The Tanzanian aviation sector has recently accomplished the assembly of three aircraft in its local plant, marking a significant milestone. These aircraft, capable of accommodating two to four passengers, were constructed at the Airplane Africa Limited (AAL) facility, established in 2021 by a Czech company.
In October 2023, Airplanes Africa Limited (AAL), based in Morogoro, proudly exhibited the first-ever locally assembled aircraft, named the Skyleader 600, during the Tanzania International Manufacturers Expo 2023 (TIMEXPO) held at the Diamond Jubilee Hall in Dar es Salaam. Designed to transport two passengers along with the pilot, this aircraft is ideal for business travel purposes.
During a press briefing on Monday, March 18, 2024, Director General Mussa Mbura of the Tanzanian Airport Authority (TAA) hailed the aircraft assembly as a momentous achievement in the country’s aviation history. “These aircraft represent a significant milestone,” remarked the director-general, emphasizing the revenue opportunities for the government and job creation for Tanzanian citizens facilitated by AAL’s investment.
Mbura also revealed forthcoming projects, stating, “The assembly of additional aircraft is on the horizon, with one such aircraft previously exhibited at the Sabasaba industrial exhibition.”
Highlighting the unique characteristics of the AAL plant, Mbura mentioned, “This facility stands as the sole AAL branch in Africa, with branches also located in the Czech Republic, Germany, China, and Russia.”
Prof. Godius Kahyrara, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, commended the project during his visit to the plant last year, especially its role in employing local technicians. “Many technicians hired by AAL are graduates of the National Institute of Transport (NIT),” he noted, underscoring the positive impact on local employment.
