How Is TAAG Angola modernising its fleet?

Boeing has delivered the first of four 787 Dreamliner aircraft to TAAG Angola Airlines, marking the introduction of the airline’s new livery

The 787-9, along with upcoming deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jets, will support the airline's fleet modernization and long-haul expansion, enhancing Angola's connectivity for both travelers and trade with the industry's most advanced commercial aircraft.

The first 787 Dreamliner, leased from AerCap, arrived in Luanda ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, coinciding with nearly 50 years since TAAG Angola received its inaugural 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 airplane 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.”

Currently, TAAG Angola Airlines operates five 777-300ERs, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, serving 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and China. The addition of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the airline to expand its long-haul operations, with plans to launch new routes to Europe and explore 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.”

TAAG Angola Airlines ordered the 787 Dreamliner in 2023 as a cornerstone of its modernisation strategy. Known for its cutting-edge technologies, fuel efficiency, and superior passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner achieves up to 25% reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the aircraft it replaces.

In tandem with the delivery of its first 787 Dreamliner, TAAG Angola Airlines is collaborating with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reductions related to blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) via a book-and-claim process. Distributors will ensure that the SAF, available through these purchased certificates, reaches nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.

Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook estimates that Africa will require 1,170 new airplanes over the next 20 years. Boeing has been the backbone of Africa’s commercial aviation fleet for over 75 years, with more than 60 airlines operating nearly 500 Boeing aircraft across the continent, representing almost 70% of the regional airplane market.

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