Air France closes its Mali operation as flights remain halted since 2023

Air France has fully stopped all operations in Mali, permanently closing its local office as the Sahel's air links are reshaped by geopolitical tensions. A letter dated June 15 stated the Mali office will cease operations with effect from June 30, 2026, without detailing reasons. Air France had suspended flights to Bamako, Ouagadougou, and Niamey on August 7, 2023 after Niger closed its airspace following a coup on July 26, 2023. Before the suspension, the carrier operated seven weekly flights to Bamako, five to Ouagadougou, and four to Niamey.

Corsair had temporarily filled some routes, while Turkish Airlines also operated, though Corsair suspended flights to Bamako through June 26, 2026, as part of a broader realignment of Sahel air services. The broader Sahel upheaval includes deteriorating France–Africa ties, frequent airspace closures, and security concerns around Bamako that deter commercial traffic. Mali's junta has yet to authorize resumption of Air France services, and relations with France and other neighbors remain strained. The overall impact is a reshaping of regional air traffic, with implications for travelers and regional carriers alike.