Air Algérie takes first B737-8

Air Algérie (AH, Algiers) has taken delivery of the first of ten B737-8s it plans to take on lease. 

7T-VLQ (msn 44017) was ferried from Budapest to Algiers on July 9, 2026, concurrently with the first ATR72-600 for subsidiary Domestic Airlines. 

The B737-8, leased from BOC Aviation, was originally due for GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, and was even ferried to Belo Horizonte Tancredo Neves in late February 2026. However, the Brazilian airline ultimately did not take it, and the aircraft was ferried to Budapest on March 18, without operating a single revenue flight for GOL. 

Air Algérie expects another four leased B737-8s this year, and five more in 2027. It also has a firm order for eight B737-9s directly from Boeing, with the first one due in 2027.

CH Aviation / Image Flyingphotos AI

SPECIAL COLOURS - AIR ALGERIE / A330-900NEO / 7T-VLB - "Official Carrier of the National Team"

Photos: Air Algerie

The special paint scheme highlights Argentine national symbols and sporting elements that evoke the identity of the football era. The fuselage features a predominantly green base, complemented by white and red graphics, the colors of the country's flag.

The national team's mascot, the desert fox, is prominently illustrated, accompanied by the commemorative phrase "One, two, three… Viva l’Algérie" (Long live Algeria).

FLEET - MNG Airlines Deploys A321 Freighter With Air Algérie

TC-MYB-A321F-MNG -Ton Jochems - AMS

Turkish carrier MNG Airlines has deployed an Airbus A321-200P2F freighter with Air Algérie, marking a temporary boost to the national airline’s cargo capacity as it gradually expands its logistics operations.

FLEET - Air Algérie To Convert Five Aircraft Into Freighters

Air Algérie plans to convert five passenger aircraft into freighters under an agreement signed with the Société de gestion des services et infrastructures aéroportuaires d’Alger (SGSIA) to develop a new cargo terminal at Algiers Houari Boumédiène International Airport.

FLEET / ORDER - Air Algerie has ordered 10 B737-8 aircraft as part of a national strategy to develop civil air transport

Five of the aircraft will be delivered in 2H 2026 with the other five in 2027.

 

ORDER - Air Algérie has placed an additional order for one Airbus A330- 900neo, increasing its total firm commitment for the widebody aircraft to nine, according to Airbus’s latest backlog data released at the end of January.

Air Algérie has placed an additional order for one Airbus A330 900neo, increasing its total firm commitment for the widebody aircraft to nine, according to Airbus’s latest backlog data released at the end of January.

Photo: Air Algerie

 

FLEET - Air Algérie Strengthens Long-Haul Fleet with Third Airbus A330-900neo

Air Algérie has received its third Airbus A330-900neo, reinforcing the airline's long-haul flight capacity.

Unlike the two previous A330-900neos, introduced as new aircraft at the end of 2025, this latest acquisition was originally intended for RwandAir, before being operated by Air Belgium and subsequently by LOT Polish Airlines.

For Air Algérie, these aircraft will be fundamental in expanding and improving direct connections between Algeria, Europe, and the Middle East.

 

FLEET - Air Algérie to Take Delivery of First Airbus A330-900 (F-WWYD)

The airline plans to expand routes across Africa and Asia, with new destinations including N’Djamena, Addis Ababa, Libreville, Luanda, Rotterdam, and Guangzhou.
More A330-900s will join the fleet before the end of 2025. In 2026, Air Algérie expects additional widebodies and the first ATR 72-600 turboprops for its new subsidiary Domestic Airlines, created to strengthen domestic connections. The Boeing 737 Max-9 deliveries are scheduled to start in 2027.

Photo: AIRBUS

ROUTES / FLEET - AIR ALGERIE PLANS A330-900NEO GUANGZHOU SERVICE IN 4Q25

Air Algerie this week filed service changes to China for Northern winter 2025/26 season, including the airline’s planned service launch to Guangzhou, on board its latest fleet Airbus A330-900neo.

The carrier also plans to increase service Beijing, which the new flight is available for reservations. Guangzhou service is not available for reservations at time this post goes to press.

Algiers – Beijing Capital eff 28OCT25 Increase from 2 to 3 weekly, A330-200
AH3060 ALG0855 – 0340+1PEK 332 2
AH3060 ALG1225 – 0710+1PEK 332 47

AH3061 PEK0540 – 1155ALG 332 3
AH3061 PEK0850 – 1505ALG 332 15

Algiers – Guangzhou eff 27OCT25 3 weekly A330-900neo, new route
AH3180 ALG0915 – 0455+1CAN 339 135
AH3181 CAN0625 – 1330ALG 339 246

 

ORDER - Air Algérie Places Major Order for 16 New ATR 72-600s

Largest Customer in Africa Chooses ATR Again to Foster Regional Connectivity

Algiers, 4 July 2025 – ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, is proud to announce a major order from its long-standing partner Air Algérie for 16 brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft, reaffirming a trusted relationship that spans over two decades. This strategic acquisition also includes an ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator – the first of its kind in Africa – marking a significant milestone in regional aviation training on the continent.

