Dubai-based freighter operator SolitAir has secured approval to operate services to the UK after receiving a Third Country Operator (TCO) certificate from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The airline announced the approval in a LinkedIn post on 22 July, describing the certification as an important step in expanding its international network.
“SolitAir has officially secured its United Kingdom Third Country Operator Certificate, issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority,” the carrier said.
“The approval strengthens our ability to operate across UK airspace and opens another important connection between the Global South and the Global North.”
The UK certification allows SolitAir to operate commercial air services into the country and follows the carrier’s recent progress in gaining regulatory approvals for international expansion.
Growing international footprint
The latest approval comes after SolitAir launched its first European route to Sofia, Bulgaria, following the acquisition of an Air Cargo or Mail Carrier operating into the European Union from a Third Country Airport (ACC3) designation from the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority in March.
The airline previously secured its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the United Arab Emirates’ General Civil Aviation Authority in March 2025, paving the way for the start of commercial operations.
Since launching flights in October 2024, SolitAir has expanded its network to 56 routes across more than 34 countries.
The carrier has developed a strong presence in Africa, operating services to 17 cities across the continent with Nairobi serving as a key regional hub.
Freighter fleet expansion plans
SolitAir currently operates a fleet of seven Boeing 737-800 converted freighters, each capable of carrying up to 20 tonnes of cargo.
The aircraft are equipped to transport a wide range of specialised shipments, including dangerous goods, pharmaceuticals, perishables, valuable cargo and oversized freight.
The airline is planning further expansion, with a target fleet size of 20 aircraft operating from its 20,440-square-metre cargo hub at Dubai World Central.