Tanzania’s Precision Air expands fleet with two new aircraft to meet rising demand

Dar es Salaam. Precision Air has announced the addition of two aircraft to its fleet to address capacity challenges that had forced the airline to reduce flight frequencies and adjust schedules despite growing passenger demand.

The expansion includes an ATR 72-500 acquired through a wet lease and the return to service of an upgraded ATR 42-600, which comes back after operational enhancements. The reintroduction of the ATR 42-600 marks a major milestone in overcoming the post-Covid capacity constraints faced by the airline.

This strategic fleet boost comes amid record growth in tourist arrivals to Tanzania, where Precision Air serves as a crucial link connecting the country’s top destinations.

The airline currently flies from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar, Seronera to Zanzibar, Arusha to Seronera and Zanzibar, Nairobi to Zanzibar, as well as Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar and Nairobi.

The new ATR 42-600 will also enhance Precision Air’s operations in the Comoros market, providing domestic connections between Grand Comoros’ Hahaya airport and Anjouan.

The Precision Air Group Managing Director and CEO, Mr Patrick Mwanri, said: “These additional aircraft demonstrate our commitment to meeting market demand while maintaining high service standards. The ATR 42-600, being the latest model from ATR, offers enhanced passenger comfort with improved seating and significantly reduced engine noise, elevating the overall travel experience. Its return to service will better position us to meet growing travel demand, particularly on routes unsuitable for our ATR 72 fleet.”

On the leased ATR 72-500, Mr Mwanri added: “This aircraft will immediately boost our capacity during this period of increased demand. It addresses the ongoing fleet shortage caused by global supply chain disruptions and engine part shortages. Recent passenger disruptions—including delays, cancellations, and schedule changes—were largely due to extended aircraft downtimes while sourcing engine parts. We assure our customers that we are working tirelessly with partners to resolve these issues and minimise inconvenience.”

“As an airline that listens to its customers, we remain agile in responding to market trends while staying true to our core mission of providing safe, reliable and comfortable air travel across Tanzania and key East African destinations,” he added.

The new aircraft are scheduled to enter service on 1 August 2025, strategically timed to coincide with the peak tourism season. This investment solidifies Precision Air’s status as Tanzania’s most dependable regional airline and underscores its commitment to supporting the country’s growing tourism