News Wings

Category: Aviation

  • SAHCO wins British Airways’ platinum award for punctuality, safety performance

    SAHCO wins British Airways’ platinum award for punctuality, safety performance

    The Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) has won the British Airways Platinum award for punctuality and Safety performance in the Lagos station.

    SAHCO won this award in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific region after it clinched the bronze, silver and gold awards at every quarter in 2024.

    Speaking on the development, Helen O’Connor, Regional General Manager, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, British Airways praised SAHCO for its commitment to safety.

    “The award is based on meeting or exceeding the adjusted door closure (aDC) target of 96% every month for four consecutive quarters, with no major safety events or repeat audit findings.”, she said.

    While extending warm congratulations on the well-deserved recognition, she noted that SAHCO’s win across an entire year is a remarkable testament to the excellence and reliability of the ground-handling company’s operation.

    It should be remembered that, due to its outstanding performance in the same area, the company’s Abuja station won the bronze award in the last quarter of 2024.

  • NAMA Clarifies Incident Involving United Airlines Flight UAL 613

    NAMA Clarifies Incident Involving United Airlines Flight UAL 613

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has issued a clarification regarding reports surrounding United Airlines flight UAL 613, which experienced an air return on January 24, 2025. The flight, carrying 256 passengers and 11 crew members, departed Lagos en route to Washington Dulles.

    NAMA is addressing misleading reports and commentary from certain “aviation experts” regarding the incident. For clarity, the incident involving a loss of altitude did not occur within Nigerian airspace. UAL 613 departed Lagos following all international aviation standards and protocols.

    Approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes into the flight, while over Côte d’Ivoire airspace, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude. The pilot, exercising their prerogative and based on their assessment of the situation, chose to return to Lagos – the flight’s origin – rather than divert to Bamako or Abidjan.

    Upon receiving contact from the flight, NAMA’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) immediately activated medical emergency services, as requested by the pilot and in accordance with standard operating procedures. Lagos Area Control Centre established contact with the flight 180 nautical miles from Lagos, activating a medical emergency standby and guiding the aircraft to a safe landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

    Upon arrival, emergency protocols were immediately activated by NAMA’s ATC and ground medical teams, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew. A separate United Airlines aircraft flew from Accra to Lagos to transport the passengers onward, following treatment by Nigerian medical personnel. NAMA clarifies that this aircraft was solely for passenger transfer and not a “rescue mission” as has been incorrectly reported.

    NAMA confirms that the airline did not violate any airspace regulations and commends the pilot’s professionalism and sound judgment in prioritizing the safety of all onboard. NAMA is committed to maintaining the highest standards of airspace safety and adhering to international best practices.

    NAMA hopes this clarification will reassure air travellers of the safety of Nigerian airspace and urges analysts to seek accurate information from official sources before commenting on such matters.

  • Emirates delights customers with perfectly paired Moët & Chandon Champagne and Canapés Menu

    Emirates delights customers with perfectly paired Moët & Chandon Champagne and Canapés Menu

    In the heart of Emirates’ busiest lounge in Dubai – the Concourse B Business Class Lounge in Terminal 3, Dubai International Airport, sits a one-of-kind experience – the Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge. Continuing Emirates and Moët Hennessy’s longstanding partnership of 32 years, the latest collaboration features a newly designed champagne and canapés pairing menu, curated over several months by Emirates master chefs and champagne experts from the house of Moët & Chandon. Created and constructed exclusively for Emirates, the elegant Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge features an eye-catching golden wave design adorned with 2,400 intricate gold leaves applied individually by hand. Within the lounge, four of the finest Moët & Chandon champagnes are available, with latest collection launched last month featuring Moët & Chandon Impérial, Rosé Impérial, Nectar Impérial and Grand Vintage 2013. Before boarding a flight, Emirates customers are invited to relax in the lounge, and transform their waiting time into a learning experience and exploration of the pairing of iconic champagne and meticulously crafted cuisine. Customers will be able to sample and explore the pairings, which were crafted based on three principles;

    Minimalist ingredients with maximum impact – Emirates chefs prioritized using high-quality, seasonal ingredients to create a symphony of flavours without overwhelming the palate. This approach allows the natural notes of the champagne to shine through and creates a more balanced dining experience, like the signature foie gras offering which features only three components: brioche, foie gras, and fig. This allows each ingredient to play its part, highlighting the richness of the foie gras with the sweetness of the fig and the buttery base of the brioche. Flavour harmony – Emirates and Moët & Chandon have carefully considered the flavour profiles of both the champagne and the canapés, ensuring they complement each other seamlessly, like incorporating berries or citrus that echo the fruit notes in the champagne, or balancing creamy textures with a touch of acidity.

