Algerian Transport Minister Lazhar Hani on Monday said the government is planning to set up a company for domestic air transport to ease pressure on state carrier Air Algerie, which will focus on international flights, reported Reuters.
The announcement was made after authorities said in August they would allow the private sector to create air and sea transport firms as part of economic reforms aimed at reducing reliance on oil and gas.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has repeatedly urged his government to improve air transport services in the country.
“Air Algerie cannot cover all domestic airports. Creating a new company will allow optimal care for the transportation of citizens across the country,” Transport Minister Hani told state radio.
He said allowing the private sector to get involved in transport will help implement a new economic policy.
“Opening investment in the transport sector is a political decision required by the current economic changes,” the Algerian minister said.
The announcement follows a decision last weekend to reopen domestic airports and resume domestic flying.
On Sunday, the Algerian government said it is planning to ease the coronavirus lockdown including reopening schools and universities after a fall in the number of daily infections.
In a statement issued after a cabinet meeting, the government said under the new measures, schools and universities will reopen on October 21 and November 22 respectively.
The North African country has been resuming economic and commercial activities since June 7 as part of its efforts to return to normal life. The government has already eased restrictions relating to the novel coronavirus, including resuming public transportation as well as reopening some businesses, mosques, and leisure venues.
Algeria recorded its first infection with COVID-19 in February. The government announced the closure of all educational establishments from March 12. It has so far reported 52,270 cases and 1,768 deaths.
