Air Tanzania plans to acquire a second B787 as it expands internationally

Air Tanzania to take delivery of its first B787 in July 2018, as part of the government's purchase of six new aircraft between 2016 and 2018, which includes two CS300s and three already delivered Q400s. The carrier is currently in talks with Boeing to acquire another Dreamliner in the near future, according to the airline's chief executive, Ladislaus Matindi.

By July 2018, Air Tanzania will be operating a fleet of seven aircraft, including on existing Q300.

“We aim to establish our long-haul capability by starting flights to Europe, Asia and the US in the short-term” said Mr. Matindi, referring to the B787. China and India will be the intitial focus before targeting Europe.

Air Tanzania plans to utilize the incoming C300s on six regional routes in Southern and West Africa, including South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe intitially, followed by Ghana and Nigeria.

No word yet on exact delivery dates of the CS300s, although one has been reportedly pegged for delivery in July as well.

Air Tanzania also plans to obtain its IOSA certification from IATA by June 2018, in hopes of securing commercial partnerships.