreements with European carriers.
For East African travelers and businesses, the ban signals the need for urgent reforms in aviation oversight and regulatory practices. It also serves as a reminder for regional airlines and authorities to maintain strict compliance with international safety standards to avoid similar restrictions.
With this update, a total of 169 airlines are now banned from EU skies, including 142 airlines from 17 countries due to inadequate safety oversight, and 22 airlines from Russia. The EU Air Safety List is reviewed regularly and is used globally as a benchmark for aviation safety.
The European Commission has offered support to both Tanzania and Suriname to help them address the identified safety gaps. Until the necessary reforms are made and international standards are met, airlines from these countries will remain barred from European airspace
