LAM returns sole freighter after failing to get it certified

Mozambique Airlines (LAM) recently faced a significant setback in its efforts to expand its cargo operations. The airline had acquired a Boeing 737-300 freighter plane, with plans to launch a new cargo service called LAM Cargo in March 2024.

Certification Challenges

The main obstacle preventing LAM from launching its new cargo service was the refusal of the Civil Aviation Regulatory Authority of Mozambique (IACM) to certify the aircraft. This decision was based on the airline’s inability to provide all the necessary documentation required for certification.

On December 31, 2023, the Boeing 737-300 freighter arrived in Mozambique. LAM was hoping to begin operating the freighter by March 2024, but this was not to be. The IACM refused to certify the plane due to missing documentation. The aircraft underwent modifications by a third-party entity, which Boeing deemed unauthorized, and this third oarty failed to provide doxuments requested by IACM. This resulted in the aircraft sitting idle for over a year. On January 18, 2025, the aircraft left Maputo International Airport, returning to Jakarta.

The financial burden of this failed venture was substantial. It is reported that by the time the B737 freighter arrived in Mozambique, it had cost LAM about $3 million, and the monthly lease rate was about $93 000 per month.

Despite this setback, LAM remains committed to serving the cargo segment in the Mozambican market. The airline intends to continue offering cargo services using the available bellyhold capacity in its existing fleet.