The history of Air Namibia dates back to 1946, when the country’s first airline, South West Airways, was established. South West Airways was the first commercial airline in South West Africa (now Namibia) and operated domestic flights between the capital Windhoek and the coastal town of Walvis Bay. The airline was eventually acquired by the government of South West Africa in 1966, and changed its name to South West Air Transport (SWAT). The airline operated domestic flights as well as international services to Johannesburg, Salisbury, and Cape Town.

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In 1978, the South African government took control of the airline and changed its name to Namib Air. The airline was rebranded again in 1991 as Air Namibia, when the country gained its independence and the government of Namibia took control of the airline. The airline has since become the national carrier of Namibia and has established itself as a major player in the African aviation industry.

Air Namibia operates a fleet of 18 aircraft, including Airbus A319, A320, and A330 aircraft, as well as Boeing 737-700 and ATR 72-500 turboprop aircraft. The airline also operates several leased aircraft, including Boeing 777-200ER, Airbus A340-300, and Boeing 737-500 aircraft.

The airline has achieved several major milestones over the years. In 1994, Air Namibia became the first African airline to operate the Airbus A340-300, the world’s largest commercial aircraft. In 1996, Air Namibia became the first airline in Africa to use a fully automated paperless flight planning system. This system was later adopted by other African airlines. In 1998, the airline became the first African airline to introduce a fully automated check-in system.

In 2001, Air Namibia became the first African airline to offer online ticket sales. In 2004, the airline became the first African airline to be certified as a three-star airline by Skytrax, the leading international airline rating agency. In 2009, the airline became the first African airline to be certified as a four-star airline by Skytrax.

The airline has also had its share of incidents over the years. In 1987, one of its planes, a Boeing 737-200, crashed near Windhoek, killing all 30 passengers and crew on board. In 2010, the airline was the subject of a federal investigation for alleged fraud and corruption. The airline was later cleared of any wrongdoing.

Today, Air Namibia continues to be a major player in the African aviation industry. The airline operates domestic and international flights to destinations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The airline has also recently announced plans to expand its fleet and services, as it continues to grow and evolve.