By Fifi Rhodes
WINDHOEK
Air Namibia yesterday received the first of two Boeing 737-500s, to fulfil its regional obligations.
“Tourism is already a crucial part of Namibia’s economy and is of increasing importance. It is projected to rise over the next decade at well above the global growth rate. We, at Air Namibia are not just watching the developments, we are an integral part that is making it happen and we shall continue to do so,” said Chief Executive Officer, Cosmos Egumbo, as he showed off the twin-engine 107-seater jet at the Hosea Kutako International Airport.
The national carrier expects to carry 181 000 passengers on regional flights before the end of this financial year, compared to 175 000 last year.
Speaking at the same occasion, Deputy Minister of Finance, Tjikero Tweya, said the new plane is part of innovation backed by focussed and visionary leadership.
“We need to educate our people not to see Air Namibia as a burden, but see the profit that it brings in tourists and investors to the country. We came through rough turbulences and rides but now it is better. Air Namibia is a priority to Namibia. It is our child and we will defend it till the last minute,” he said.
He congratulated the board and management of Air Namibia for a job well done.
The 737-500 is the shortest and smallest member of the second-generation 737-300/-400/-500 families, offering better fuel economy and incorporating the latest technology in aircraft design and operation.
The aircraft is leased from Capex Leasing Limited for five years.
“The Boeing 737-500 with a superior reliability, fuel efficiency and economic performance will be used to serve regional routes like Luanda, Cape Town and Johannesburg. The jet was configured to seat 107 passengers, 20 in first class and 87 in economic class,” Egumbo said.
“In line with our vision of being safe and reliable, we have negotiated and secured the services of a comprehensive maintenance and support programme, customised to the company’s profile.”
Air Namibia received the prestigious ACSA Feather Award for the third time in four years and flies to the Oliver Tambo International Airport in South Africa, among top international carriers.