RwandAir has taken delivery of its first dedicated cargo aircraft as it looks to expand its cargo operation in Africa and the Middle East.
The Boeing 737-800SF, which is painted in RwandAir’s first cargo livery, will be based at the carrier’s Kigali hub in Rwanda.
Yvonne Makolo, RwandAir chief executive, said: “The delivery of our dedicated cargo aircraft is a huge milestone in RwandAir’s fleet expansion plans.
“Cargo is of ever-increasing importance for the aviation industry, and as a landlocked country, we recognize the importance and value of good cargo connections.
“We want to ensure that Africa is seamlessly connected to the world, driving economic growth and valuable trade deals.”
With up to 20 percent lower fuel use and CO2 emissions per tonne, B737-800BCF operators are carrying more payload with less fuel.
The aircraft features a large cargo door, a cargo handling system, and seating for up to four non-flying staff or passengers.
Players in the export trade sector expressed optimism about the upcoming cargo flights but also raised concerns about a sustainable solution on the costly rates as well as capacity.
Rwanda’s main export and import markets are Europe and the UAE.
The exporters say there is hope that the freighter increases their export volumes and reduces shipping costs.
Commenting on the concerns, Gakwaya said that prevailing challenges had been noted in the past, adding that there is a strategic plan for sustainable solutions.
Among them, he said, was capacity, which he believes is starting to take shape.
“It has strategically been solved. Especially if you look at the fact that we split the London, Brussels route. We don’t see an issue of space now.”
When pressed for details on the strategic plan, Gakwaya said, “Work is being done to find a sustainable solution.”
RwandAir now serves 29 destinations across East, Central, West, and Southern Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
