NAIROBI, Kenya- In a major milestone for the Kenyan aviation industry, Renegade Air and leading turboprop lessor Abelo have introduced the first-ever ATR-500 aircraft into the country.
The unveiling, which took place at Wilson Airport on Thursday, signals a significant leap forward for both companies as they work to meet growing regional demand for reliable air cargo services.
The ATR-500 aircraft, leased from Abelo and specifically converted for cargo operations, is poised to revolutionize Renegade Air’s fleet.
Renowned for its performance, reliability, and versatility, this aircraft can operate in challenging environments, from unpaved runways to remote airfields—a perfect fit for Kenya’s diverse landscape.
This flexibility makes it an ideal solution for industries such as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and perishables that require swift and efficient cargo transport across both domestic and regional routes.
Renegade Air’s Commercial Manager, Tasneem Kaderbhai, highlighted the significance of the addition: “Our new ATR-500 cargo aircraft will be a game-changer in our fleet, bolstering our ability to provide timely and efficient air cargo services to our customers. This strategic addition underscores our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the market.”
Kenya’s aviation sector has long been a stronghold for turboprop aircraft, with over 80 turboprops currently in service.
The introduction of the ATR-500 further strengthens this position and opens the door for more ATR aircraft—particularly the newer ATR-600 series—to be integrated into Kenya’s fleet.
Both Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) are expected to see increased use of these aircraft on domestic and international routes.
This expansion is part of ATR’s larger strategy for Kenya, according to Michael Chassot, Sales Director EMEA at ATR: “Renegade Air’s selection of the ATR-500 marks both the continuation of a successful partnership with Abelo and ATR’s comeback to Kenya—a market ATR has strong ambitions for.”
Abelo’s Chief Marketing Officer, Mathieu Duquesnoy, praised the partnership, stating: “This collaboration highlights our commitment to providing tailored leasing solutions to airlines seeking to enhance their capabilities.”
“The conversion of this ATR aircraft into a dedicated cargo platform is a testament to its adaptability across different operational requirements and long-term value as an asset,” Duquesnoy added.
The ATR-500’s introduction not only enhances the airline’s operational capabilities but also supports the broader growth of Kenya’s aviation sector, which is increasingly leaning toward more efficient, cost-effective, and adaptable aircraft.
By embracing state-of-the-art aircraft, Kenya is well-positioned to boost its domestic and regional connectivity, offering faster, more efficient transport solutions for its industries.
