Malawi Airlines Expands Regional Operations with 737-700 Service

Malawi Airlines (3W) is set to bolster its regional network with a strategic expansion plan encompassing Mozambique, Rwanda, and Uganda. This initiative follows the recent integration of a B737-700 into its fleet, acquired from minority shareholder Ethiopian Airlines (ET).

The newly added B737-700, with registration ET-AVP (msn 33787), arrived in Lilongwe from Addis Ababa International on October 23, as per ADS-B data. Equipped with 102 economy and 16 business class seats, the aircraft will play a pivotal role in meeting the growing demand for air travel and supporting Malawi Airlines’ regional network expansion. Charles Ngambi, the airline’s commercial manager, revealed plans to introduce daily flight schedules to destinations including Pemba and Nampula in Mozambique, Kigali in Rwanda, and Entebbe/Kampala in Uganda. Additionally, an evening flight to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo in South Africa is on the horizon.

Contrary to speculation, the B737-700, ET-AVP, is not a replacement but an addition to the fleet, clarifies a company spokesperson. The De Havilland Aircraft of Canada turboprop, DHC-8-Q400 ET-AQB (msn 4419), currently undergoing C-check maintenance in Addis Ababa, is expected to return to Malawian service in December.

Malawi Airlines, a joint venture with the Malawi government holding a 51% stake and Ethiopian Airlines holding 49%, aims to enhance its regional connectivity. Operating a 154-seater B737-800 (ET-APO, msn 40963) since December 2022, the airline has strategically positioned itself on high-volume regional routes connecting Blantyre, Lilongwe, Johannesburg, and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta in Kenya. The B737-800 replaced an earlier B737-700 sourced from Ethiopian Airlines.

Founded in 2014 as the successor to the state-owned Air Malawi, Malawi Airlines obtained its air operator’s certificate (AOC) on January 3, 2014. The recent fleet expansion and regional network plans underscore the airline’s commitment to providing enhanced connectivity and services to passengers across the African continent. As Malawi Airlines takes these strides, travelers can anticipate more options and convenience in their regional air travel experiences.