RwandAir bolsters fleet with new Boeing 737-800 aircraft to improve reliability and growth

RwandAir has strengthened its fleet this August with the arrival of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, one of which has already entered commercial service. The airline also confirmed that previously grounded aircraft, which had undergone servicing, are now back in operation. A third aircraft is expected in Q4 2025, marking a key step in enhancing operational reliability and reducing delays and cancellations.

The move comes after the airline experienced unexpected technical issues in recent months that temporarily reduced its available fleet and forced schedule adjustments. These disruptions affected customers’ travel plans, prompting RwandAir to issue an apology while assuring passengers that the problems have now been resolved.

Chief Executive Officer Yvonne Makolo expressed appreciation for customer patience during the disruption and underscored that the combination of fleet recovery and new aircraft deliveries will allow the airline to stabilise schedules, improve punctuality, and deliver an enhanced travel experience.

The newly delivered Boeing 737-800s, configured with 12 Business Class and 162 Economy Class seats, will primarily serve short- and medium-haul routes across Africa and beyond.

Looking ahead, the airline expects further expansion in Q4 2025 with the delivery of a wide-body Airbus A330-200, which will strengthen long-haul services linking Africa with key global destinations.

These fleet investments reflect RwandAir’s strategic focus on both intra-African connectivity and international expansion, aligning with its broader goal of modernising its fleet while positioning Kigali as a growing hub for regional and global travel.