Air Tanzania is not only the national airline of the Republic of Tanzania, but also the flag carrier airline of the country and operates both domestic and international flights. If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania, Air Tanzania can be a convenient and reliable option for air travel within the country and beyond.
Air Tanzania Company Limited abbreviated as ATCLÂ and otherwise known in the national language, Swahili as Kampuni ya Ndege ya Tanzania, is headquartered in Dar es Salaam and has a hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport.
It was founded in 1977 as Air Tanzania Corporation (ATC) following the collapse of East African Airways, and it has been a member of the African Airlines Association since its inception. The airline was entirely owned by the Tanzanian government until 2002 when it was partially privatized in collaboration with South African Airways, but the government repurchased the shares in 2006, restoring it to wholly owned government status.
The late Tanzanian President John Magufuli launched a fresh initiative in 2016 to revitalize the national carrier by purchasing more aircraft from Bombardier and Boeing. The airline also planned to quadruple its fleet to 14 planes by 2022 and expand its long-haul and regional operations.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Air Tanzania, from its history and routes to its services and safety record.
History of Air Tanzania
The Air Tanzania Corporation (ATC) was formed on March 11, 1977, following the dissolution of East African Airways (EAA), which had previously serviced the region. EAA’s liquidation followed the buildup of US$120 million in debt. Despite being equal partners, Tanzania and Uganda did not receive a fair share of the former carrier’s assets, according to Andy Chande, the founding chairman of the board.
The airline began operations with a leased Douglas DC-9-32 from Kenya Airways and later bought two Boeing 737s funded by a US bank. It also rented planes from Air Madagascar. In 1980, four Fokker F27s and four DHC-6-300 Twin Otters were added. Due to decreased demand, two Fokker 27s were rendered obsolete in 1981.
These aircraft returned to service in 1983, but were later decommissioned.
Air Tanzania began operating a Boeing 767-200ER leased from Ethiopian Airlines in May 1991, however, the aircraft proved too big and was returned to the lessor in February 1992.In 1994, the airline had a profit of $650,000.
Due to its irregular flight schedule, the airline’s abbreviation ATC was jokingly referred to as “Any Time Cancellation” throughout the 1990s.
Routes and Schedules
Air Tanzania operates domestic flights to several destinations within Tanzania, including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Kilimanjaro, Mbeya, Mtwara, Mwanza, and Zanzibar. The airline also operates international flights to several destinations in Africa, including Johannesburg, Harare, Lusaka, and Entebbe.
Air Tanzania’s flight schedules are designed to cater to the needs of both business and leisure travelers, with frequent flights on popular routes. The airline also offers competitive fares, making it an affordable option for air travel in Tanzania.
Domestic Destinations
Air Tanzania operates flights to several domestic destinations in Tanzania, including:
Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam is the largest city and former capital of Tanzania. It is located on the eastern coast of the country and is a major commercial and financial center. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Dar es Salaam from several destinations, making it a popular starting point for tourists visiting Tanzania.
Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and is located in northeastern Tanzania. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Kilimanjaro from several destinations in Tanzania, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to climb the mountain or explore the surrounding area.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Zanzibar from several destinations in Tanzania, making it a popular choice for tourists looking to relax and soak up the sun.
Mwanza
Mwanza is a city in northwestern Tanzania located on the southern shore of Lake Victoria. It is known for its scenic views of the lake and its bustling markets. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Mwanza from several destinations in Tanzania, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the region.
International Destinations
In addition to domestic destinations, Air Tanzania also operates flights to several international destinations. These include:
Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya. It is a major commercial and financial center in East Africa and is a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Nairobi from Dar es Salaam.
Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is known for its vibrant culture and history. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Johannesburg from Dar es Salaam, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore South Africa.
Entebbe, Uganda
Entebbe is a town in central Uganda located on the shore of Lake Victoria. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife. Air Tanzania operates regular flights to Entebbe from Dar es Salaam.
Services and Amenities
Air Tanzania provides its passengers with a range of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable flight. Some of the services offered by the airline include:
In-flight Entertainment
Air Tanzania offers a selection of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and music, on its international flights. The airline also provides complimentary earphones to passengers.
Refreshments
Air Tanzania provides complimentary refreshments, including meals and beverages, on all its international flights. Passengers on domestic flights are provided with snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
Baggage Allowance
Passengers on Air Tanzania are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage and one checked-in luggage. The maximum weight for hand luggage is 7kg, while the maximum weight for checked-in luggage is 30kg for international flights and 23kg for domestic flights.
Safety Record
Air Tanzania has a good safety record, with no major accidents or incidents recorded in recent years. The airline has invested in modern aircraft and regularly trains its pilots and crew to ensure passenger safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How can I book a flight with Air Tanzania? Ans: You can book a flight with Air Tanzania online through the airline’s website or by visiting one of its sales offices.
- What is the baggage allowance for Air Tanzania? Ans: Passengers on Air Tanzania are allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage and one checked-in luggage. The maximum weight for hand luggage is 7kg, while the maximum weight for checked-in luggage is 30kg for international flights and 23kg for domestic flights.
- What is the check-in time for Air Tanzania flights? Ans: Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time for international flights and one hour before the scheduled departure time for domestic flights.
- Does Air Tanzania offer in-flight entertainment? Ans: Yes, Air Tanzania offers a selection of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and music, on its international flights.
- Is Air Tanzania a safe airline? Ans: Yes, Air Tanzania has a good safety record and invests in modern aircraft and regular training for its pilots and crew to ensure passenger safety.
- Can I change my Air Tanzania booking? Ans: Yes, you can change your Air Tanzania booking by contacting the airline’s customer service or visiting one of its sales offices. However, fees and restrictions may apply depending on the fare type and the time of the change.
Air Tanzania – The Wings Of Kilimanjaro
Air Tanzania is a reliable and convenient airline option for travelers to Tanzania and beyond. With its extensive route network, competitive fares, and range of services and amenities, Air Tanzania is a great choice for both business and leisure travel. Additionally, the airline’s commitment to passenger safety and modern aircraft makes it a trusted option for air travel in East Africa.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to Tanzania or are already in the country, consider flying with Air Tanzania, dubbed “The Wings of Kilimanjaro” for a safe and comfortable air travel experience.