Tassili Airlines’ integration into Air Algérie sets the stage for creation of national domestic carrier
June 27, 2025
Air Algérie has signed a transfer agreement with Algerian state-owned energy firm, Sonatrach, to take over ownership of local carrier Tassili Airlines.
The pivotal agreement paves the way for the integration of Tassiii Airlines into Algeria’s national air transport system.
Earlier this year in March, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune issued a directive to overhaul the country’s domestic air transport system through the creation of a dedicated regional carrier.
The merging of Tassili Airlines into Air Algérie’s operations is expected to streamline services, consolidate resources and deliver more reliable, accessible air travel across Algeria and the flag-carrier’s broader network.
“This deal reflects the mutual commitment of both parties to principles of governance, operational synergy and strategic complementarity in the air transport sector,” says Air Algérie.
Air Algérie gains a new regional carrier
Established in 1998, Tassili Airlines primarily serves Algeria’s domestic market from its hub at Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers. A subsidiary of Sonatrach, the carrier has focused primarily on transporting oil and gas industry workers.
It operates a fleet of Boeing 737-800s and Bombardier Q400s and also offers helicopter transfers for offshore oil platforms. In 2013 it launched its first international flight to Paris and now serves destinations in Spain and Turkiye.
Meanwhile, Air Algérie, which was founded in 1947, is one of Africa’s oldest carriers. Operating a fleet of over 50 aircraft including Airbus A330s, Boeing 737s, ATR 72s and a Hercules L 100-30, it serves destinations across Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
Air Algérie ordered both A330neos and A350-1000s in 2023, but later switched the A350 order for three more A330neos. None of the new technology aircraft have been delivered yet.