    Visual appeal – The pairing experts from Emirates and Moët & Chandon believe food should be a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds and took pride in crafting visually stunning canapés that are meticulously arranged and plated, adding to the immersive experience.

    The first Champagne guests are invited to sample is Moët Impérial Brut. With a striking nose of green apple and citrus, followed by mineral freshness and white flowers – this champagne is cellared for 24 months. It offers the blonde nuances of brioche, grains and fresh nuts, and its fine bubbles and subtle palate lends itself perfectly to seafood and pronounced acidity tempered by fat. Emirates has paired Moët Impérial Brut with four individual dishes, which are served throughout the month; Salmon tiradito on calamansi leche de tigre, Grilled Obsiblue shrimps, watermelon and feta salad, Tuna tartare with fresh orange segment, or Scallop tataki.

    The second Champagne featured is Moët Rosé Impérial, cellared for 21 months and offering an intense bouquet of red fruits, rose petals and florals, underscored by a hint of pepper. This cuvée pairs perfectly with colourful summer vegetables and fresh green herbs. Emirates recommends trying Moët Impérial Rosé with four paired dishes, served throughout the month; Beetroot moutabel with akawi cheese and pine seeds, Fennel infused spinach and asparagus dip with grilled asparagus and yuzu pearls, Beetroot tartare with sesame seeds and dill or Bocconcini cheese with basil infused green melon and pine seeds.

     The third recommended Champagne is the memorable Moët Grand Vintage 2013. Grand Vintage 2013 is a unique cuvée, benefitting from 7 years in the cellar and presenting soft autumnal notes, followed by a palate of ripe pear, grapefruit and toasted nuts. To enhance the delicacy of the Champagne, Emirates master chefs have paired Moët Grand Vintage 2013 with four bespoke dishes, served throughout the month; Foie gras on toasted brioche with fresh fig and Maldon salt, Duck rillette with chive mayonnaise, Foie gras on toasted brioche with quince and Maldon salt and Foie gras on toasted brioche with passionfruit, mango and Maldon salt.

    The final Champagne featured in the pairing menu is the unique Moët Nectar Impérial, cellared for 18 months and featuring flavours of pineapple, mango, plum and apricot with a dash of vanilla. Ideally served with a sweet and fruity dessert, Emirates is serving Nectar Impérial with four dessert canapés, served throughout the month; Tropical crème, Mango trifle, Lemon cream pannacotta, and Blueberry cheesecake.

    Access to the Moët & Chandon Champagne Lounge and new pairing menu is complimentary for all Concourse B Business Class Lounge guests in Terminal 3, Dubai International Airport.

  • Aviation Perm Sec Extols NAMA’s Commitment to Safety, Efficiency of Air Travel

    Aviation Perm Sec Extols NAMA’s Commitment to Safety, Efficiency of Air Travel

    The newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana has commended the critical role played by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air navigation in the country describing it as “very strategic and pivotal in the nation’s economic development,” even as he eulogised the staff of the agency for their teamwork,  dedication and commitment towards achieving organisational objectives, saying that their collective performance was exemplary and deserving of emulation.

     He charged staff of the agency to remain committed to teamwork, emphasizing its role in achieving collective goals. “Teamwork is the foundation of success, and your dedication will continue to propel NAMA to greater heights,” he stated.

    Dr Kana who made these remarks during a working tour of the agency’s corporate headquarters in Abuja noted NAMA’s vision to be a leading air navigation service provider in the world aligned  with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo’s strategic goals for the aviation sector, which were also in sync with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to elevate the aviation industry.

    Acknowledging the challenges posed by the fluctuating dollar exchange rate, the Permanent Secretary reiterated government’s commitment to addressing funding challenges in the sector and pledged to collaborate with the Honourable Minister to secure the necessary funding to support the agency’s projects.

