Boeing strengthens hold on African market as TAAG Angola’s first 787 Dreamliner touches down in Luanda
January 31, 2025
TAAG Angola Airlines is expanding and modernising its fleet having taken delivery of the first of four 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The 787-9 touched down in the Angolan capital of Luanda, ahead of the country’s Liberation Day on 4 February, debuting the airline’s new livery.
With Boeing projecting that Africa will need 1,170 aircraft over the next two decades, Boeing already represents around 70% of the aircraft market across the continent with more than 60 airlines operating around 500 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa.
The delivery of the new 787 Dreamliner, which is on lease to TAAG from AerCap, strengthens a long-standing 50-year relationship between the airline and the OEM. The Angolan flag-carrier currently operates a fleet primarily comprised of Boeing aircraft with five 777-300ERs, three 777-2000ERs and seven next-gen 737s currently in service connecting Angola to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China. The airline’s fleet also features an Airbus A220 and four De Havilland Canada DHC-8s.
Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales Africa, commented that the delivery of the 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.”
Yitbarek was joined by Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines, who explained that as the airline looks to replace its ageing widebody fleet, the delivery of the 787-9 is a “pivotal step in our strategy to modernise TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet”, as it will bring “the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands.”
Recognised for its fuel efficiency, the 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the aircraft it will replace. The Angolan falg-carrier is also collaborating with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reductions associated with blended sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through a book and claim process, which will deliver the blended SAF acquired by TAAG to nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.
With plans to develop its network further across Europe, as well as in Asia and North America, the Dreamliner will enable the carrier to expand its long-haul network. The airline’s existing network connects Angola to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China.
