Precision Air of Tanzania, has opted for a cautious approach to recovery prioritising fleet revival and operational stability over expansion. After enduring the impact of COVID-19 supply chain disruptions and rising operational costs, the airline is taking strategic steps to rebuild its core operations and fleet revitalisation before pursuing its long-term growth objectives including regional presence, maintenance services and fleet revitalisation.
The airline attempts to avoid financial risk by adopting a careful approach. According to Group Managing Director and CEO Patrick Mwarvi, it plans to resume its fleet expansion as part of its five-year strategy once it ensures stability. Particularly, he stated:
“We are focusing on stabilizing our internal operations before considering any expansion. Rising maintenance costs and other challenges have required us to adapt”
Precision Air operates a fleet of eight ATR turboprops, though only six are currently active due to maintenance delays caused by supply chain issues. The airline expects its grounded aircraft to gradually return to service, allowing it to resume previously suspended routes and introduce new destinations. One of the ATR42-600s will return to service soon and serve the Bukoba route via Mwanza which suspended its activities due to capacity issues. Other domestic destinations including Tanga, Iringa and Songea are planned additions. Furthermore, Precision Air’s domestic network already connects major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro and Mwanza while international routes include Nairobi and Comoros.
The airline is optimistic about the potential for its turboprop fleet, particularly as Tanzania works to enhance its tourism industry and improve infrastructure at regional airstrips, such as those in Iringa and Mtemere. These upgrades open new opportunities to serve tourism hotspots, including the Serengeti and Nyerere National Park. In addition to that, Mwarvi said:
“These improvements open up new opportunities for us. Additionally, with the country joining the East African Community, we see further potential for expansion, such as to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We are currently in talks with two clients to explore extending our operations”
Precision Air expanding Regional Presence and Maintenance Services
Apart from domestic operations, Precision Air is exploring regional growth, including potential connections to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and expanded services with the Comoros. Talks are underway to increase flights in the archipelago and connect Komoros with neighboring regions. In addition to passenger services, Precision Air is expanding its approved maintenance organisation offerings. It already provides maintenance support for local airlines, religious organisationsand international carriers such as KLM.
With plans to enhance Tanzania’s tourism potential and regional expansion will this careful approach ensure Precision Air’s place as a leading airline in East Africa? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Aviation Reporter - Originally from Greece, Elpida is an English language literature graduate, currently pursuing her Master's degree in Linguistics. Her studies have helped her understand the complexities of language and the importance in conveying the desirable message to readers when writing content. Alongside this, Elpida loves travelling so looks forward to bringing her passion and interest to the readers of Travel Radar!
