Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM) announced that it has added an Airbus A319 aircraft, with a capacity of 148 passengers, to its fleet on a lease basis, aiming to reinforce operational capacity, particularly in response to increased demand during the Christmas and year-end festive period.
In a statement cited by Lusa, the airline noted that the addition of this aircraft is expected to reduce flight delays and cancellations, ensuring more regular operations and providing a more comfortable and reliable travel experience for passengers.
“With this operation, LAM now has seven aircraft in its operational fleet, a number that allows us to respond more effectively to current market needs,” the statement said, reaffirming “the commitment to continuous improvement of the passenger experience and strengthening confidence in the national public air transport service.”
On Monday, 15 December, LAM also announced the acquisition of two Embraer 190 aircraft, valued at 25 million dollars. While a small step for the airline, the operation is considered a significant advance for the country as part of the ongoing restructuring process.
The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ports and Railways of Mozambique, Agostinho Langa, a shareholder of LAM, during a press conference in Maputo. “These are not leased planes, they are LAM-owned aircraft,” he emphasised. The Embraer 190 jets are medium-sized aircraft, with a capacity of around 100 passengers, designed for regional and domestic flights. According to Agostinho Langa, the two planes cost 25 million dollars and meet European certification standards, meaning they comply with strict international safety, operation, and maintenance regulations.
For several years, LAM has faced operational challenges due to a small fleet and lack of investment, with some non-fatal incidents attributed by experts to inadequate aircraft maintenance.
In February, the government announced the sale of 91% of its shares in the airline through a private negotiation. The estimated proceeds from this sale, around 130 million dollars (8.3 billion meticais), are intended for the acquisition of eight new aircraft and the restructuring of the company.
Source: Diário Económico
