Mozambique’s national airline, Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM), is set to increase its flight capacity after receiving two refurbished Embraer E190 aircraft, as the carrier moves ahead with efforts to modernize its fleet and improve regional air connections.

The two aircraft, which were undergoing refurbishment in South Africa, have arrived in Mozambique and are expected to begin commercial operations within about three weeks, pending the completion of regulatory approvals and final operational procedures, LAM said.

The fleet expansion comes as Mozambique works to strengthen its aviation sector and improve domestic and regional connectivity.

LAM has struggled in recent years with limited aircraft availability, affecting flight schedules and passenger services.

LAM said the new aircraft are in good technical condition and that the airline has trained flight crews and the necessary operational support systems in place to ensure a safe return to service.

Fleet renewal plan targets stronger operations

The arrival of the Embraer E190 jets forms part of LAM’s wider recovery programme, which focuses on fleet renewal, improved reliability and rebuilding the airline’s operational capacity.

“The incorporation of these two Embraer aircraft marks an important milestone in the renewal and strengthening of the national carrier’s fleet,” LAM said in a statement, adding that the aircraft would help increase capacity and improve schedule consistency for passengers.

The airline previously acquired four aircraft under its restructuring plan, including two Bombardier Q400 turboprops and two Embraer E190 jets.

The aircraft had been undergoing refurbishment, including repainting as part of LAM’s updated corporate identity.

The move is also linked to broader efforts to improve efficiency and strengthen Mozambique’s position within the regional aviation market, where reliable air connections remain important for trade, tourism and business travel.

State-backed investors support LAM restructuring

LAM’s restructuring has attracted investment from state-linked companies as part of efforts to strengthen its financial position.

Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB) acquired a 25.2% stake in the airline, while Empresa Moçambicana de Seguros (Emose) and Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM) each secured 15.4% stakes.

HCB committed $36 million to the restructuring process and supported the creation of Fly Moz, an entity designed to help secure financing for LAM. Emose and CFM each invested $22 million as part of the airline’s recapitalization efforts.

LAM, founded in 1936, is Mozambique’s flag carrier and operates domestic and regional routes connecting major cities across the country and neighbouring markets.

The airline has been undergoing reforms aimed at improving fleet availability, financial stability and service quality.

The return of the two Embraer E190 aircraft represents another step in LAM’s efforts to rebuild its operations and provide more reliable air travel options for passengers across Mozambique and the wider region.