Cynthia Masibo
TAAG Angola Airlines has announced a delay in transferring its international flights to the New Luanda International Airport, Dr. António Agostinho Neto, originally scheduled for September 15, 2025. The revised date for the transition will be shared once all operational conditions have been optimized and coordinated with relevant transport authorities, the airline confirmed in a recent update.
In June 2025, TAAG had informed its stakeholders of a planned move of all international flights from the existing Quatro de Fevereiro Airport to the new facility. This strategic shift is a cornerstone in Angola’s aviation modernization efforts, as the new airport is equipped with advanced infrastructure intended to enhance passenger experience, boost capacity, and position Luanda as a central air hub in the region.
The New Luanda International Airport, named after Angola’s first president Dr. António Agostinho Neto, has been in development for several years with the aim of accommodating increasing air traffic and supporting economic growth through improved international connectivity. The airport features state-of-the-art passenger terminals, upgraded runways, and modern cargo facilities, designed to meet international standards.
Despite the high anticipation for the airport’s full operational launch, TAAG Angola Airlines has now revealed that the transfer cannot proceed as planned on September 15. In a statement sent to partners and stakeholders, the airline explained that ongoing work is required to optimize operational conditions before the move. This includes ensuring that all essential services such as ground handling, customs processing, baggage systems, and security protocols are fully aligned and tested to guarantee smooth operations once international flights shift to the new site.The airline emphasized that such thorough preparation is vital to avoid disruptions and maintain the safety and quality of service expected by travelers and commercial partners. TAAG’s Corporate Communications Office has pledged to keep all parties regularly informed as new arrangements are finalized, underscoring the importance of collaboration with government bodies, airport authorities, and other transport ecosystem stakeholders during this transitional phase.
Industry experts note that moving flight operations to a new airport is a complex and often lengthy process. It requires extensive coordination between airlines, airport management, customs agencies, and ground service providers. Any oversight or rushed transition can lead to flight delays, passenger inconvenience, and operational inefficiencies. TAAG’s cautious approach is therefore seen as a responsible step towards safeguarding the interests of passengers and maintaining the airline’s operational integrity.Passengers planning travel through Luanda are advised to stay alert for updates from TAAG on any changes to their flight arrangements. Although the exact date for the transfer is not yet confirmed, the airline assures that the new date will be communicated as soon as it is definitively set.
The development comes at a time when Angola’s aviation sector is poised for expansion, with growing demand for international travel driven by business, tourism, and regional integration efforts. The eventual completion and operationalization of the New Luanda International Airport are expected to be a major milestone in this trajectory.In summary, TAAG Angola Airlines’ postponement of the international flight transfer to the New Luanda International Airport highlights the challenges of ensuring operational readiness in major infrastructure changes. The airline’s measured approach aims to deliver a smooth, safe, and efficient transition when the time comes. Stakeholders and travelers alike await further communication on the official transfer date as the process unfolds.