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NAMA, Engr Ahmed Umar Farouk expressed gratitude for the Permanent Secretary’s visit, acknowledging the significance of him taking time to tour all the offices at the headquarters of the agency which he described as the “heart of the aviation industry,” emphasizing that safety remains sacrosanct in NAMA’s operations.

    He highlighted some of the challenges facing the organization to include funding for critical navigational infrastructure, stating that some of the agency’s projects were currently 50% completed while efforts were being made to source for more funding.

    Engr Farouk however expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of the Permanent Secretary and the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to ensure the successful completion of these projects. Farouk also revealed plans by the agency to commence work on the building of its corporate headquarters at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with the groundbreaking ceremony for the project to be performed by the Honourable Minister.

  • Emirates SkyCargo adds Copenhagen to its dedicated freighter network

    Emirates SkyCargo adds Copenhagen to its dedicated freighter network

    In response to growing demand out of Denmark, Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, has deployed a dedicated weekly freighter to Copenhagen Airport. The deployment increases the network of destinations served by Emirates freighters to 38.

    Previously served via bellyhold capacity in passenger aircraft, the Boeing 777 freighter will increase capacity offered to Emirates’ customers, with approximately 85 tonnes allocated for cargo from Copenhagen, and neighbouring countries including Norway and Sweden.

    Emirates SkyCargo has recorded significant growth in volume of over 20% from Denmark in the last financial year, driven largely by pharmaceutical shipments. With a thriving life sciences production industry and resilient cold chain infrastructure, Copenhagen serves as Europe’s northern hub for pharma logistics. The increased capacity coupled with Emirates SkyCargo’s fit-for-purpose pharmaceutical product portfolio and extensive global network will support more pharma exports from Denmark.

    In addition to uplifting pharmaceutical cargo, Emirates SkyCargo will provide tailored solutions to transport goods via its multi-vertical product portfolio. From general cargo to temperature-sensitive perishables such as fish and other foods, the airline keeps goods moving from Copenhagen to the world, swiftly, efficiently and reliably.

    Mette Jensen, Cargo Manager for Scandinavia, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Demand has been strong across Scandinavia, with particular growth in Copenhagen, and we expect this to continue into the next financial year and beyond. Bolstering our operations to Copenhagen with a dedicated freighter, ensures that we are able to serve the current demand, and support our customers in reaching a large number of markets across the globe.”

    Emirates SkyCargo serves 11 destinations across Europe with 38 dedicated freighter flights per week, complemented by over 485 passenger flights every week. This near-unrivalled frequency and capacity marks Europe as one of the airline’s busiest destinations.

    Effective from 1 January 2025, EK9746 will arrive in Copenhagen Airport on Wednesdays at 12:35AM, departing for Dubai World Central at 15:05PM. Customers can contact their local Emirates SkyCargo office or visit skycargo.com for more information.

  • Air Peace Refute Report on Plane Crash

    Air Peace Refute Report on Plane Crash

    Air Peace has refuted a malicious publication about a plane crash. This was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, the airline’s corporate communications lead.

    The statement goes thus, “Our attention has been drawn to multiple social media posts circulating false and malicious information that an Air Peace aircraft has crashed in the Western Sahara region, resulting in fatalities, including the purported death of a prominent individual.

    We categorically state that this information is FALSE and MALICIOUS.

    This is a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and tarnish the impeccable safety record of Air Peace.

    It is important to note that the author of this post has a history of disseminating false and alarming information about non-existent tragic incidents.

    The circulating images accompanying these false reports are clearly AI-generated and do not reflect any real incident.

    We urge the public to disregard this malicious disinformation and rely on official channels for accurate information regarding Air Peace operations.

    Air Peace remains committed to the highest safety standards and the well-being of our passengers and crew. Safety is not just a priority but a fundamental precondition for all our activities.

  • Tinubu, Ganduje others vow to tackle unemployment through skill acquisition

    Nigeria’s President and Commander in chief of the armed forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackling youth idleness, unemployment and poverty in Nigeria. The president made this commitment at the 3 Day National Skills Acquisition Conference, organized by ruling All Progressives Congress, APC Think Tank and intellectual resource center, The Progressive Institute, holding at the the Banquet Hall in Abuja

    Declaring the conference open, President Tinubu emphasized his government’s commitment to bridge any gaps hindering the achievement of this goal.