Air Algérie, ATR’s largest customer in Africa, has been operating ATR aircraft since 2003, with previous acquisitions in 2008 and 2014 and currently operates 12 ATR 72-500s and 3 ATR 72-600s. As the airline gradually commits to reducing its carbon footprint, this new order highlights Air Algérie’s continued confidence in ATR’s efficient aircraft and proven technology.

Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled between 2026 and 2028. Equipped with latest generation PW127XT engines, the 72-seats ATR 72-600s will be operated by a newly created regional subsidiary of Air Algérie – Domestic Airlines. It will be focused on enhancing connectivity across the nation, especially in the southern regions of the country – areas where air travel is essential for economic and social growth. This further sets ATR as the leader of regional connections and a powerful asset to bring people, businesses, and communities together.




Hamza Benhamouda, Chief Executive Officer of Air Algérie, commented: “The ATR 72-600 is the right aircraft to help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport. Its performance on short and thin routes makes it an essential part of our strategy while its fuel efficiency also supports our goal of reducing emissions and building more sustainable operations. By investing in this new fleet and the first ATR 72-600 simulator in Africa, we are also reinforcing our commitment to regional connectivity, operational excellence, and the future of regional aviation in Algeria.”

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added: “This order is a powerful endorsement of the ATR 72-600’s capabilities and the value it brings to foster regional connectivity. With its exceptionally low operating costs, fuel efficiency, and ability to perform reliably in diverse and demanding environments like the Algerian climate, the ATR 72-600 is uniquely suited for low-density routes and remote regions. These advantages are precisely why Air Algérie continues to place its trust in ATR after more than 20 years of partnership – our aircraft consistently delivers the performance and adaptability needed to connect communities and support sustainable regional growth.”

In addition to the aircraft, the acquisition of the ATR 72-600 simulator – to be installed in Air Algérie’s existing training centre – will enhance pilot training capabilities and support the airline’s high standards in operational safety and maintenance excellence.

This order – the largest one from an African operator in ATR history – highlights the long-standing partnership between the manufacturer and Air Algérie in shaping the future of aviation on the continent. ATR stands alongside Air Algérie as they launch their new subsidiary – not only as the ideal manufacturer for an efficient and low-emission regional aircraft, but also as a trusted partner supporting this important new chapter in their development.

 

AIRLINE - Air Algérie to take-over

The owner of Tassili Airlines, state-owned oil company Sonatrach Group, has signed an agreement on 19 June 2025 with Air Algérie in which the national airline is set to take ownership of Tassili Airlines. 

The deal is part of the plan to improve Algeria's internal air connectivity.
No timelines have been communicated about when the ownership is transferred and it's also unclear if the Tassili Airlines-brand will continue to exist.
The airline was established in 1998 by Sonatrach to shuttle staff and material for their oil operations across Algeria. 

It later also developed into a domestic and international scheduled airline.
Today, Tassili Airlines' fleet is made up of seven Boeing B737-800s, four DHC-8-200s, and four DHC-8-400s.
Photo by Tassili Airlines. 

FLEET - Air Algerie canceled two A350-1000s from its order book, but ordered three more A330-900s.

 

PARIS AIR SHOW 2023 - Air Algérie Orders Eight Boeing 737 MAX Jets, Commits To Two 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters

Air Algérie Orders Eight Boeing 737 MAX Jets, Commits To Two 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters

- Algerian flag carrier to deploy 737-9 on short- and medium-haul routes

- 737-800 BCF positioned to meet growing air cargo demand

LE BOURGET, France, June 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Air Algérie today confirmed an order for eight fuel-efficient 737-9 jets at the Paris Air Show. The Algerian flag carrier also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for two 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF) to meet increasing cargo demand in the region.

"This order will contribute to the development of the Air Algérie fleet," said Yacine Benslimane, general manager of Air Algérie. "This acquisition is part of Air Algérie's fleet extension strategy through the purchase of new aircraft."

Air Algérie operates a single-aisle fleet of more than 30 737-500, 737-600 and 737-800 jets. Adding the 737-9 allows the airline to carry more passengers, increasing profitability within its network. With added capacity and increased profitability, the 737-9 is designed to serve 193 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range of 3,300 nautical miles.

"The 737-9 is ideally suited for Air Algérie's regional network, providing it with additional capacity and flexibility to operate seamlessly with its existing 737 fleet," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "In addition, the highly reliable and capable 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters will enable Air Algerie to capture growing cargo opportunities, expanding beyond its passenger business."

