RwandAir Continues Fleet Refresh As Two More 737-800s Arrive

Rwanda’s national carrier received two Boeing 737-800 aircraft on Aug. 27, one of which is already in operation.

 

Additionally, newly serviced aircraft are returning to operations, and another widebody is expected in the fourth quarter of this year.

 

The national carrier says the move will improve reliability, reduce disruptions and enhance passenger experience as it strengthens its regional and international network.

 

The two 737-800s replace two Bombardier CRJs that have already been phased out and sold. The 737s are the backbone of the carrier’s African network and also serve Dubai and Doha.

 

In recent months, RwandAir faced what CEO Yvonne Makolo describes as “several unexpected technical disruptions” that temporarily reduced available capacity. This led to adjustments in flight schedules and inconvenienced travelers.

 

“RwandAir is pleased to have resolved the challenges to our schedules over the last weeks and to welcome our aircraft back into operation,” Makolo says.

 

“Together with the arrival of new aircraft, the strengthened fleet will enable RwandAir to improve reliability, strengthen our schedules and deliver an even better travel experience to all our passengers.”

 

The carrier will also continue operating its De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400s on domestic and regional routes, though Makolo says the airline has struggled to source replacement parts for the turboprops and that eventual replacements are under consideration.

 

Looking ahead, Makolo tells Aviation Week for an interview with African Aerospace magazine that the airline expects to take delivery of a widebody Airbus A330-200 in the fourth quarter of this year, expanding its capacity for long-haul flights. The airline has also set an ambitious goal of doubling its fleet over the next five years.

 

“The investment in both narrowbody and widebody aircraft reflects RwandAir’s strategic focus on intra-Africa travel and our goal of connecting Africa to the world,” Makolo says.