Air Tanzania Expands Long-Haul Fleet with Third Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

Air Tanzania, the national flag carrier of Tanzania, has recently taken delivery of its third Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, further strengthening its long-haul capabilities.

The aircraft, named “The Great Serengeti Migration,” was welcomed at Zanzibar’s Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on August 20, 2024, by the President of Zanzibar, Hon. Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, on behalf of the President of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.

During the welcoming ceremony, President Mwinyi highlighted the importance of this acquisition for both Air Tanzania and the broader Tanzanian economy.

He stated that the new Dreamliner would not only improve the airline’s service offerings but also contribute to the growth of tourism and trade in Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania.

The President emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the airline’s development, which is seen as crucial for boosting the country’s connectivity and economic progress.

The addition of this Dreamliner is part of Air Tanzania’s strategic plan to expand its fleet, currently made of three Dash 8-Q400, four Airbus 220-300, one Boeing 767-300F, two Boeing 737 MAX 9s, and two Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners.

Air Tanzania has been actively expanding its route network, serving 12 domestic destinations and connecting Tanzania with 11 countries.

For his part, Air Tanzania CEO Ladislaus Matindi emphasized the importance of the Dreamliner in providing “unrivaled in-flight comfort and ultra-efficiency for our long-haul growth” and noted that this aircraft will enhance the airline’s ability to meet increasing passenger and cargo demands both within Africa and beyond.

The Tanzanian government has been a strong supporter of Air Tanzania’s revival, providing significant financial backing, including a recent bailout of approximately USD 194 million to ensure the airline’s stability and growth.

In his 2024/25 budget speech, Tanzania’s Minister of Transport, Prof. Makame Mnyaa Mbarawa, mentioned several key points regarding Air Tanzania’s development, noting that the transport sector continues to make a significant contribution to the country’s economic growth and that the development of airports, the purchase of aircraft and aircraft guidance equipment is a priority for enhancing the airline’s operational capabilities.