Angola National Carrier, TAAG Angola Airlines and aircraft manufacturing giant Boeing has announced that the airline is adding the highly fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner to its fleet with an order for four of the widebody jets.
According to a press release by the airline, TAAG Angola Airlines currently flies five 777-300ER (Extended Range) jets, three 777-200ERs and seven 737-700s to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China.
“Our goal is to work with the best manufacturers in the world towards a multi-type fleet, in order to ensure we have the appropriate airplanes for each flight typology, namely our intercontinental connections,” said Eduardo Fairen, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines.
“The 787 option suits our intent for modern, size-wise and efficient equipment, able to progressively replace our current widebody fleet, and provide our customers with an improved flight experience.”
“The 787 Dreamliner will enable TAAG Angola Airlines to open new routes and expand their international network,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president,
Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa. “The Dreamliner’s market-leading efficiency and passenger comfort will advance the carrier’s fleet modernization plans.”
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook for Africa projects that the continent will need 1,025 airplanes over the next two decades. Overall African air traffic growth is forecast at 7.4%, the third highest among global regions and above the global average growth of 6.1%.
Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 370 new nonstop routes around the world. The 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces. Passengers enjoy a better experience with the largest windows of any jet, air that is more humid and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, large overhead bins, soothing LED lighting, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride
