Boeing has handed over the first of four 787 Dreamliner aircraft to TAAG Angola Airlines, introducing the airline's new paint scheme. The 787-9, along with future deliveries of this fuel-efficient widebody jet, will enhance the airline's fleet modernization efforts and long-distance travel capabilities, attracting more passengers and commerce to Angola with the industry's most advanced commercial aircraft.
The airline's inaugural 787 Dreamliner, leased from AerCap, arrived in Luanda shortly before Angola's Liberation Day on February 4, nearly 50 years after TAAG Angola received its first aircraft, a Boeing 737-200.
“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This aircraft brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our ageing widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”
TAAG Angola Airlines presently operates a fleet of five 777-300ER (Extended Range) aircraft, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, linking Angola to 12 destinations throughout Africa, Europe, South America, and China. The addition of the 787 Dreamliner will allow the airline to broaden its long-haul network, with intentions to initiate new routes to Europe and consider opportunities in Asia and North America.
“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”
The 787 Dreamliner, ordered by TAAG Angola Airlines in 2023, is central to the airline's modernization strategy. Known for its cutting-edge technologies, fuel efficiency, and superior passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner decreases fuel usage and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the aircraft it is set to replace.
At the same time as TAAG Angola Airlines receives its first 787 Dreamliner, the airline is collaborating with Boeing to buy CO2 emissions reductions linked to blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) via an accounting method known as book-and-claim. Suppliers will provide the blended SAF, acquired through these certificates, to nearby airports for use by airlines and other transport operators.
According to Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook, Africa will require 1,170 aircraft in the next 20 years. For over 75 years, Boeing aircraft have been the cornerstone of Africa's commercial fleet. Over 60 airlines operate approximately 500 Boeing aircraft across Africa, accounting for nearly 70% of the continent's aircraft market.
TAAG Angola Airlines, established in 1938, operates out of Luanda, the capital of Angola. For over 80 years, TAAG has linked Angolans to crucial domestic and international markets. As the country's premier airline, it is globally acknowledged for its robust high-yield market, expanding its network to include 12 domestic and 13 international destinations. Its fleet not only facilitates passenger transport but also provides air cargo services, which are vital for Angola's growth and development.
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