Africa World Airlines Weighs Larger Jets to Expand Range
Africa World Airlines is evaluating a potential fleet upgauge as it looks to extend range and unlock new markets beyond the limits of its current Embraer E145 operations. The privately owned Ghanaian carrier has not yet made a final decision, but senior management says the assessment of larger aircraft is actively under way.
Speaking on the AviaDev Africa podcast, Africa World Airlines’ newly appointed chief operating officer, Sohail Mahmood, said the airline has reached an inflection point. He noted that while the E145 has served the carrier well, management is now examining what aircraft type would best support its next phase of growth. Mahmood confirmed that options are being studied, though he stopped short of identifying a preferred model.
The intention to upgauge is not new. In June 2025, the airline outlined two parallel expansion paths: leasing additional E145s or introducing larger Embraer E190 aircraft. Sourcing younger E145s has proven difficult, however, as availability of aircraft under 20 years old has tightened, pushing the airline to seriously consider moving up in size.
Fleet data shows Africa World Airlines operates seven E145s, with two currently inactive. Mahmood stressed that the type will remain the backbone of the airline for the foreseeable future, describing it as exceptionally well suited to African operating conditions. He highlighted the aircraft’s reliability, ease of maintenance, and strong performance on short sectors, making it ideal for building new routes between cities less than an hour apart.
At the same time, Mahmood acknowledged the E145’s limitations in altitude, payload, and range. He cited the example of a potential Accra–Dakar service, noting that the aircraft cannot operate the sector efficiently due to fuel and capacity constraints. To pursue such routes, the airline would need a larger aircraft offering greater seating, cargo capability, and operational flexibility.
Africa World Airlines operates a hub-and-spoke model from Kotoka International Airport, with daily domestic flights to Takoradi, Kumasi, and Tamale. Regionally, it serves Abidjan and Lagos, while a four-times-weekly Accra–Ouagadougou route launched in July 2025 has performed particularly well. Mahmood said two additional destinations are under evaluation, with decisions guided by detailed market research and data-driven analysis.
The airline is backed by a mix of Ghanaian and Chinese investors. Ghanaian shareholders include SAS Finance Group, led by founder Togbe Afede XIV, and the Social Security and National Insurance Trust. Minority stakes are held by Hainan Airlines Holding and the China-Africa Development Fund.
Looking ahead, Mahmood said his goal over the next two to three years is to turn Africa World Airlines into a benchmark West African carrier, operating to international standards while expanding its network in a disciplined, sustainable way.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com