Tanzania has expanded its national airline fleet from eight to 15 aircraft in just four years under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, investing more than USD 829 million (≈ TSh 1.9 trillion).
The acquisitions mark a significant step in transforming the country into a regional aviation hub, while boosting trade, tourism, and foreign exchange earnings.
The biggest investment was the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, valued at USD 225 million (≈ TSh 525 billion).
With 262 seats and an estimated 97,500 passengers per year, the aircraft positions Air Tanzania for long-haul connections to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Equally strategic is the purchase of the Boeing 767-300F freighter, costing USD 224 million (≈ TSh 520 billion).
The cargo plane can lift up to 52 tonnes per trip, translating to over 13,500 tonnes annually on five weekly flights.
Tanzania has historically relied on foreign carriers for cargo transport.
Having its own freighter reduces business costs, improves competitiveness for exporters such as farmers and miners, and increases foreign exchange inflows.
Two Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, each worth USD 120 million (≈ TSh 280 billion), have expanded the medium-haul fleet.
With 181 seats and a projected 128,800 passengers per year per aircraft, they strengthen regional and continental routes.
Air Tanzania is the first African airline to fly the MAX 9, a move that analysts say improves brand visibility and commercial reputation in competitive markets.
For domestic connectivity, Tanzania added two De Havilland Q400 turboprops, each costing USD 35 million (≈ TSh 82 billion).
Operating about four daily flights, each aircraft can transport close to 79,900 passengers annually.
These investments enhance access to remote regions, cutting travel time and supporting tourism in secondary destinations such as Kigoma, Mbeya, and Mtwara.
In addition, the government purchased a Gulfstream G700 jet for VIP use at USD 75 million (≈ TSh 175 billion). Although not revenue-generating, the jet strengthens state security and diplomacy, allowing leaders to travel efficiently in global engagements.
Cumulatively, the fleet expansion has raised Air Tanzania’s annual passenger capacity by nearly 614,000 seats, alongside 13,500 tonnes of cargo potential.
Economists note that the real value lies not only in passenger revenues but also in positioning Tanzania as a trade and logistics hub.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects Africa’s air traffic to double in the next 20 years, with East Africa among the fastest-growing markets.
By scaling its fleet, Tanzania is aligning with this growth curve. However, sustainability depends on efficient route management, fuel cost control, and partnerships with other carriers.
Critics argue that the financial burden—more than TSh 1.9 trillion in aircraft costs—could strain public resources if the airline fails to maintain profitability.
Yet government officials insist that the benefits, including lower trade costs, improved connectivity, and stronger tourism receipts, outweigh accounting losses in the short term.
As Tanzania prepares for direct intercontinental flights and increased cargo exports, the new fleet stands as both an economic tool and a symbol of national ambition.
The challenge ahead will be converting these investments into consistent financial returns and positioning Dar es Salaam as a genuine aviation gateway for East and Central Africa.