African carrier orders 4 Boeing Dreamliners

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TAAG Angola Airlines became the latest carrier to order Boeing 787 Dreamliners in what it calls a move to make its fleet more modern and efficient.

The carrier and Boeing said the African airline has ordered four of the fuel-efficient widebody planes.

“Our goal is to work with the best manufacturers in the world toward a multi-type fleet, in order to ensure we have the appropriate airplanes for each flight typology, namely our intercontinental connections," Eduardo Fairen, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines, said in a news release. "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."

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, the release stated.

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

Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook for Africa projects that the continent will need 1,025 airplanes over the next two decades. Overall African air traffic growth is forecast at 7.4%, the third highest among global regions and above the global average growth of 6.1%.

The 787 program, which is based in North Charleston, is one of five commercial airline programs for Boeing. The company reported Oct. 10 that it delivered 19 787s in the third quarter, making 50 for the year. Most deliveries have been for the narrowbody 737 Max, with 70 for the quarter and 286 for the year. The company also has programs for defense, space and security, including the Apache and Chinook helicopters.

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