    The conference focused on vocational skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and the challenges of development in Nigeria, highlighting skills development as crucial for propelling the country’s economic standard. Ganduje pledged to support a national policy on skills technology to drive youth development.

    President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described the conference as a “fundamental contribution of our party in governance.”

    The President acknowledged the critical need for synergy, maximizing resources, and harmonizing federal intervention with state efforts.

    He assured that his administration would tackle youth unemployment head-on in the new year, and looked forward to receiving a comprehensive report from the conference.

    The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, expressed optimism that the conference would enhance the capacity of the APC and contribute to the development agenda of the government. Dr. Ganduje said Nigeria must turn its population potential to advantage and that the only way to achieve this is through skills acquisition training for the teeming youths

    He called on the media to support the party’s efforts in diversifying the economy.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, promised to help the Progressive Institute’s initiatives on youth empowerment and development. Jibrin commended the Institute’s pioneering effort and urged other opposition parties to invest in the livelihood of the general population.

    Dr. Lanre Adebayo, the Director General, DG of the institute,, commended Dr. Ganduje’s role in promoting youth skill acquisition and his support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

    Dr. Adebayo vowed that the investment made by the ruling party would soon translate to the yearnings of the Nigerian youths.

    The conference underscored the importance of vocational skill acquisition in Nigeria, aligning with President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment.

    TPI has dedicated a high powered experts to collate the reports of the conference for onward submission to the Federal government through the ruling party.

    The event brought together dignitaries from academia and the All-Progressive Congress from across the country’s six geopolitical zones. This initiative aligns with the federal government’s agenda of renewed hope, focusing on youth skill development, as emphasized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration

  • NAMA Attains ISO 9001: 2015 Certification

    NAMA Attains ISO 9001: 2015 Certification

    The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has approved the elevation of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to its certification category of ISO 9001:2015. The agency attained the certification recently after undergoing a strenuous certification audit by representatives of ISO and coming out successful based on the listed clauses.

    The certification audit took representatives of ISO to the five international airports (Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu), Aeronautical Information Services (AIS), charts, and Aeronautical Publications. Personnel competencies, required working tools, office environment, and documentation were also audited. 

    Speaking at the presentation of the certificate at NAMA headquarters annex in Lagos, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr Ahmed Umar Farouk who was represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo said “As a mandatory requirement of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS), the attainment of the ISO certification is yet another landmark achievement by NAMA in its quest to continue to raise the bar in air navigation service provision.”

    He expressed confidence that the ISO certification would further enhance customer satisfaction as NAMA products and services would be timely and reliable and have a lower error rate. “For us in NAMA, this certification is a renewed assurance to airlines and other stakeholders that we are poised for excellence as we work assiduously towards enhancing the safety and reliability of the Nigerian airspace,” Farouk said.

  • NAMA Debunks Story on Resumption of Helicopter Fee

    NAMA Debunks Story on Resumption of Helicopter Fee

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) hereby dissociates itself from a trending story to the effect that it is planning a reintroduction of the $300 landing fee from helicopter operators in the country. This issue has been put on hold since May 2024 with the intervention of the Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, who, along with the agency, is still making consultations with critical stakeholders on the matter.  The insinuation, therefore, is baseless and unofficial and was never contemplated by the agency.

    NAMA wishes to use this medium and disabuse the minds of operators and airspace users’ minds about the misleading publication. For the avoidance of doubt, the agency, as a law-abiding corporate citizen of this country, cannot embark on such a venture without recourse to extant rules and adequate input and buy-in from the concerned stakeholders.

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), therefore, uses this medium to advise helicopter operators to go about their legitimate duties as the agency continues to work assiduously to ensure the safety of air navigation in the country.

  • NAMA Debunks Story on Resumption of Helicopter Fee

    NAMA Debunks Story on Resumption of Helicopter Fee

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) hereby dissociates itself from a trending story to the effect that it is planning a reintroduction of the $300 landing fee from helicopter operators in the country. This issue has been put on hold since May 2024 with the intervention of the Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, who, along with the agency, is still consulting with critical stakeholders on the matter.  The insinuation, therefore, is baseless and unofficial and was never contemplated by the agency.

    NAMA wishes to use this medium and disabuse the minds of operators and airspace users generally about the said misleading publication. To avoid doubt, the agency, as a law-abiding corporate citizen of this country, cannot embark on such a venture without recourse to extant rules and adequate input and buy-in from the concerned stakeholders.

