Gabonese airline Afrijet, a leader in Central Africa, placed a firm order on Thursday for the acquisition of an ATR 42-600 aircraft and even a second aircraft of the same type as an option, from the world’s number one manufacturer of regional aircraft ATR. This new aircraft, which is scheduled for delivery in 2025 – the second optional one should arrive in 2026 – will be operated under the colors of FlyGabon, the domestic airline operating company, whose inaugural flight took place on August 31.
This acquisition aims to modernize FlyGabon’s fleet, replacing the previous generation ATR 42-500, and to meet the growing needs for air transport, both intra-muros and in the region. This new aircraft is expected to improve connectivity and stimulate the local economy, it was learned.
“With the acquisition of the ATR 42-600, FlyGabon marks a new stage in the constitution of its fleet. The aircraft replaces Afrijet’s ATR 42-500 which has gone into maintenance and will leave the fleet next year. With 46 seats and equipped with the most modern technologies, we have the right module to meet the specificities of passenger traffic and provincial airport facilities.”said Nyl Moret-Mba, Managing Director of Afrijet.
Gamba, Makokou, Tchibanga, Mouila, Mayumba, Koulamoutou and Lambaréné are the destinations favored by Afrijet-FlyGabon for its short distances.
Ideal for providing affordable connectivity to the most isolated communities and with a capacity of 46 seats, the ATR 42-600 has the lowest cost per seat in its category. It burns 30% less fuel than similarly sized regional jets and is capable of operating in harsh environments. The ATR 42-600 also offers “unparalleled environmental performance and operational flexibility”it is emphasized.
“As we strengthen an already successful partnership with Afrijet, we are honored to support the launch of FlyGabon. This agreement demonstrates our commitment to providing the most cost-effective, versatile and low-carbon regional aircraft, while contributing to the growth of our partners and providing affordable regional mobility. The combination of the ATR 42 and 72 models will provide FlyGabon with maximum flexibility for efficient operations over the long term,” said Alexis Vidal, ATR’s Commercial Director.
Gabon recently acquired, through the holding company, Fly Gabon Holding, the majority of the capital of the airline Afrijet. The latter now operates under two (2) separate brands: FlyGabon for domestic routes and Afrijet for regional flights.
While FlyGabon is initially focusing on the domestic market, the national flag will nevertheless extend beyond Gabonese borders, with the aim of opening a connection to Johannesburg, South Africa, using an Airbus 320 already acquired, by the end of 2024.
Alph’-Whilem Eslie
Proposed by Darina Stone Mikala and Roberte Adé
2024-09-19 23:56:09
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