Chapman Freeborn supports Air Congo’s fleet development with Boeing 787-9 lease

Chapman Freeborn has arranged the lease of a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner between MIAT Mongolian Airlines and Air Congo, supporting the Congolese carrier's fleet development and plans to expand its passenger offering.

The aircraft arrived at N'djili International Airport in Kinshasa on 27 October 2026, where it was welcomed by Jean-Pierre Bemba, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for Transport; Jeanne Madeleine Mpemba Tujibikile, Chairperson of Air Congo; and Mesfin Biru, Director General of Air Congo.

Scheduled to enter service on 31 October, the Boeing 787-9 will provide 292 seats across three cabins: 30 in Business Class, 36 in Premium Economy and 226 in Economy. The aircraft will increase Air Congo's passenger capacity while offering travellers a wider choice of cabin options.

Chapman Freeborn's ACMI and Leasing team worked closely with Air Congo to assess its operational requirements, capacity needs and passenger service objectives. The team identified MIAT Mongolian Airlines as a suitable leasing partner and coordinated discussions between the two carriers, supporting the agreement through negotiations and aircraft delivery.

Daniel Huggins, Director of ACMI and Leasing at Chapman Freeborn, said:

"We are proud to have brought MIAT and Air Congo together for this agreement. Understanding Air Congo's operational requirements and plans for its passenger offering was central to identifying the right aircraft and leasing partner. This has been a collaborative effort across our team and both airlines, and we thank them for their trust throughout the process."

Linas Dovydenas, President – IMEA at Chapman Freeborn, commented:

"For airlines looking to develop their networks or increase capacity, finding the right aircraft is only part of the challenge. The leasing arrangement must also fit their operational needs and commercial plans. Our role is to bring together the right partners and help airlines navigate that process, from identifying suitable capacity through to delivery."

The agreement reflects Chapman Freeborn's approach to ACMI and aircraft leasing, combining market knowledge, airline relationships and coordination across its international network to deliver solutions tailored to individual airline requirements.