Emirates and the Republic of Angola, in its capacity as the majority shareholder of TAAG Linhas Aéreas De Angola, announced the signing of a management concession agreement which will see Emirates take a role in the management of TAAG. 

The agreement lays the foundation for both airlines to jointly leverage commercial opportunities in Africa and beyond.

The ten year deal was signed this morning by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Emirates Airline and Augusto da Silva Tomás, minister of transport for the government of Angola.

This initiative is to further Angola’s vision to create a world class Angolan carrier with the support of Emirates. 

As part of the agreement, Emirates will work closely with the Angolan government and TAAG Linhas Aéreas De Angola to formulate and implement a business plan, provide management support and devise fleet and route network strategies, while bringing synergy through the complementary networks.

Emirates will not contribute equity under this agreement but appoint four senior managers to work for TAAG Linhas Aéreas De Angola.

Both airlines will also cooperate across a wide range of areas including bilateral code-sharing on cargo and passenger services, participation of customers in both airlines’ frequent flyer programmes and passenger and cargo handling.

Emirates has also committed to allocate its resources to staff and crew training on best-in-class business and operational processes and systems.

TAAG Linhas Aéreas De Angola will additionally explore business opportunities with dnata, in particular its passenger and cargo handling, flight catering and travel services.

dnata, part of the Emirates Group, is the largest provider of air travel services in the Middle East and employs about 23,000 staff in 38 countries.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “Through this partnership Emirates aims to provide deeper reach and better connectivity for our passengers in Central and South Africa.

“At the same time, we see an opportunity for TAAG Linhas Aéreas De Angola passengers to benefit from Emirates’ global network.

“We see huge potential in Africa, and are keen to continue playing an active role in contributing to its economies.”

Angola is Africa’s second largest oil producer with a strong mining sector, and is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, making it an attractive business destination.

As African economies continue to flourish and develop, Emirates is well placed to contribute to this growth, by providing valuable air links that enable trade and tourism flows.

Emirates operates over 160 flights across the continent each week, connecting African economies and markets with Dubai and beyond to a global network of over 140 major cities.