Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) has warned passengers of possible flight disruptions over an eight-day period after the early removal of engines from some of its Airbus A220 aircraft forced the national carrier to adjust its operations.
In a passenger notice issued on November 7, the airline said flights scheduled between November 7 and 14, 2026, could experience delays, changes in departure times and aircraft substitutions.
The disruptions affect passengers travelling during the period, with the airline cautioning that some travellers may be assigned different aircraft from those originally scheduled for their journeys.
ATCL said the operational changes followed the early removal of engines from some of its Airbus A220 aircraft, although it did not disclose how many planes were affected or explain the specific technical reasons behind the removals.
The carrier said passengers whose flights are affected would be assisted with alternative travel arrangements where necessary. It also urged travellers to confirm their flight status before leaving for the airport.
The announcement highlights the operational challenges facing the airline, which relies on a relatively small fleet to serve domestic and international destinations.
Air Tanzania operates four Airbus A220-300 aircraft, each configured to carry 132 passengers, including 12 business-class and 120 economy-class seats. The aircraft are an important part of its regional and domestic operations.
The airline became the first African operator of the Airbus A220 when it received its first aircraft in December 2018, followed by a second in January 2019.
The latest disruption also brings renewed attention to the maintenance and engine-support challenges that have affected the aircraft type in previous years.
Air Tanzania experienced a major A220 grounding episode in 2022 linked to technical challenges involving Pratt & Whitney engines. The wider global engine maintenance and parts-supply difficulties have affected operators beyond Tanzania.
However, ATCL has not established that the current engine removals are caused by the same technical problems, and the airline has not publicly provided details linking the latest action to the earlier episode.
For passengers, the immediate concern is the possibility of missed connections, longer journeys and changes to travel plans. Travellers with flights between November 7 and 14 should check directly with the airline for updated departure information and alternative arrangements.
The airline's notice covers a defined eight-day period, but it has not announced whether the adjustments will continue beyond November 14.
