The authorities of the West African country of Mali are increasing the pressure on the airlines that fly to their country or that have take-off and landing rights. In just 72 hours, the carriers had to decide whether they wanted to use their slots or not.

If there was no or negative feedback, the take-off and landing rights will be revoked. Possibly even permanently, but it is hard to imagine that the regime can do without the flight services of various international airlines. The political situation in Mali is considered extremely unstable.

Among other things, Minister Dembele Madina Sissoko told the Reuters agency that the airlines should ensure that Mali is flown to or otherwise the take-off and landing rights will be withdrawn. Only 72 hours were allowed for the decision to be communicated to the Civil Aviation Authority.

Air France was once one of the largest providers between France and Mali. The flight offer to Bamako has been suspended for some time and there is currently no prospect of a possible resumption. Other carriers, including Air Cote d'Ivoire, Air Burkina and Air Senegal, also no longer fly to Mali.