TAAG Angola Airlines Welcomes First Airbus A220 Aircraft
TAAG Angola Airlines has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A220 twinjet aircraft during a ceremony at Airbus’ Mirabel assembly plant in Canada. The new aircraft showcasing the airline’s updated livery, marks a significant milestone in the Angolan national carrier’s strategy to modernize its fleet and enhance its competitiveness in the African regional market.
The Airbus A220-300 will be configured with 137 seats in a two-class layout, comprising 125 economy seats and 12 business class seats. This delivery initiates the integration of the A220 into TAAG’s fleet, which initially ordered six aircraft from Air Lease Corporation at the Farnborough Air Show in 2022. Following this, the airline placed an additional order for nine more A220s from three lessors during the Paris Airshow in 2023, bringing its total commitment to 15 aircraft.
The newly acquired A220 is expected to depart Canada shortly for its ferry flight to Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport in Luanda, the airline’s main hub. TAAG currently operates a fleet of 23 aircraft, which includes a mix of jet and turboprop-powered planes such as nine Boeing 737s, four Boeing 777-200ERs, five Boeing 777-300ERs, and six De Havilland Canada DHC-8-Q400s.
As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, TAAG Angola Airlines is not only adding the A220-300s but has also placed orders for two Boeing 787-9s and two 787-10s. These new additions will help replace the older 777-200ERs and provide additional capacity for fleet expansion.
The Airbus A220-300 offers several advantages that align with TAAG’s modernization goals. The aircraft boasts improved fuel efficiency, consuming 25% less fuel compared to previous-generation narrowbody jets. Its 3-2 main cabin configuration enhances passenger comfort, while its impressive range capability of up to 3,450 nautical miles (5,520 km) allows the airline to explore longer routes than previously possible.
The A220 has quickly become a favored choice for airlines around the world, thanks to its versatility, range, and exceptional economics across various route lengths. As of September 2024, there have been 910 orders for the Airbus A220 from approximately 30 customers, with Delta Air Lines in the U.S. operating the largest fleet of 71 aircraft. In Europe, AirBaltic stands as the largest operator with 48 A220s.
On the African continent, TAAG Angola Airlines joins the ranks of carriers such as Air Tanzania, Ibom Air, and EgyptAir, which operate four, two, and 11 A220 aircraft, respectively. However, it’s noteworthy that EgyptAir sold its entire A220 fleet to specialist lessor Azorra in February 2024.
TAAG Angola Airlines’ acquisition of the A220 represents a pivotal step in its quest for modernization and operational efficiency, positioning the airline for future growth and success in the competitive aviation landscape.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com, aerotime.com