TAAG Chief Executive Nelson de Oliveira confirmed that operations at Luanda’s António Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIAAN) are proceeding smoothly.
“With the opening of AIAAN, we are also launching more regional routes. This will facilitate easier connections to other countries with shorter layover times at our airport,” he stated to journalists.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 57th African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Summit, which runs until Tuesday in Luanda, Oliveira addressed complaints about delays in TAAG flights expressed by passengers.
He emphasized that all operations have shifted to AIAAN, noting that flight cancellations occur whenever passenger safety is at risk.
“Our first priority is the safety of people and equipment. Currently, our cancellation rate at TAAG is 0.3% of flights. We are fully committed. There may be delays, but cancellations occur worldwide, not only in Angola,” he remarked, asserting that the company assumes responsibility for passengers in such cases.
“When a flight is canceled after a passenger has checked in and their baggage is processed, TAAG takes responsibility. We typically provide hotel accommodations and maintain constant communication with affected passengers,” he highlighted.
Enhancing company efficiency and reducing costs is a primary goal, according to Oliveira, who noted ongoing efforts to streamline operations.
He pointed out that reducing cancellations is one way to manage costs, as accommodating passengers in hotels increases expenses. “We are taking all necessary steps, signing several cooperation agreements with reputable companies to improve our operational model,” he explained.
Oliveira also mentioned that during this summit, the Angolan airline will conclude its rotating presidency of AFRAA. Continued objectives for the organization include enhanced training, operational safety, and cooperation among African airlines.
“Our primary objective is to maintain the financial sustainability of African airlines and enhance connectivity within our continent,” he concluded.
The 57th AFRAA summit, themed “Sustainable Skies, Connected Africa,” is organized by TAAG and brings together governmental and business leaders, institutional partners, and aviation sector operators from Africa and worldwide.
