Cabo Verde Airlines has received its first Boeing 737 MAX at its base in Sal in West Africa.
The new aircraft doubles the fleet size as it already has a Boeing-700.
The aircraft is just over 4 years old and previously was flown by Comair in South Africa.
As the national carrier of Cape Verde, the airline has an important role in connecting the island nation with other countries.
The airline has a new “take-off” rebranding and the 737-8 will play a major role in this by growing tourism for the island nation from Africa, Europe, North America and South America.
At the time of writing, Cabo Verde Airlines flies to 3 domestic destinations (Sal, Praia and São Vicente) and 2 international destination (Lisbon and Paris CDG).
The aim is to renew its fleet and expand its network to previously operated routes following the pandemic. Those included flights to Brazil, Boston, Italy and Nigeria.
Sara Pires, Cabo Verde Airlines’ CEO and president:
“This is a significant moment for Cabo Verde Airlines. With the addition of the Boeing 737-8, we continue to expand our fleet to pre-pandemic levels.
“The delivery of an airplane with the capabilities of the 737-8 allows us to meet the growing travel demand to our archipelago country at the crossroads of four continents.”
Boeing 737 MAX
The 737 MAX airplane family delivers enhanced efficiency, improved environmental performance and increased passenger comfort to the single-aisle market.
Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines and advanced technology winglets, the 737 MAX reduces fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to airplanes it replaces.
Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa:
“The 737 MAX family is perfectly suited for Cabo Verde Airlines to serve prominent markets in Africa, Europe and North and South America, providing it with enhanced capability and flexibility across its network,.
“The 737-8, with its versatility and fuel efficiency, will support Cabo Verde Airlines’ goal of competing to win back market share.”
About Cabo Verde Airlines (VR)
Cabo Verde Airlines is the flag carrier of the Republic of Cabo Verde. It is 49% owned by the State of Cabo Verde and 51% by Loftleidir Cabo Verde.
It is based at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island.
Established in 1958, the airlines flies domestically within the archipelago and currently connects the islands with Lisbon and Paris.
Routes: At the time of writing (July 2023), Cabo Verde Airlines flies to 3 domestic destinations (Sal, Praia and São Vicente) and 2 international destination (Lisbon and Paris CDG).
Fleet: An all Boeing fleet of two aircraft:
- 1 Boeing 737 MAX 8
- 1 Boeing 737-700
The airlines has previously flown Boeing 757s.
Alliance: None
