Air Algérie Expands Fleet, Strengthens Position in African Aviation Market

This announcement comes after the official purchase of seven Airbus aircraft, in addition to the eight Boeing 737-9 Max models scheduled for delivery in 2027. These new acquisitions will increase the airline’s transport capacity, with models capable of accommodating up to 210 passengers for medium-haul and up to 450 passengers for wide-body aircraft.

Among Air Algérie’s new wide-body aircraft, two latest generation Airbus models have been chosen: the A330-900 and the A350-1000, according to TSA Algérie. These aircraft are the latest generation of wide-body aircraft offered by the European manufacturer, and are known for their low fuel consumption and lower environmental impact.

The arrival of the seven new Airbus aircraft, scheduled between 2025 and 2026, will bring the total number of wide-body aircraft in Air Algérie’s fleet to thirteen. This substantial increase confirms the international ambitions, particularly in Africa, hitherto the preserve of Morocco with its hub in Casablanca.

A head start for Royal Air Maroc

The Moroccan company, Royal Air Maroc, operates 262 flights per week to many African countries, which corresponds to 131 weekly rotations (only 34 for Air Algérie), Maghreb Intelligence reported a few weeks ago. During the high season, the company’s activity increases, particularly to Tunis and Abidjan with 28 flights for each of these destinations, Dakar with 20 flights, Cairo with 16 flights, and Conakry, Nouakchott, Bamako, and Lagos with 14 flights respectively for each city.

Casablanca plays a crucial role for Royal Air Maroc, serving as a central hub connecting Morocco to Africa and the world. "For more than 10 years, Casablanca has established itself as our main operations center. Encouraged by this situation, we have intensified our commitment by developing its airport to make it our major hub. Thanks to its strategic location, Casablanca facilitates the link between the north and the south, as well as the east and the west. As a result, we can offer flights and operate routes that connect Africa and the Middle East to the rest of the world. This is how cities like Montreal, Washington, New York or Miami in North America serve as gateways to the Middle East, Africa and Europe," a company official had said to Atalayar.

Moreover, the CEO of the Moroccan company announced a few days ago the strengthening of the lines during the summer season and the rental of at least six aircraft. A strategic plan provides for doubling the company’s fleet. This expansion, combined with a consolidation of its activities on the Europe-West Africa axis and the exploration of new geographical areas, reflects the company’s desire to become a leading international player, focused on customer satisfaction.