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CAMAIR-CO Streamlines Fleet, Maintains CemAir Partnership CAMAIR-CO Streamlines Fleet, Maintains CemAir Partnership

Cameroon’s flag carrier, CAMAIR-CO, has adjusted its fleet strategy, transitioning from a 90-seat CRJ900 to a 50-seat CRJ200. This shift underscores the airline’s ongoing collaboration with South African leasing specialist, CemAir, which continues to supply both aircraft types.

This strategic move comes as CAMAIR-CO navigates a period of fleet renewal and optimization. The airline recently concluded wet-lease agreements for a Boeing 737-700 with Smartwings and an Embraer E195 with Marathon Airlines. These changes reflect CAMAIR-CO’s dynamic approach to capacity management in response to market demands and operational considerations.

Currently, two of CAMAIR-CO’s seven aircraft are actively in service. This operational reality highlights the airline’s ongoing reliance on strategic partnerships and agile fleet adjustments to maintain essential services. The current active fleet comprises a Boeing 737-700, a Bombardier Dash 8-Q400, and the recently introduced CRJ200.

CemAir, a privately held South African airline, plays a crucial role in supporting CAMAIR-CO’s operations. With a diverse fleet of around 31 aircraft, including various CRJ and Dash 8 models, CemAir offers comprehensive ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing services. This expertise has proven invaluable to airlines across Africa, particularly in challenging operational environments.

CemAir’s extensive experience in ACMI leasing and its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance make it a reliable partner for CAMAIR-CO. The company holds an ICAO-based Safety Management System certification and has completed the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), demonstrating its adherence to international standards.

CAMAIR-CO’s decision to downsize from the CRJ900 to the CRJ200 represents a 44% reduction in seat capacity on routes served by these aircraft. This adjustment allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in matching capacity to demand, particularly on regional routes. The continued partnership with CemAir ensures CAMAIR-CO retains access to reliable and well-maintained aircraft.

The airline’s current operational fleet ratio stands at approximately 29%, indicating that a significant portion of its fleet is undergoing maintenance or awaiting redeployment. This dynamic situation underscores the importance of CAMAIR-CO’s strategic partnerships and its ongoing efforts to optimize its fleet for maximum efficiency and service reliability.

As Cameroon’s aviation market continues to rebound, CAMAIR-CO’s strategic adjustments position the airline to navigate the evolving landscape. The collaboration with CemAir provides crucial support while CAMAIR-CO focuses on strengthening its operational capabilities and enhancing its service offerings to meet the growing demands of the African travel market.