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Ethiopian Leases Two New ATR 72-600s to Air Congo for February 2026 Service

The deal underpins Ethiopian’s push to build ATR maintenance capacity in Ethiopia for operators across Africa.

Overview

  • The agreement was announced during Dubai Airshow 2025, with ATR confirming the factory-new aircraft and the lessor remaining undisclosed.
  • Both turboprops are slated to enter service in February 2026 on Air Congo’s network.
  • The aircraft will use Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT engines, described as the first of their kind to operate in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Ethiopian holds a 49% stake in Air Congo, supporting plans to expand domestic and regional connectivity with fuel-efficient turboprops.
  • Separately, Ethiopian signed a new order for six additional Airbus A350-900s, indicating continued long-haul fleet growth.