Mali orders an additional Airbus C295

Airbus announced on December 2 that the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Mali has ordered a second C295 twin-turboprop tactical transport, which will be delivered in 2021.

Alongside the additional aircraft, the new deal also includes an integrated logistics support package that will provide spare parts for Mali’s two C295s, along with training for flight crews and mechanics. Airbus states that this acquisition comes in response to an urgent requirement from the nation to establish a permanent air transport capability within a short time period. This will enhance the Malian authorities’ ability to support operations and actions for the development of isolated areas in the north of the country.

Malian C295W [Airbus]
Mali has operated a single Airbus C295W since December 2016. This newly ordered second example will supplement this aircraft and further enhance the Malian Republic Air Force's airlift capabilities. Airbus

Berhard Brenner, head of Marketing and Sales at Airbus Defence and Space, said: “This repeat order demonstrates the excellent capabilities and performance of our aircraft. The C295 is becoming the 21st century standard tactical airlifter in Africa with 37 ordered in the region, from Algeria, Egypt and Ghana to Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Mali.”

This additional aircraft will supplement the Malian Republic Air Force’s (MRAF’s) single C295W, serial TZ-11T, which entered operational service in December 2016. Airbus states that Mali’s sole example has so far accumulated 1,770 flight hours, ferried more than 38,000 passengers and transported 900 tonnes of cargo in less than four years.