Angolan start-up carrier Air Connection Express has ordered six new Q400 turboprops from Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, in a deal valued at approximately US$198 million.
The firm purchase agreement for the six aircraft was signed with African Aero Trading on behalf of the consortium forming Air Connection Express, Transportes Aereos S.A, a domestic airline to be based in Luanda. The airline will operate the Q400s domestically to connect smaller communities and increase frequencies as a regional feeder airline to TAAG Angola Airlines, the republic’s flag carrier.
The consortium is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) formed to help build a stable domestic airline operation in Angola, with participants including TAAG Angola Airlines, ENANA, Airjet, Air26, Bestfly, Diexim, Mavewa, SJL and Air Guicango. The consortium is in the process of establishing a management team and the operational structure for Air Connection Express.
“We congratulate Air Connection Express as it launches its domestic air travel business and are pleased that the Q400 has been selected to support regional air travel in Africa,” said Jean-Paul Boutibou, vice-president, sales, Middle East and Africa at Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The Q400 has proven to be a key contributor to the growth of the network in the region, enhancing connectivity on routes that are not economically viable for larger aircraft. Today, more than 37 operators are flying the Q Series in Africa, and we look forward to adding Air Connection Express to the family of Q400 operators.”
Alcinda Pereira, representative, founding committee, at Air Connection Express, added: “We are delighted to have reached this milestone with Bombardier. With its industry-leading reliability, outstanding economics and performance capabilities, the Q400 will be instrumental in driving economic growth in Angola.”
