9 May 2025
The 50-seater jet, registered as BP V5 ABQ, landed at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA) last Friday carrying Botswana’s High Commissioner to Namibia Phemelo Rankoro as its sole passenger on the inaugural delivery flight.
With this latest acquisition, Air Botswana signals a renewed commitment to enhancing passenger experience, operational efficiency, and expanding its regional footprint. The E145 is expected to service short-to-medium-haul routes, aligning with the airline’s business strategy to link Botswana more effectively to neighbouring countries.
Air Botswana CEO, Lulu Rasebotsa said the Embraer E145, often referred to in aviation circles as the ‘Runway Legend’, brings over two decades of proven global performance. She said its compact design and reliable engineering make it ideal for regional routes and airports with shorter runways, key considerations in Botswana’s regional connectivity ambitions.
“This aircraft isn’t only a symbol of growth for our airline but a commitment to serving the people of Botswana and strengthening our presence across the region,” said Rasebotsa.
The Embraer E145 comes equipped with two Rolls Royce turbofan engines, a cruising speed of 833 km/h, and a service ceiling of 37, 000 feet. With a range of 1, 550 nautical miles (2, 778 km), it is well-suited for regional travel. Passenger comfort is also a key highlight, with features including 31-inch (78.74cm) seat pitch and overhead storage for carry-on luggage.
The arrival of the E145 supports Botswana’s broader objectives of improving domestic and regional air travel, promoting tourism, and advancing economic diversification. The addition is seen as a timely response to evolving travel demands and a step forward in ensuring reliable, efficient air services. As Air Botswana continues to revamp its fleet, the Embraer E145 stands as a promising asset in connecting Botswana to new opportunities in the skies.
Source: https://rb.gy/8c7qxl
