RwandAir (WB, Kigali) is considering adding new generation narrowbody jets, namely either A321neo(LR) or B737-7, for its European operations during the low season, CEO Yvonne Manzi Makolo told Air Transport World.
The carrier currently operates its only European service, from Kigali via Brussels National to London Gatwick, with an A330-300. Makolo said that while load factors in the high season are satisfactory, during the low season the Airbus widebody may prove to be too big.
RwandAir is looking to add two B737-8s from lessors in 2019, but this type would not have sufficient range to operate the European services.
The Rwandan flag carrier, whose widebody fleet currently includes a single A330-200 besides the A330-300, is also planning to take delivery of its two A330-900s in January and February 2019. These new generation widebodies would then be used on RwandAir's new routes to New York JFK (which is still pending FAA authorisation) and to Guangzhou via Mumbai Int'l.
Makolo also said that RwandAir is looking at launching its own MRO centre, but this would probably only happen after the opening of the new airport in Kigali in 2020.