Tanzania Launches First Locally Manufactured Aircraft, Skyleader 600

The first three Skyleader 600 aircraft made in Tanzania have officially started operations. David Grolig, Director of Airplanes Africa Limited (AAL), announced this after the first plane landed at Julius Nyerere International Airport.

AAL, based in Morogoro, got approval from the authorities after meeting international aviation standards. According to Grolig, the Skyleader 600 aircraft are of great quality and are available for purchase.

He said that AAL decided to manufacture ultralight planes in Tanzania due to the country’s welcoming investment environment and local interest in new technology and skills.

The Skyleader 600 carries two people, including the pilot, and is ideal for business travellers on long trips. Working with a team of Tanzanian and Czech experts, Grolig said the company designed the plane for frequent travellers who need quick transport to attend meetings in different regions and return to the city the same day.

According to Grolig, owning an ultralight plane is similar to owning a car in terms of affordability. These planes use petrol, are low-cost to maintain, and are cheaper to operate than traditional aircraft, he said.

Professor Godius Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, praised this achievement, noting that Tanzania is now the only African country producing these planes.

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