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), therefore, uses this medium to advise helicopter operators to go about their legitimate duties as the agency continues to work assiduously to ensure the safety of air navigation in the country.

  • Emirates officially unveils its first A350 aircraft

    Emirates officially unveils its first A350 aircraft

    Emirates has officially unveiled the very first Airbus A350-900 to join its fleet at an exclusive event showcase in Dubai.

    The event, led by Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline in the presence of His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, was attended by VIP guests, aerospace partners, government officials and dignitaries, members of the media, as well as aviation enthusiasts. Guests were able to experience the aircraft’s interiors, equipped with its next generation products and latest technologies.

    The Emirates A350 features three spacious cabin classes, accommodating 312 passengers in 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats, 21 Premium Economy seats and 259 generously pitched Economy Class seats. The latest onboard products reflect the airline’s commitment to delivering a premium passenger experience while optimising operational efficiency. The Emirates A350 is the first new aircraft type to join Emirates’ fleet since 2008.

    His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group said: “Today is an exciting milestone for Emirates as we showcase our first A350 and usher in a new era for our fleet and network growth. This aircraft sets the stage for Emirates to spread its wings farther by offering added range, efficiency and flexibility to our network, enabling us to meet customer demand in new markets and unlock new opportunities in the cities that we serve. Onboard, our updated interiors and seating configurations will help us deliver a more elevated and comfortable experience to travellers across every cabin class. The 65 Emirates A350s joining our fleet in the coming years fit into the airline’s broader plans to support our visionary leadership’s Dubai’s D33 Strategy, which will transform the city into a pivotal hub in the global economy by expanding its connectivity and reach.”

    Phillipe Mhun, Executive Vice President Programmes & Services for Airbus said: “We are proud to further expand our strategic partnership with Emirates which has flourished nearly 4 decades ago with the A300, the A330, the A340 and the A380. Marking a new chapter for Airbus, we expect the A350 to become an integral member of the Emirates’ fleet and support its continued growth and sustainability ambitions.”

    Omar Ali Adib, SVP Customer – Middle East and Africa for Rolls-Royce, said: “The collaborative effort between Emirates, Airbus and Rolls-Royce exemplifies what can be achieved when we share a commitment to excellence and build a long-term partnership that makes us all stronger. With our £1bn investment in durability across our Trent engine family, we are committed to continuing to evolve and improve in the years ahead.”

    Apart from its newly delivered A350, Emirates operates two other aircraft types around the world to 140 destinations – the widebody Boeing 777 aircraft and the iconic ‘double decker’ Airbus A380 aircraft. The A350’s introduction will enable Emirates to expand into new destinations globally, including mid-sized airports unsuited for larger aircraft. The Emirates A350 will be delivered in two versions – one for regional routes and one for ultra long-haul routes.

    With extra high ceilings and wider aisles in all classes, the Emirates A350 is sleek yet spacious inside. Customer comfort is a top priority, and the seat configurations offer more space and privacy to every traveller.

    The Emirates A350 takes technology to another level. Customers can now adjust their electric window blinds at the touch of a button. The aerBlade dual blind system will feature in Business and Premium Economy Class offering two shaded options, and the aerBlade single blind systems will make a debut in Economy Class, with all blinds showing the Emirates Ghaf tree motif when closed.

    Business Class on the Emirates A350 will feature 32 luxurious leather ‘S Lounge seats’, inspired by the Mercedes S Class for an exceptional travel experience. The A350 aircraft will feature brand new additions of wireless charging on the side cocktail table in Business Class, and in-seat lighting controls with 5 streams of light. The 1-2-1 seat configuration in the A350 Business Class ensures a very private, exclusive experience.

    Marking a first in aviation history, the Emirates A350 will feature a high performance, new generation antennae which will significantly improve inflight connectivity taking full advantage of ViaSat’s Global Xpress (GX) satellite network. Customers will enjoy uninterrupted global connectivity across all destinations, including over the North Pole for flights going to the Americas. At an investment of more than USD 2 million per aircraft, customers will notice an improved user portal with a faster sign in for new users and a swifter log in for Skywards customers.

