Fastjet has completed the first phase of its Zambian air operator’s certificate (AOC) application, taking the group a small step closer to realizing its pan-African ambitions.

African low-cost carrier fastjet launched in 2012, but its plan to establish a network of fastjet-branded operations across Africa has been stilted by regulatory hurdles.

After two years, it has only established operations out of Tanzania, despite identifying major growth opportunities in Kenya, South Africa and Zambia.

In November, fastjet secured its Zambian air and has since announced it has cleared the first phase of the AOC process.

“The process to obtain permission to operate in Zambia is proceeding extremely well. We have an excellent team in Zambia, who are working positively with the local authorities to complete the approval process as efficiently as possible,” fastjet interim chairman and CEO Ed Winter said, adding that the next stage is already “well underway.”

The Zambian authorities will now evaluate fastjet Zambia’s planned company structure and its operational plan.

The airline is aiming to serve various destinations in East and Southern Africa.

Fastjet has already secured Ugandan fifth freedom rights, allowing it to deploy fastjet Tanzania aircraft between Uganda and third countries.

The group has also applied for a Kenyan Air Service License, but its international expansion plans will require further funding.