MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s state-owned carrier has outlined an ambitious five-year growth plan aimed at transforming the airline into a leading connector between Africa and Europe, while playing a pivotal role in boosting the national economy.
Peter Ulanga, CEO of Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), said the airline is positioning itself as a major contributor to Tanzania’s economic transformation by supporting the tourism industry and enhancing regional and international connectivity.
“Our vision is to become a strong link in the global air network, particularly connecting Africa to Europe,” Ulanga stated during a press briefing in Dar es Salaam, the country’s commercial hub.
Ulanga emphasized that the carrier’s strategy aligns with Tanzania’s broader economic goals as outlined in the national Development Vision 2025, which prioritizes infrastructure development, industrialization, and regional integration.
Currently, Air Tanzania operates modern fleets, including the Airbus A220 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, allowing it to serve both regional and long-haul routes. Plans are underway to expand this fleet to meet growing demand and reach new destinations.
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The strategy is also closely tied to the country’s thriving tourism sector, which contributes significantly to Tanzania’s GDP. With globally recognized attractions such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and the historic islands of Zanzibar, efficient air connectivity remains crucial to attracting international tourists.
As part of the five-year outlook, Ulanga noted that ATCL plans to increase the number of direct flights to African capitals and European cities. The airline is also preparing to integrate more fully with regional aviation initiatives and benefit from frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to foster intra-African trade.
“We’re looking at a future where our airline not only boosts tourism but also supports trade, investment, and human capital mobility across East Africa and beyond,” he added.
The airline also plans to invest in staff development, digital systems, and customer experience improvements to meet global aviation standards. These efforts are expected to enhance its competitive edge within the African aviation market.
With growing support from the Tanzanian government and the airline’s increasingly strategic role, ATCL’s future looks promising. If successfully implemented, the five-year plan could see Tanzania emerge as a key aviation hub in Africa—benefitting both its citizens and the wider regional economy.