    The airline plans to make its first scheduled commercial A350 flight to Edinburgh on 3 January 2025. In the months to follow, customers can look forward to experiencing the Emirates A350 in existing GCC points like Bahrain, Muscat and Kuwait, Lyon and Bologna in Europe, and Colombo, Mumbai and Ahmedabad in West Asia in addition to new travel opportunities that are up to 15 hours from Dubai– to be announced in 2025.

    The Emirates A350 is celebrated as the most fuel-efficient large widebody aircraft, and also offers customers a substantial reduction in noise. Emirates customers can take advantage of the peaceful ambience and elevated comfort in the quietest twin aisle cabin of any aircraft.

  • NAMA Boss Pushes for Productivity and Innovation

    NAMA Boss Pushes for Productivity and Innovation

    The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr Ahmed Umar Farouk, has charged general managers in the agency to ensure that NAMA’s processes and procedures maintain optimal standards to keep pace with those of air navigation service providers (ANSPs) globally. This, Engr Farouk said could be attained through enhanced productivity, efficient service delivery and innovation.

    The NAMA MD who spoke while declaring open the 2024 General Managers’ Retreat which held in Keffi, Nassarawa State said this charge became imperative given that the burden of implementation of the strategic plan of the agency rested squarely on the shoulders of general managers as they “are the trigger point to drive and achieve NAMA’s mission statement.’’

    Represented at the event by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo, Farouk maintained that general managers as the link between staff and management played a crucial function in the policy making process of the agency through invaluable advice and feedback from the workforce, stressing that  that in recognition of this onerous duty, management was “making serious efforts to provide the right enabling work environment as well as incentives to the general managers to ensure their duties are discharged seamlessly and efficiently.” He expressed confidence that “these incentives would further motivate you towards the achievement of the agency’s set goals and further ensure that you are accorded the status befitting of your positions as industry best practice dictates.”

    The NAMA helmsman also enjoined managers to remain resilient in the face of daunting challenges.     “I believe you are capable of matching your strength with the challenges ahead and I believe that rising from this meeting, you will chat a new course for NAMA and aviation industry in general,” Farouk said.

    Earlier in her remarks, the chairperson of NAMA general managers’ forum, Dr Joy Umeh appreciated NAMA management for the “remarkable steps taken to ensure improved working conditions for general managers and the generality of the workforce,” noting that “this move has greatly improved our operations and created a conducive environment for effective coordination and excellence.” Dr Umeh also enjoined her colleagues to “explore the advantages of collaboration, synergy and networking among the departments as this would that foster growth, harmony and development within the system.”

    This year’s retreat with the title: Effective Leadership & Resource Management in the Provision of Air Navigation Services in a Depressed Economy attracted top management staff of the agency and featured presentation of papers by academics and resource persons as well as panel discussions on the way forward for the agency in a challenging economy.

    Signed:

  • Emirates launches special boarding Pass to Dubai till 2025

    Emirates launches special boarding Pass to Dubai till 2025

    Emirates has confirmed the rollout of a special boarding Pass to Dubai and the UAE. Starting from 1st November 2024 to 31st March 2025, My Emirates Pass, enables customers to use their boarding pass to enjoy incredible discounts at restaurants, family days out, tranquil spa treatments, luxury shopping outlets, private pools and much more.

    Emirates customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to unlock incredible offers to some of the world’s most iconic attractions including At The Top Burj Khalifa, IMG Worlds of Adventure and Aquaventure Water Park.

    In addition to over 600 exclusive offers and discounts for retail, leisure, dining, renowned attractions, and luxury spas, passengers this year will also receive complimentary access to the Vision Pavilion and Expo Museum at Expo City for the season.

    This year sees the acclaimed Dubai Shopping Festival proudly celebrate its 30th anniversary, with a host of A-list performers, exclusive experiences and unforgettable entertainment lined up to mark the occasion.

    The festival will run from 6th December 2024 to 12th January 2025 across the city, offering a month packed full of unmissable retail offers. While there,Emirates customers can use their boarding pass to enjoy exclusive offers at restaurants, spas, pools, family attractions and more.

    Whether it’s indulging in world-famous hospitality offerings, unwinding on a sun-soaked beach or immersing yourself in the festive celebrations, Dubai offers a host of iconic experiences and attractions for every traveller.

    Customers can browse, create and book their own customised itineraries including flights, hotel stay, visits to key attractions, and other dining and leisure experiences in Dubai and the UAE, through the Emirates platform.

