The Government plans to acquire new-generation ATR aircraft for Ceiba Intercontinental

Nguema Obiang Mangue proposes purchasing four to five aircraft to improve domestic flights and restore routes in the subregion.

The Government of Equatorial Guinea is studying the acquisition of new-generation ATR aircraft to modernize the national airline Ceiba Intercontinental’s fleet and improve air connectivity within the country and across the subregion.

The initiative was discussed at a working meeting held this Wednesday at the People’s Palace in Malabo, chaired by Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, together with Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua, officials from Civil Aviation, Finance and Treasury, and representatives from ATR.

During the meeting, ATR specialists presented several options to strengthen the fleet, including purchasing second-hand aircraft or new units. After evaluating the costs and benefits of each option, the Vice President chose to acquire four to five new ATR 72-600 aircraft, recognized for their efficiency, latest-generation technology, and greater passenger comfort.

Adding these aircraft will strengthen domestic routes, especially to Bata, Mongomeyen, Corisco and Annobón, and gradually restore connections across the subregion.

The Government’s goal is to revitalize Ceiba Intercontinental, improve flight regularity and restore passenger confidence, while reinforcing the airline’s strategic role in national connectivity. At the end of the meeting, Nguema Obiang Mangue announced the creation of a technical commission to negotiate with ATR the mechanisms to finalize the acquisition of the new aircraft, with the aim of signing the agreement before June this year.