Skyleader 600 aircraft begin operations

MOROGORO: AIRPLANE Africa Limited (AAL), a pioneering aviation firm based in Morogoro, has announced a significant milestone with the launch of the Skyleader 600, the first three ultralight aircraft manufactured in the country.

AAL’s focus on local manufacturing not only showcases the country’s engineering talent, but also aims to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities within the region.

AAL Director, Mr David Grolig, made the announcement following the aircraft’s maiden landing at Julius Nyerere International Airport yesterday.

“We have manufactured three Skyleader 600 airplanes in Tanzania and they are now ready for receiving new orders. “These aircraft provide an excellent transport solution for both Tanzania and Africa and we invite potential customers interested in becoming owners,” said Mr Grolig.

AAL received certification from the relevant authorities, allowing them to commence operations.

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He stressed that the Skyleader 600 aircraft are modern, high-quality and meet international standards. He explained that the decision to establish an ultralight aircraft manufacturing facility in Tanzania was influenced by the country’s favourable investment environment and the willingness of its people to embrace new technologies and skills. Designed to carry two passengers, including the pilot, the Skyleader 600 is well-suited for business travellers covering longer distances.

“We conducted extensive research on the needs of business travellers who frequently take long journeys,” Mr Grolig said. “As a result, we developed an aircraft that allows businesspeople to travel efficiently and attend various meetings outside their regions before returning to their cities.” As the first company in the country to manufacture such aircraft for commercial and personal purposes, AAL employs both Tanzanian and Czech staff. They have also created job opportunities for young Tanzanians, with some employees selected for internships in the Czech.

The ultralight aircraft are as affordable as owning a car and are cost-efficient, using petrol with low maintenance expenses. This makes them more economical compared to general aviation airplanes.

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“The project’s success is attributed to the dedicated and collaborative efforts of our Tanzanian and Czech team,” Mr Grolig said.

The Skyleader 600 was recently showcased at the ongoing Tanzania International Manufacturers Expo (TIMEXPO 2024) at the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF).

TIMEXPO 2024, organised by the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) in collaboration with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TANTRADE), has attracted over 300 local and international exhibitors.