    Members of the award-winning loyalty program, Emirates Skywards can earn Miles with the worldwide partners like hotels, airlines, car rentals, retail and banking. Members can spend these Miles on reward tickets, upgrades, or even tickets for concerts and sports events.

    Customers can book their holiday to Dubai through Emirates Holidays. All packages include flexible booking options. When you book with Emirates Holidays, you also receive bonus Miles on top of the Miles you would receive for your flight.

    Emirates offers flights to more than 140 destinations around the world, across six continents and currently operates daily flights from Lagos to Dubai.

  • Lekki Port Enhances Economic Growth through Synergy of Free Zones and Blue Economy

    Lekki Port Enhances Economic Growth through Synergy of Free Zones and Blue Economy

    Lekki Port continues to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic advancement by championing the integration of the Lagos Free Zone with the nation’s burgeoning blue economy. This was the key focus at the 17th Nigeria International Maritime Ports and Terminals Conference and Expo (NIMPORT 2024) themed “Charting the Course for the Optimization of Nigeria’s Blue Economy 2,” held at the NIGAV Expo Centre, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, from October 29th to 31st.

    Daniel Odibe, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Lekki Port, who was one of the speakers at the conference, highlighted the pivotal role of Lekki Port in enhancing Nigeria’s blue economy. He discussed how Lekki Port’s strategic location within the Lagos Free Zone and its proximity to other economic hubs facilitates efficient operations through advanced automation and streamlined customs processes, positioning it as a premier gateway for trade in West Africa.

    Daniel remarked, “Lekki Port is at the forefront of fostering economic growth by aligning the benefits of Free Zones with sustainable practices. We leverage our state-of-the-art technology and strong partnerships with agencies like the Nigerian Customs Service to ensure seamless cargo movement and swift customs clearance. This positions Lekki Port as a vital component of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure, directly supporting the objectives outlined at NIMPORT 2024.”

    Underscoring Lekki Port’s role within Nigeria’s Free Zones, Daniel added, “Our proximity to multiple Free Trade Zones provides our users with cost-effective logistics and expedited export of goods. This synergy between Lekki Port and Nigeria’s Free Zones enables businesses reduce transportation costs and improve inventory management, all while facilitating access to both Nigerian and international markets.”

    With its cutting-edge infrastructure, including a Port Single Window and Port Community System under development, Lekki Port embodies the vision shared by NIMPORT 2024 of a highly efficient and connected maritime ecosystem. Daniel encouraged investors to explore the substantial opportunities Lekki Port offers, as it remains integral to advancing Nigeria’s economic growth.

  • SAHCO Wins NeosAir Ground Handling Contract

    SAHCO Wins NeosAir Ground Handling Contract

    Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC, a leading Ground Handling service provider in Nigeria, is proud to announce its new partnership with NeosAir starting from October 30th, 2024 that would be flying from Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos once a week.

    Under this new agreement, SAHCO will be providing full ground handling services for NeosAir which include Ramp handling, Passenger handling, Baggage handling, Cargo handling, Aircraft cleaning, and more. SAHCO’s experienced team and state-of-the-art equipment are fully prepared to meet the unique needs of NeosAir’s operations, ensuring seamless and efficient turnarounds at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria.

    “We are thrilled to partner with NeosAir on this important venture,” said Dr (Barr) Taiwo Afolabi (CON) Chairman, SAHCO. “This patronage reflects the trust and confidence that NeosAir has in our capabilities. We are committed to delivering the highest quality of service to support their operations, ensuring safe, timely, and efficient ground handling for their flights.” 

    He went on to emphasize that SAHCO is ISAGO and RA3 certified which means that SAHCO has the certification to handle all Europe bound cargo and can accept shipments from Europe as well.

    Furthermore, SAHCO has a proven track record of providing top-tier ground handling services to major airlines operating in Nigeria. The company is known for its dedication to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. With the addition of NeosAir to its growing list of clients, SAHCO continues to strengthen its position as a leading ground handling service provider in the region. 

    NeosAir is a private Italian airline whose headquarters is in Somma Lombardo, Lombardy, Italy and is a subsidiary of Alpitour S.p.A. In addition, NeosAir operates from its main operating base at Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy to Africa, Europe, Asia and North America.