ASKY Strengthens African Network with Two New Boeing 737 MAX 8 Jets, Fleet Grows to 17 Aircraft
West African carrier ASKY Airlines has expanded its fleet with the delivery of two brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, a move expected to boost regional connectivity, improve operational efficiency and support the airline’s ambitious expansion plans across the continent.
The two aircraft, delivered in July 2026, arrived at the airline’s base in Lomé, Togo, marking another milestone in ASKY’s drive to modernise its fleet and meet growing passenger demand.
The first aircraft, bearing registration ET-BCJ, touched down in Lomé on July 5, while the second, registered ET-BCK, arrived on July 16.
Both aircraft are configured with 160 seats, comprising 16 Business Class and 144 Economy Class seats, offering passengers enhanced comfort while significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
The latest acquisition increases ASKY’s fleet to 17 aircraft, including eight Boeing 737 MAX 8s, making it one of the operators of the modern fuel-efficient aircraft type in the West African region.
Speaking during the official reception for the new aircraft in Lomé, ASKY Chief Executive Officer, Mr Esayas Woldemariam Hailu, described the deliveries as a reflection of the airline’s resilience and its determination to strengthen air transport across Africa.
He said the expansion was made possible through the confidence of the airline’s strategic partners, the commitment of its workforce and the continued support of the Government of Togo, which has consistently backed efforts to transform Lomé into a major aviation and logistics hub for the region.
According to Hailu, the new aircraft will significantly improve schedule reliability, enhance operational flexibility and enable the airline to expand into new markets while providing passengers with a more seamless travel experience.
He noted that the investment forms part of ASKY’s long-term strategy to connect African cities more efficiently and support the continent’s economic integration through reliable air transport services.
The additional aircraft will also allow the airline to increase frequencies on several high-demand routes within its network.
One of the immediate benefits of the fleet expansion is the launch of a new direct service between Lomé and Kano, Nigeria, scheduled to commence on August 5, 2026.
The new route is expected to improve commercial links between Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries, facilitate trade and investment, and provide travellers with more convenient travel options across the region.
Representing the Government of Togo at the ceremony, the Minister of Transport, Landlocked Areas Development and Rural Roads, Mr Comla Kadje, welcomed the expansion, describing it as a significant achievement for both Togo and Africa’s aviation sector.
He said the airline’s steady growth is fully aligned with the vision of the President of the Council of Togo, Mr Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, to establish Lomé as the leading air transport hub in West Africa.
Kadje reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting ASKY’s development, noting that the airline has become an important driver of regional integration by facilitating trade, tourism and the free movement of people across the continent.
He added that the fleet expansion would further strengthen Togo’s position as a strategic gateway for air transport and logistics while contributing to broader economic development across Africa.
With demand for air travel continuing to recover across the continent, industry analysts believe ASKY’s investment in modern Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft places the carrier in a strong position to expand its network, improve operational performance and deliver more environmentally sustainable services.
The latest fleet addition also underscores ASKY’s commitment to maintaining a modern fleet capable of supporting future growth while advancing its mission of connecting Africa through safe, efficient and environmentally responsible air transport.