This 737-9 order was unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

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 20% compared to airplanes it replaces.

Boeing customers have placed more than 1,000 orders and commitments for the company's new commercial airplanes since July 2022. This includes over 750 737 MAX airplanes, reflecting the value of the family's versatility and commonality.

The 737-800BCF carries more payload (up to 23.9 tonnes) and offers more range (2,025 nautical miles) than previous standard-body freighters. Global customers have placed more than 250 orders and commitments for the 737-800 BCF.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

NEW AIRCRAFT - Air Algérie orders five A330-900s and two A350-1000s

Air Algérie, the national airline of Algeria, has signed a firm order for seven widebody aircraft to support its commercial development.

This order will allow Air Algérie to take full advantage of the flexibility of the Airbus product range, strengthen its regional services and offer an ambitious plan for transcontinental destinations. By operating the A330neo alongside the A350-1000, Air Algérie will also benefit from operational savings such as a 25 percent lower fuel burn per seat and greater flexibility resulting from the unique commonality between members of the Airbus aircraft Family.

The A330neo and the A350 also feature the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a high level of comfort, ambience, and design. This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems.

The A330neo and the A350 are the latest generation of Airbus widebody aircraft:

The A330neo Family is powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,334 km non-stop. By the end of April 2023, the A330 Family had 1,775 firm orders from 130 customers worldwide. This makes it the most popular widebody family ever, dominating the short-and medium-haul market.

The A350 Family is the world's most modern and market-leading long-haul aircraft family, powered by Rolls-Royce's new Trent XWB engines, the world's most efficient widebody aircraft to date capable of flying 8,700 nautical miles or 16,100 kilometers non-stop. By the end of April 2023, the A350 Family had received 967 firm orders from 54 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Air Algerie begins opening bids related to the recent tender for the acquisition of 10 aircraft due for delivery between 4Q 2023 and 1H 2024. Agreements for the six A330s, two B737-800s and two B737-9s are expected to be signed soon.

 

AIR ALGERIE / B737-800 WL / 7T-VKN / "VIVA L'ALGERIE"

Alain Charpentier - TLS

Air Algerie Evaluating Order for About 35 Aircraft

Air Algerie has begun planning the next phase of its fleet development, with initial studies finding a requirement for 35 "mostly narrow-body" planes by 2025.

About 15 of the aircraft will be used for net expansion of the fleet, while the other 20 will replace ageing models.

"We are working on a plan of development maybe until 2025," Air Algerie director general Bakhouche Alleche told me during an interview last month. "We think we need another 15 aircraft [for growth] ... [Including] replacement [units] altogether [the number] is 35 aircraft."

Algeria's flag-carrier currently deploys 58 passenger planes: 25 Boeing 737-800s, two 737-700C convertibles, five 737-600s, three 767-300s, 12 ATR 72-500s, three ATR 72-600s and eight A330-200s.

Sixteen of those aircraft were delivered between 2014 and 2016, making them unlikely candidates for retirement. These newer units are the 737-700Cs, the ATR 72-600s, eight of the 737-800s, and three of the A330-200s.
Among the 20 planes due to be withdrawn, Alleche confirmed that eight will be ATR 72-500s. He said the Bombardier CSeries, the ATR 72-600 and unspecified Embraer models will be evaluated as replacements.
All three 767-300s will also be phased out in the near future.

Asked about route development, the director general said that Chad, Cameroon, Gabon and other countries in central Africa are on his radar. The airline also wants to begin flights to New York, but cannot do so until Algeria's Civil Aviation Authority is certified by the US Federal Aviation Administration.

Martin Rivers, Forbes / Photo FPP - Lisboa

AIR ALGERIE - B737-700W - 7T-VKT

BRISNACE - Boeing

Air Algérie commenced flights from Algiers to Budapest on 15 September.

The 1,777-kilometre sector, which will be flown on the airline’s 737-600s according to OAG schedules, will be operated by the carrier twice-weekly (Thursdays and Sundays) facing no direct competition. Jost Lammers, CEO of Budapest Airport, said of the carrier’s arrival: “It’s always a great pleasure to welcome a new airline partner, especially one which adds such an attractive destination to our route network. Air Algérie’s service further enhances our links to North Africa, and the carrier re-joins us during another year which see us continuing to outperform most European markets.” As stated by Lammers, this link further enhances the airport’s ties to North Africa. Budapest is already connected to Cairo and Hurghada in Egypt, while Tunisair links the Hungarian capital to Monastir. For the airline, Budapest becomes its #32 route to Europe from Algiers.

Aenna

AIR ALGERIE / NOUVELAIR - A320-200 - TS-INP

Alain Charpentier - TLS