TAAG Modernizes Fleet with New Boeing 787-9
TAAG Angola Airlines has taken a significant step in modernizing its fleet by launching its first Boeing 787-9 on a commercial flight from Luanda 4 De Fevereiro to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo on April 5. The entry into service of the new aircraft, D2-TEQ (msn 66877), was hailed by CEO Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira as a milestone that marks a new era for the state-owned carrier. The airline is positioning itself to enhance product quality and improve the overall customer experience as it embarks on an ambitious fleet modernisation program aligned with its strategic business plan for 2024-2029.
The new 787-9, seating 313 passengers, has been configured with 16 seats in business class, 21 in premium economy, and 276 in economy. This three-class configuration is designed to offer a superior travel experience with improved comfort and advanced onboard amenities. de Oliveira explained that the integration of the new jet into the regular schedule is part of a broader initiative to upgrade the airline’s fleet, reduce its environmental footprint, and boost TAAG’s competitiveness in the international market. The launch of the 787-9 not only represents a technological upgrade but also reflects the airline’s commitment to sustainable aviation and enhanced customer satisfaction.
TAAG’s CEO emphasized that the fleet modernisation program is critical to TAAG’s future growth, particularly as the airline looks to expand its long-haul network. With three more Boeing 787s expected to arrive this year, TAAG is exploring opportunities to extend its reach to new markets in Asia and Europe. One of the key routes under consideration is a potential revival of flights to Porto, Portugal, a market that has shown strong interest both from passengers and travel agents. The route, which previously operated three times weekly until the COVID-19 pandemic forced its suspension, could return with one or two flights per week. de Oliveira noted that Porto represents a promising market not only for passenger travel but also for cargo operations, as TAAG already maintains supporting infrastructure in the city.
The airline is also evaluating business cases for two additional destinations—one in Europe and one in Asia—but details remain under wraps as the assessments continue. In addition to these international expansion plans, TAAG is actively exploring opportunities in the United States through potential codeshare agreements with US or other foreign carriers, which would further broaden its network and increase its global connectivity.
Beyond the Boeing 787-9, TAAG is actively refurbishing its existing fleet to improve cabin services, onboard entertainment, and catering. The airline currently operates five Boeing 777-300ERs, two of which are undergoing refurbishment specifically to enhance the travel experience on flights to Portugal. Some Boeing 777-200ERs are also being brought back into service, with one already operating. TAAG’s diverse fleet further includes a range of Boeing 737 models—seven B737-700s, one B737-700(QC), and one B737-800(BCF)—which continue to serve the carrier’s domestic and regional routes. The airline has also recently received its first two Airbus A220-300 aircraft and has eleven more A220s on order, underscoring its commitment to fleet modernization and operational efficiency.
As TAAG Angola Airlines continues its transformation, the launch of the Boeing 787-9 stands out as a key achievement that signals renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and service excellence. This milestone not only reinforces TAAG’s position in the competitive aviation market but also sets the stage for further growth and expansion into new international markets.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com