Air Tanzania Company Ltd (ATCL) has revealed its plans to commence cargo operations with its newly acquired Boeing 767-300 Freighter. The company announced that the cargo plane will take its inaugural flights on July 28, with Mumbai, India, and several African destinations on the initial route list. This marks a significant milestone for ATCL as it expands its operations in the cargo sector. The airline aims to cater to the increasing demand for air freight services and strengthen its presence in key international markets.
Expansion of Cargo Routes
ATCL CEO, Mr Ladislaus Matindi, shared the exciting news during the 47th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF). He stated that the airline is finalizing regulatory procedures, pilot training, and aircraft registration in preparation for the upcoming launch. The initial cargo routes will include Mumbai, Lubumbashi (DRC), Lusaka (Zambia), Harare (Zimbabwe), Nairobi (Kenya), and Entebbe (Uganda). Additionally, ATCL is exploring plans to expand its cargo flights to Kinshasa (DRC) and introduce a new route to Lagos, Nigeria. The company is also considering future routes to Dubai and China, based on the demand from the business community.
Continued Fleet Expansion
ATCL is committed to expanding its fleet to meet growing market needs. Currently operating 12 aircraft, the company plans to add three more in the near future. This expansion will include medium-range aircraft such as the Boeing 737 Max 9 and long-distance aircraft, including the Dreamliner.
Mr Matindi also acknowledged the technical issues faced with Airbus aircraft and highlighted efforts to address the defective engines. The airline anticipates returning two Airbuses to service by the end of August or early September, enabling the resumption of regular operations.
“We faced technical problems defective engines in Airbuses. It was a global issue but we expect to return two of them by the end of August or early September and start to provide service,” he said.
In March, ATCL and Air Senegal collaborated to address technical problems related to Airbus A220-300 aircraft engines. The grounding of these planes for several months prompted discussions between the two airlines on taking action against Pratt & Whitney, the engine manufacturer. While the issue is being resolved, Mr Matindi mentioned that ATR aircraft also faced similar challenges. However, the airline is optimistic about improving service delivery by mid or end of July.
The demand for ATCL’s cargo services remains high, with three aircraft currently serving Mwanza and Dodoma. Ongoing efforts are being made to ensure proper lighting at Dodoma airport, allowing travelers to choose convenient flight timings.
