TAAG Angola Airlines is expanding its long haul operation following delivery of two additional 777-300ERs and is looking to build up its regional network.

A new strategy being rolled out with the assistance of its new partner Emirates focuses on developing a hub in Luanda and pursuing more sixth freedom transit traffic.

TAAG recently added capacity to Portugal, the only European country in its limited long haul network. TAAG is now preparing to launch new European routes, taking advantage of opportunities made available by its recent removal from the EU blacklist.

However, TAAG faces huge short term challenges as the decline in oil prices has subdued demand in its home market. TAAG remains unprofitable, and it will not be easy to turn the airline around in the current environment.