Angolan airline, TAAG Angola, has decided to add four more Boeing aircraft to its fleet, with the purchase of 787 Dreamliners.

Boeing and TAAG Angola Airlines have announced that the African carrier is adding the highly fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner to its fleet with an order for four widebody jets.

“Our goal is to work with the best manufacturers in the world towards a multi-type fleet, in order to ensure we have the appropriate airplanes for each flight typology, namely our intercontinental connections. The 787 option suits our intent for modern, size-wise and efficient equipment, able to progressively replace our current widebody fleet, and provide our customers with an improved flight experience,” says Eduardo Fairen, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines.

“The 787 Dreamliner will enable TAAG Angola Airlines to open new routes and expand their international network. The Dreamliner’s market-leading efficiency and passenger comfort will advance the carrier’s fleet modernization plans,” says Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa.

According to a press statement, TAAG Angola Airlines currently flies five 777-300ER (Extended Range) jets, three 777-200ERs and seven 737-700s to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China.

Boeing says that as per its Commercial Market Outlook for Africa the continent will need 1,025 airplanes over the next two decades. Overall African air traffic growth is forecast at 7.4 pc, the third highest among global regions and faster than the global average growth of 6.1 pc, adds the statement.

Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 370 new nonstop routes around the world. Boeing says that the 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel use and emissions by 25 pc compared to the airplanes it replaces. Passengers enjoy a better experience with the largest windows of any jet, air that is more humid and pressurised at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, large overhead bins, soothing LED lighting, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

TAAG Angola Airlines was founded in 1938 and it is based in Luanda, Angola’s capital city. TAAG is the leading airline in the country, connecting 12 domestic and 13 international destinations for passenger transport as well as air cargo services.