Expansion of the Tunisian Cargo Market: Cargo Wings Express Secures Authorization to Operate in the European Union
Tunisian cargo carrier Cargo Wings Express has cleared a major regulatory milestone ahead of the effective launch of its commercial operations. Based at Tunis-Carthage International Airport, the airline has obtained its Third Country Operator (TCO) authorization from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This European green light allows the private carrier to schedule and operate cargo flights to and from the community territory in compliance with current safety standards.
Operational Structuring and Fleet Scaling
Founded in 2023 and granted its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the Tunisian civil aviation authority in June 2026, the company is methodically structuring its operational model.
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Fleet Deployment: Its two Boeing 737-300 Freighter aircraft (registered TS-IWA and TS-IWB), leased from Bulgarian lessor Cargo Air and arriving in Tunis in late 2025, are already operating regular rotations between Tunis and Bratislava in Slovakia.
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Network Expansion: The TCO authorization authorizes Cargo Wings Express to roll out its scheduled and on-demand service offerings to interconnect Tunisia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
Economic Challenges and the Competitive Landscape of North African Cargo
Until now, the Tunisian air freight market has remained predominantly driven by Tunisair — which primarily relies on the bellies of its passenger fleet — and by Express Airline, a private operator running a Boeing 737-800 freighter.
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Supply Chain Optimization: The emergence of a specialized actor certified by the AESA responds to the growing demand from local enterprises for the rapid transport of sensitive or high-value goods.
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Institutional Credibility: Complying with the rigorous requirements of the European regulator strengthens the standing of North African private carriers within highly regulated international corridors.
Forward-Looking Perspectives:
Over the long term, the viability of Cargo Wings Express will depend on its ability to secure long-term contracts in the face of competition from major European and Mediterranean carriers. The risk lies in operational and fuel cost volatility, whereas the primary opportunity resides in capturing surging e-commerce flows and industrial trade between North Africa and the European space.
