RwandAir adds first dedicated freighter

RwandAir has taken delivery of its first dedicated cargo aircraft as it looks to expand its cargo operation in Africa and the Middle East.

The Boeing 737-800SF, which is painted in RwandAir’s first cargo livery, will be based at the carrier’s Kigali hub in Rwanda.

The carrier said that the freighter would be utilised on flights to destinations in Africa and the Middle East, including Johannesburg, Nairobi, and the UAE.

Yvonne Makolo, RwandAir chief executive, said: “The delivery of our dedicated cargo aircraft is a huge milestone in RwandAir’s fleet expansion plans.

“Cargo is of ever-increasing importance for the aviation industry, and as a landlocked country, we recognise the importance and value of good cargo connections.

“We want to ensure that Africa is seamlessly connected to the world, driving economic growth and valuable trade deals.”

Air Cargo News first reported that the carrier, which is 49% owned by Qatar Airways, was looking to acquire a freighter in September 2020.