Cabo Verde Airlines successfully acquired its second aircraft, a Boeing 737 MAX, as part of its expansion plans

The aircraft was leased from Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC), a subsidiary of Boeing that focuses on aircraft leasing and financing solutions. This arrangement allows Cabo Verde Airlines to efficiently access the modern Boeing 737-8 MAX without incurring the full cost of purchasing a new aircraft all at once.

The addition of the Boeing 737 MAX is a significant milestone for Cabo Verde Airlines as it continues to rebuild and strengthen its operations following a challenging period marked by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Powered by two CFMI LEAP-1B engines, the Boeing 737 MAX offers greater fuel efficiency, improved performance and advanced technology, ensuring a comfortable and modern travel experience for passengers.

However, the history of the D4-CCJ began several years ago. Originally delivered to Comair, British Airways' defunct South African franchise, the aircraft was registered as ZS-ZCA and entered service on 4 March 2019. It has the distinction of being the first Boeing 737-8 MAX operated by Comair .

After operating under the colors of British Airways, the ZS-ZCA was later operated by Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC) with registration N862BC, from 16 February 2022. The aircraft continued to operate with BCC until it was taken to VCV (Airport Southern California Logistics) from February 8, 2023 to July 18, 2023.

Now, this aircraft with a rich history has found a new home with Cabo Verde Airlines. The Boeing 737 MAX, with its new registration D4-CCJ, will play a key role in the airline's expansion strategy and will join its current fleet consisting of one 737-700.

The country, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, has attracted a growing number of visitors, and the airline intends to capitalize on this tourism potential.

With the new aircraft in its fleet, Cabo Verde Airlines plans to resume and expand routes that were previously operated, offering more options for travelers. Destinations such as Paris and Boston are among the potential routes that the airline intends to serve, helping to increase connectivity between Cape Verde and key international destinations.

As previously reported, the government of the Republic of Cape Verde has granted the national airline a new state guarantee of 650 million escudos or 5.8 million dollars. With that money, TACV - Cabo Verde Airlines will be able to lease the Boeing 737 Max.