Algiers, Algeria – Air Algérie took delivery of its first aircraft under its fleet renewal and expansion program yesterday evening at Houari Boumediene International Airport. The acquisition is expected to significantly boost Algerian air transport activity both regionally and internationally in the medium term. The ceremony was overseen by the Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport, Said Sayoud.
The aircraft is an Airbus A330neo, configured with 308 seats. It is scheduled to make its inaugural commercial flight to Montreal, Canada, this Saturday.
The delivery ceremony was attended by the CEO of Air Algérie, Hamza Benhamouda, the Director-General of Algerian Customs, Major General Abdelhafidh Bakhouch, and the Secretary-General of the General Union of Algerian Workers, Amar Tagjout.
In his address, Minister Sayoud emphasized that the arrival of the aircraft, named “November 54,” marks “a real beginning towards achieving a comprehensive vision for the development of national air transport and strengthening Algeria’s position on the international stage,” in accordance with the instructions of the President of Algeria, Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
The Minister further stated that the new program “will enable the company to expand its flight network to African countries, Arab capitals, and major cities around the world, and restore its competitive position internationally.” He added that “the fleet renewal program responds to the increasing demand for air transport and provides passengers with higher quality and more comfortable services,” which requires creating new momentum at the level of national airports through development and modernization projects.
In this regard, the Minister revealed that the modernization project of Algiers International Airport will be launched as soon as possible, affirming that “the state has allocated a huge budget to it” to transform it into “a smart airport with international standards that keeps pace with digital transformation in air transport services.”
For his part, Benhamouda stated that the delivery of this aircraft represents “the beginning of a new phase in the process of developing the national fleet, and a qualitative leap in the operational vision and future services of the company,” noting that the launch of the fleet expansion and strengthening program comes “in the glorious month of November, the month of epics, the spirit of sacrifice and pride, where the greatness of will and the sublimity of belonging are manifested.”
