TAH Airlines: A New Chapter for Honduras’ Aviation History
Transportes Aéreos de Honduras (TAH Airlines) has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), marking the return of a Honduran airline inspired by the legacy of TAN and SAHSA. The carrier plans to begin operations in March 2025 with a focus on underserved international routes
Transportes Aéreos de Honduras (TAH Airlines) has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Honduran Civil Aviation Agency (AHAC). The new airline positions itself as the reincarnation of TAN (Transportes Aéreos Nacionales) and SAHSA (Servicio Aéreo de Honduras), two carriers that ceased operations in the 1990s.
According to an interview published in La Prensa, Donaldo Suazo, a member of the Honduran National Chamber of Tourism (Canaturh), confirmed that TAH Airlines plans to commence operations in March 2025.
As part of its fleet, TAH Airlines incorporated a 35-year-old Boeing 737-400 in November 2024. The aircraft, previously operated by Aeroregional under the registration HC-CXU, recently arrived at Ramón Villeda Morales Airport (SAP) in San Pedro Sula for flight testing and is now registered as HR-TAH.
The airline intends to operate flights from Toncontín Airport in Tegucigalpa and Juan Manuel Gálvez Airport in Roatán. TAH Airlines will prioritize international routes that are underserved by other carriers, including Mexico City, Havana (Cuba), Panama City, and Georgetown (Guyana).
A New Air Bridge Between Cuba and Guyana
Following an open skies agreement signed between Cuba and Honduras after President Xiomara Castro’s inauguration, there is a growing effort to enhance air connectivity in the region. The agreement aims to create an additional air bridge between Cuba and Guyana, facilitating the movement of Cuban citizens for migration and visa-related travel. This niche market is currently served by ConViasa, SkyHigh Dominicana, and Caribbean Airlines through charter and regular flights.
Competing in a Challenging Market
In the domestic market, TAH Airlines will face competition from established operators such as Lanhsa, CM Airlines, and Aerolíneas Sosa. Additionally, the airline will contend with Aviatsa, which operates a veteran Boeing 737-200 for charter flights and routes between Tegucigalpa and Roatán.
Honoring TAN and SAHSA's Legacy
TAH Airlines represents the rebirth of TAN and SAHSA, two pioneering Honduran airlines established in the 1940s. These carriers ceased operations in 1991 and 1994, respectively, due to socio-economic instability, management challenges, and fierce competition. Despite efforts to merge and stabilize operations, both airlines ultimately failed to survive.
TAN operated iconic aircraft such as the Douglas DC-6, DC-7, L-188 Electra, Boeing 737-200, and Boeing 727, while SAHSA utilized the Douglas DC-3, DC-6, Convair CV-340, CV-440, Boeing 737-200, and Boeing 727. Together, they connected Honduras to domestic and international destinations, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, Belize, Texas, and Florida.
With the dawn of the 21st century, Honduras saw the rise of small regional airlines. However, none have matched the impact or legacy left by TAN and SAHSA. As TAH Airlines prepares to launch, the airline aims to rekindle this legacy while addressing modern aviation demands.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión