News Wings

Category: Aviation

  • Report: Travel & Tourism in Africa could boost continent’s economy by US$168BN within a decade

    Report: Travel & Tourism in Africa could boost continent’s economy by US$168BN within a decade

    At its Global Summit in Kigali today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with VFS Global, revealed that the African Travel & Tourism sector could add US$168BN to the continent’s economy and create over 18 million new jobs.

    According to the report, ‘Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Africa’, this potential growth is dependent on three key policies to unlock annualised growth of 6.5%, reaching a contribution of more than US$ 350BN.

    The report includes a policy package focused on improving Africa’s growth based on air infrastructure, visa facilitation and tourism marketing.

    Travel & Tourism is a powerhouse sector in Africa, with a contribution of more than US$ 186BN to the region’s economy in 2019, welcoming 84 million international travellers.

    The sector is also essential for employment, providing livelihoods to 25 million people, equating to 5.6% of all the jobs in the region.

    Speaking at the global tourism body’s Global Summit in Kigali today, Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector has witnessed an extraordinary transformation. In just two decades, it has more than doubled in value, significantly contributing to the continent’s economy.

    “Growth potential for Travel & Tourism in Africa is massive. It has already more than doubled since 2000, and with the right policies could unlock an additional US$168 billion in the next decade.

    “Africa needs simplified visa processes, better air connectivity within the continent, and marketing campaigns to highlight the wealth of destinations in this breathtaking continent.”

    According to Zubin Karkaria, Founder & CEO, VFS Global, “We are excited to partner with WTTC to uncover the extensive opportunities that Travel & Tourism offers in Africa.”

    “Having established our presence in Africa since 2005 we are today the trusted partner of 38 governments who we serve across 55 cities in 35 countries in Africa.  VFS Global recognises the tremendous potential of Africa and remains deeply committed to supporting the continuing development of travel and tourism to and from the continent.

    “This report not only highlights the diverse prospects for economic growth, sustainable tourism, and cross-cultural collaboration but also provides valuable insights for governments to formulate policies and offers businesses a well-defined roadmap for expansion in this thriving market.”

    This report delves into the historical journey of the Travel & Tourism sector in Africa. It’s a story of facing challenges head-on, from the Global Financial Crisis in 2008 to the setbacks caused by disease outbreaks, and political instability.

    Despite all of these challenges, the Travel & Tourism sector is on a path to recovery.

    According to the global body, 2023 is projected to be a year of near-full recovery, only 1.9% shy of 2019 levels, as well as the creation of an additional near 1.8 million jobs.

    Opportunities for Africa

    The report highlights the opportunities for the sector, which include strategic investments improved connectivity, streamlined visa processes, reducing carbon footprint through low-carbon energy adoption, and enhancing water efficiency.

    These could unlock the potential for sustainable growth, job creation, and economic development in the African Travel & Tourism sector.

  • Emirates launches new wildlife amenity kits highlighting endangered species

    Emirates launches new wildlife amenity kits highlighting endangered species

    EmiratesPremium Economy and Economy Class customers on long haul flights globally will be treated to new complimentary amenity kits, now onboard. The amenity kits have been designed in partnership with United for Wildlife, to highlight eight of the most endangered species on the planet. 

    Preserving wildlife and habitats is a core pillar of the Emirates Environmental Sustainability Framework. The new amenity kit range will highlight Emirates’ longstanding partnership with United for Wildlife and commitment to raising awareness about endangered species, and the prevention of illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products. The animals featured on the kit pouches and bookmarks are some of the most trafficked creatures in the world – the green sea turtle, African elephant, blue macaw,  gorilla, hammerhead shark, lion, pangolin, and the black rhino. 

    United for Wildlife has shared some impactful statistics which highlight the magnitude of the issue, such as that globally 100 elephants are poached every day, meaning that at current poaching rates elephants could be extinct in the wild by 2025. There are now only 30,000 rhinos left in the wild compared to the 500,000 that existed at the beginning of the 20th century, meanwhile, pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world. 

    David Fein, Co-Chair of United for Wildlife, said: “The illegal wildlife trade is international organised crime that is driving many iconic species around the world towards extinction at an alarming rate. Airlines and other transport operators have a huge role to play in disrupting the traffickers’ supply chains. Emirates have consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment in tackling this global threat. We are delighted to see the new amenity kits from Emirates now onboard and hope that passengers find them informative and inspiring.” 

    Emirates is actively involved in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking and exploitation and is a member of the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce. Emirates has zero tolerance towards the illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products and its freight arm, Emirates SkyCargo, has implemented a complete ban on hunting trophies of elephants, rhinoceros, lions and tigers. In June 2023, Emirates reinforced its commitment to environmentally responsible practices by achieving IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) Stage One and the IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade module certifications.

     The new Emirates wildlife amenity kit pouches are reusable and made from washable kraft paper with bespoke art of the animals printed in non-toxic soy-based ink. The contents include a selection of durable travel essentials made from materials that reduce the use of virgin plastic. The toothbrush is made from a combination of wheat straw and plastic, and the socks and eyeshades are made from recycled plastic, in this case, rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate). Emirates is also phasing earplugs back into the amenity kits at the end of the year – due to popular requests from customers.
  • Emirates engages experienced captains to fly the airline’s future fleet

    Emirates engages experienced captains to fly the airline’s future fleet

    Emirates is rolling out the red carpet to welcome experienced Airbus captains, as the airline continues to expand its all wide-body fleet while enjoying exceptional demand across the network. The airline is now inviting applications from seasoned commanders to join its Direct Entry Captains programme for its fleet of Airbus A380s.

