Boeing has delivered the first of four Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplanes to TAAG Angola Airlines, introducing the airline’s new livery and marking a historic milestone in its fleet modernisation journey. The delivery, ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, coincides with the nearly 50th anniversary of TAAG Angola’s inaugural aircraft, a Boeing 737-200.
This advanced 787-9 Dreamliner, leased from AerCap, is poised to redefine TAAG’s operational capabilities. Highlighting the significance of this addition, Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines, stated, “The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet. This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”
TAAG Angola Airlines currently operates a diverse fleet, including five 777-300ERs, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, serving 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and China. The introduction of the 787 Dreamliner will enhance its ability to expand long-haul operations, with plans to explore new routes in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to nbessie Yitbarek, Vice President of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa, “The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe. Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”
The 787 Dreamliner is central to TAAG Angola Airlines’ sustainability and modernisation goals. Known for its advanced technologies and fuel efficiency, the aircraft reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to its predecessors. Furthering its commitment to environmental responsibility, TAAG has partnered with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reductions tied to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the innovative “book-and-claim” system. This initiative ensures that SAF certificates translate to tangible emissions reductions within the aviation industry.
The delivery of the Dreamliner also underscores Boeing’s enduring role in Africa’s aviation sector. As part of its Commercial Market Outlook, Boeing anticipates the need for 1,170 airplanes across Africa over the next two decades. Currently, Boeing aircraft comprise approximately 70% of the continent’s commercial fleet, serving over 60 airlines.
This landmark event signifies not only a leap forward for TAAG Angola Airlines but also reinforces the strategic partnership between TAAG and Boeing in advancing aviation excellence across Africa.
