Equatorial Guinea is planning to revive its national carrier, Ceiba Intercontinental, by acquiring four to five new ATR 72 – 600 turboprops to expand its regional fleet.
Following talks with ATR (Avions de Transport Régional), a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo, the world leader in regional turboprop aircraft, known for producing highly, efficient, versatile and sustainable aircraft, the government of the African country aims to replace an aging, largely grounded fleet, improve regional connectivity and address high operating loss.
At a meeting on 11 March brought together government officials and representative of European manufacturer ATR to discuss acquisition options, including new aircraft purchases, refurbishment of existing ATR planes, and the return of grounded aircraft to service.
The initiative aims to address a severe lack of active aircraft, as of early 2026, the carrier had only one active aircraft, to recover market share and improve the financial standing of the state - owned airline.
The strategy aims to restore domestic routes to Amobón, Bata, Corisco, and Mongomo, as well as sub - regional services to Benin, Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, and Togo.
The selected aircraft to revive Ceiba Intercontinental is the ATR 72 - 600, a market - leading regional aircraft designed for up to 78 passengers, optimized for short - haul effcienct and operating on challenging runways. This aircraft is renowned for its low fuel burn (up to 40% less CO2) and low operating costs.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines, the ATR 72 - 600 offers strong “hot and high” performances and a maximum cruise speed of 465 km/h.
Ceiba Intercontinental has faced mounting losses in recent years, driven by an ageing fleet, grounded aircraft, governance challenges, and stiff competition from regional carriers including ASKY Airlines, Air Côte d’ Ivoire and ECAir.
The airline’s recovery will hinge on the government’s ability to resolve underlying governance issues, secure financing for fleet modernisation, rebuild confidence among passengers and industry partners, factors that will ultimately determine whether Ceiba Intercontinental can retain a meaningful role in Central Africa’s regional aviation network.
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