Industry Bombardier sells second-hand Q400 to PassionAir

The turboprop aircraft, which are configured with 78 seats will be used on domestic routes. PassionAir acquired the aircraft through a dry-lease with a third party.

Bombardier sees a growing demand for second-hand regional aircraft in emerging markets like Africa. Several African carriers, like Ethiopian Airlines, ASKY Airlines or South African Express operate Bombardier Dash Q400 aircraft in its regional network.

“Our market penetration in Africa continues to intensify, and we are pleased to welcome Passion Air as the first commercial airline operating a Bombardier regional aircraft in the Republic of Ghana,” said Jean-Paul Boutibou, Vice President, Sales, Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Africa is the youngest and fastest growing region in the world, and regional aircraft like the Q400 will play a key role in helping advancing Africa’s economic growth.”

PassianAir is a Ghanaian owned airline, and aims to become a major service provider in Ghana and West Africa. The carrier plans to commence operations in late 2018 will start with domestic operations and plans to expand its service to the West African sub-region in the medium term.

The airline will have to compete with Ghana’s largest carrier Africa World Airlines. The airline, which commenced operations in 2012 is a joint venture between the Chinese Hainan Airlines (HNA Group) and different investment groups.