Air Algérie has been operating commercial flights for several decades, making it one of the oldest airlines in Africa. Today, the airline serves a plethora of destinations around the globe.
Ready for takeoff? Let’s depart into the world of this North African airline. In no particular order, here are 10 interesting facts about Air Algérie, covering topics such as its history and current operations.
1. Air Algérie was founded in the 1940s
Air Algérie’s origins trace back to 1946 with the formation of Compagnie Générale de Transports Aériens (CGTA).
In 1953, CGTA merged with Compagnie Air Transport (CAT) – a subsidiary of Air France – to establish Compagnie Générale de Transports Aériens Air Algérie.
The airline officially became known as Air Algérie in 1962, after Algeria gained independence from France. The Algerian government took full control of the airline in the 1970s, acquiring the remaining 17% stake held by Air France.
2. The national flag carrier of Algeria
Air Algérie serves as the national flag carrier of Algeria, connecting the country to numerous international destinations from Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers.
3. The airline is headquartered in the Algerian capital
In July 2024, Air Algérie moved into its new headquarters in Algiers. The head office consists of two separate blocks, linked by a corridor, and includes modern workspaces spread over five floors. The new building can accommodate more than 1,000 employees of the airline.
The inauguration occurred on Saturday, July 6, 2024, in the heart of the Bab Ezzouar business district, the location of the new headquarters.
4. Air Algérie has a diverse fleet
According to Air Fleets, Air Algérie has a fleet of 54 active aircraft.
The fleet consists of the Airbus A330-200, Airbus A330-300, ATR 72, Boeing 737-600, Boeing 737-700, and Boeing 737-800.
5. The carrier serves a plethora of destinations
Air Algerie serves a wide range of destinations around the globe, including locations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Some of the cities the airline serves are Beijing, Dubai, Paris, and Montreal.
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6. It has a cargo subsidiary
The airline has several subsidiaries, including Air Algérie Cargo, which is the leading player in Algeria for air freight marketing and cargo handling.
This cargo subsidiary was established in November 2016.
7. Partnerships with other airlines
As of September 2024, Air Algerie has codeshare agreements with TunisAir and Turkish Airlines.
Codeshares are agreements that allow one airline to sell tickets for another airline’s flights using its own flight numbers.
8. Air Algérie’s privatization plans
In recent years, there have been suggestions that Air Algérie is contemplating privatization as part of its broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and financial performance.
The plans reportedly aim to attract private investment to improve services, modernize the airline’s fleet, and expand its market presence. Nevertheless, the airline still placed orders for several aircraft last year.
9. The airline’s safety record
Since its inception, Air Algérie has experienced several fatal incidents, the most recent occurring in July 2014, when a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 leased from Swiftair crashed in Mali.
Consequently, the airline’s safety record has come under scrutiny.
10. Air Algérie has a frequent flyer program
The airline’s loyalty program is called Air Algérie Plus.
Members can earn miles by flying with Air Algérie, which can be redeemed for various rewards.
This article was updated on October 9, 2024.
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