Why it Matters
- Ethiopian Airlines is leasing two new ATR 72-600 aircraft, which will be operated by its 49 percent-owned subsidiary, Air Congo, with service entry planned for February 2026.
- The move strengthens ATR’s presence in Africa and supports domestic connectivity in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly serving remote airports.
- This follows the strategic partnership announced at Farnborough 2024, where ATR and Ethiopian Airlines agreed to develop ATR maintenance capabilities in Ethiopia, positioning Ethiopian Airlines as a regional MRO hub for ATR operators across the continent.
- The DRC is viewed as a strategic growth market, with rising demand for reliable regional air transport. The combined aircraft lease and MRO infrastructure development represent ATR’s long-term commitment to Africa’s regional aviation growth
Strategic move strengthens ATR’s presence in Africa and supports domestic connectivity in the Democratic Republic of Congo
World’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer ATR, is proud to announce the lease by Ethiopian Airlines of two brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft, to be operated by 49%-owned Air Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s national carrier. The aircraft are scheduled to enter service in February 2026.
This agreement marks a significant milestone in ATR’s expansion in Africa, as Ethiopian Airlines, the continent’s most influential aviation group, relies on the most advanced, fuel-efficient and cost-effective regional aircraft to connect regions across Congo. The leasing deal follows the strategic partnership previously announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024, where ATR and Ethiopian Airlines agreed on a cooperation to develop ATR maintenance capabilities in Ethiopia. This initiative will position Ethiopian Airlines as a regional MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) hub for ATR aircraft, serving operators across the continent.
“With the arrival of our new ATRs and the development of our MRO capabilities to support them, Ethiopian Airlines is ready to offer a complete ATR solution, making it easier for airlines in Africa to have choices in serving regional connections across the continent,” said Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group. “We are proud to contribute our share in strengthening regional mobility in Africa, and to bring the comfort, convenience and speed of air travel to more communities.”
Mesfin Biru Weldegeorgis, CEO of Air Congo, adds: “Air Congo is proud to expand its reach across the Democratic Republic of Congo with the introduction of two new ATR 72-600 aircraft, equipped with PW127XT engines. These are the first of their kind in the country, and they will enable us to serve remote airports, enhancing domestic connectivity, stimulating economic development, and strengthening national cohesion.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, commented: “Trust and strong business relationships are built over time. Getting to know ATR better was decisive for Ethiopian Airlines and Air Congo to invest in our platform, and we are proud of the confidence that our partners have placed in us. With a fleet growth of almost 30% in the last three years, ATR is expanding its footprint across Africa, helping recreate a complete ecosystem to support our operators and future prospects in the best possible way. The recent aircraft additions across the region reaffirm that ATRs are perfectly suited to opening new routes and supporting regional growth. Their ability to operate profitably even at lower load factors make them the ideal solution for emerging markets, where affordability and accessibility are essential to unlocking connectivity.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo is emerging as a strategic market with strong potential to meet growing regional connectivity needs, driven by rapid development and increasing demand for reliable air transport. This announcement underscores ATR’s long-term commitment to Africa, where regional aviation is a vital enabler of economic and social progress. By combining aircraft delivery with strategic support infrastructure, ATR is helping to build a more connected, resilient future for the continent.
