Air Algerie Receives Government Okay To Order 15 New Aircraft

Simple Flying

By Luke Bodell

Published May 10, 2022

The airline will seek out long-haul aircraft as it expands its international network.

Air Algérie needs to replace older aircraft, such as its five Boeing B737-600s, which are more than 20 years old. Photo: Getty Images

Air Algérie has received government approval to purchase 15 new aircraft, which it will use to expand its network across Africa and Asia. While we know it is in the market for long-haul aircraft, there is no further information on which planes the Algerian carrier hopes to acquire.

Government authorizes order for 15 new aircraft

Air Algérie will expand its fleet with an order for 15 new aircraft after receiving the all-clear from the Algerian government. According to Reuters, the Council of Ministers approved the order after a meeting on Sunday.

The Council of Ministers stated,

"[We] authorize the airline Air Algérie to acquire 15 planes for the opening of new routes, in particular to African and Asian countries, in addition to the purchase of ships for the transport of passengers, goods and cereals."

Algeria-domestic-carrier — Photo: Getty Images

The country's national carrier will embark on its first fleet renewal drive since 2016, which saw the addition of Boeing 737 and Airbus A330 aircraft. Its renewal program was suspended indefinitely in 2020 in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

The airline's new fleet renewal strategy could cost upwards of $1.7 billion and is part of a broader restructuring initiative involving separating the airline into distinct entities.

Air Algérie has said it plans to study its network possibilities before deciding which aircraft it needs. While the new aircraft will be capable of long-haul operations, the airline hasn't suggested which type it is interested in. Air Algérie currently operates a mix of Boeing and Airbus planes.

Expanding long-haul operations

As confirmed by the Algerian government, Air Algérie's new aircraft will help the carrier expand its international network, particularly across Africa and Asia. The airline currently flies to 28 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and North America, offering 44 international destinations and 35 domestic routes.

Air Algérie has suffered from financial difficulties for several years now, with the COVID pandemic exacerbating the situation. The airline has been reliant on state aid to stay afloat after receiving multiple financial bailouts over the years.

During the Council of Ministers meeting on Sunday, the government also approved Air Algérie’s new flight schedule ahead of the summer season.

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The Air Algérie fleet

Air Algérie's fleet currently consists of 55 aircraft - eight Airbus A330-200s, 25 Boeing 737-800s, two Boeing 737-700s, five Boeing 737-600s, and 15 ATR 72s.

The airline hasn't updated its fleet since 2016. Photo: Getty Images

The average age of Air Algérie's fleet exceeds 14 years old, with several of its aircraft approaching the end of their shelf life, including a significant chunk of its Boeing 737 fleet.

What are your thoughts on Air Algérie's fleet renewal plans? Which aircraft do you think the airline should purchase? Let us know your insights in the comments.

Source: Reuters