Boeing and Air Tanzania Make History with First 767 Freighter Delivery in Africa

Boeing and Air Tanzania are celebrating the delivery of the airline’s first 767-300 Freighter. The delivery also marks the first direct 767 Freighter delivery from Boeing to an African carrier. (Image credit: Boeing)

Boeing and Air Tanzania are celebrating the delivery of Air Tanzania’s inaugural 767-300ERF Freighter, marking a significant milestone in expanding air freight capabilities in Africa. The dedicated freighter will cater to the growing demand for cargo services in the East African nation, supporting its import and export market. This delivery also represents the first direct delivery of a 767 Freighter from Boeing to an African carrier.

The arrival of the 767 Freighter at Air Tanzania’s hub in Dar es Salaam brings dedicated air freight capacity to the operator, addressing the previous reliance on passenger aircraft for cargo transportation. Eng. Ladislaus Matindi, Managing Director of Air Tanzania, expressed excitement about the addition of the 767, emphasizing its role in promoting a more sustainable future and enabling timely cargo schedules across Africa and beyond.

The 767-300ERF’s fuel efficiency, operational flexibility, and low noise levels make it well-suited for the growing e-commerce and express cargo markets. With a range of 3,255 nautical miles and a payload capacity exceeding 52 tonnes, the 767-300 Freighter is ideal for transporting perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other time-sensitive products.

Anbessie Yitbarek, Vice President of Africa Sales and Marketing at Boeing Commercial Airplanes, highlighted how the 767 Freighter will enhance Air Tanzania’s operations, enabling greater efficiency and flexibility throughout its network. The airline’s cargo customers now have expanded options as freight connectivity strengthens between Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Air Tanzania, currently operating commercial service across Africa and Asia, already operates two 787-8 Dreamliners, with additional orders for one more 787-8 and two 737 MAX jets. The introduction of the dedicated freighter signifies the airline’s commitment to expanding its cargo capabilities and supporting the national economy’s growth through enhanced imports and exports.

With the arrival of the first 767 Freighter in Africa, Boeing and Air Tanzania set the stage for increased air cargo operations on the continent, opening new opportunities for global businesses to transport commercial goods and contributing to economic development.