     Emirates has launched a recruitment drive globally. Interested pilots and their families can join an online info session on 4 October at 1pm Dubai time, attend open days in select destinations, and keep an eye out for exciting opportunities here: https://www.emiratesgroupcareers.com/pilots/

    The Direct Entry Captains programme is for technically skilled captains with a minimum of 3,000 hours of recent command on Airbus fly-by-wire wide-body aircraft such as the A330, A340, A350, and A380. Candidates are required to have a minimum of 7,000 hours of total flying time on multi-crew, multi-engine aircraft, in addition to meeting other eligibility criteria.

    Life at 35,000ft
    Emirates’ pilots find flying the airline’s fleet professionally fulfilling, rewarding, and exciting. New joiners will be embraced into a 4,200 strong flight crew community, including 1,515 A380 pilots, who take pride in flying the airline’s overall fleet of 260 aircraft. The airline’s all wide-body fleet is one of the youngest and most advanced in the world, and includes Emirates’ iconic Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s. Emirates will start receiving its fleet of A350s mid-2024 and 777-9s in 2025.

    The airline’s pilots also relish the excitement and adventure of flying one of the most comprehensive global route networks that spans six continents. They operate everything from regional routes in the Middle East to ultra-long haul destinations and cross-polar flights which make for varied and interesting rosters.

     Lifelong training
    The airline continues to invest soundly in innovative pilot training, with its current facility housing 10 full-flight simulators. Emirates’ robust, evidence-based in-house training programmes are delivered by highly experienced instructors and feature specially designed operating environments. The airline’s latest US$135 million, high-tech pilot training facility is set to open in March 2024. The 63,300sq.ft. facility will increase pilot training capacity by 54% and house 6 more full-flight simulators, including for the A350s and Boeing 777-9s.

     Pilots also have access to a range of non-technical training programmes at the Emirates Aviation College and Emirates Aviation University.

     Life at Emirates and in Dubai
    Emirates’ expat pilot community enjoy living and working in the safe, secure, multicultural city of Dubai with flight deck colleagues from 111 countries and other colleagues from over 160 nationalities. Pilots receive a competitive tax-free salary, spacious accommodation, education allowance, and excellent dental, medical and life cover. They also enjoy chauffeur-driven transport to and from work, laundry services, 42 days of annual leave, confirmed Business Class annual leave flight tickets, concessional cargo, exceptional discounted travel benefits for friends and family, and much more.

    Pilots appreciate the well-defined career paths at Emirates – Captains can go on to become management pilots, recruitment pilots, technical pilots, standards captains, training captains, audit captains, examiners and instructors. They also enjoy long, fruitful careers as around 40% have been with the airline for 10+ years – 1,380 pilots for 10-19 years, 173 for between 20-29 years, and 5 who have completed 30 years. Fun fact: the two longest serving pilots, with over 34 years of service, joined the airline on the same day in 1989.

    In the last five months, the airline has welcomed 172 new pilots on its three recruitment programmes – Direct Entry Captains, Accelerated Command, and First Officers.

    Accelerated Command Programme
    Designed for Airbus Captains who currently command narrow-body aircraft and have a minimum of 1,500 hours of Airbus fly-by-wire experience. They join as A380 First Officers on an enhanced salary package. After a minimum of 700 flying hours and two successful recurrent checks, they’re eligible for an accelerated command upgrade, which they typically achieve in a little over a year. 

    First Officer
    Candidates must have multi-engine, multi-crew aircraft experience, a valid International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), and a minimum of 2,000 hours on 20-tonne maximum take-off weight aircraft.
    Interested pilots, who would like to learn more about the various flight deck roles and register for the info session, can click here.

  • IATA: Lagos and Abuja Airports Most Expensive in the World to Operate

    IATA: Lagos and Abuja Airports Most Expensive in the World to Operate

    …Keyamo to set up committee to look into the multiple charges

    The International Air Transportation Association (IATA) has stated that the Lagos and Abuja airports in Nigeria are the most expensive airports to operate in terms of levies and taxes.

    According to the association’s presentation at the ongoing three-day Aviation Summit in Abuja, the Abuja Airport is the most expensive, followed by the Lagos Airport.

    Mr. Kamil Al Alwadi, vice president of IATA for Africa and the Middle East, stated in his presentation that Nigerian airports charge foreign airlines approximately 27 levies, making them the most expensive in the world.

    Al Alwadi said that most of these charges come from other organizations and have discouraged airlines from traveling to the country.

    “What we need to understand is that a lot of these charges are not from the aviation agencies, but are more in the cargo area. All sorts of people, some are illegally making these charges. So, aviation will start, at least we will consolidate and see where we can streamline and merge those charges and see what can be done. But there are a lot of people and lots of charges have nothing to do with aviation aeronautical charges. It is other organisations that are in the airport that put these charges. But, sometimes as Nigerians, we need to all sit down as a team and see the damage we are doing to our country,” Al Alwadi said.

    He continued, “Like in Lagos, there are so many charges, you want to export your cargo, there are so many charges. By the time you pay those charges, your products are not even competitive anymore. That is why you see a lot of planes bringing in cargo, and they leave empty out of Nigeria, because exports are not viable and lots of these are charged by plethora of these agencies. It is really hurting us.”

    In a recent development, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, has established a committee to look into the multiple charges to see how they can be streamlined.

  • Emirates to scale up London Heathrow flights from October

    Emirates to scale up London Heathrow flights from October

    Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has announced it will operate an additional five-a-week service to London Heathrow starting from 31 October 2023 until 30 March 2024. This temporary service will meet market demand during the busy winter season and offer customers more travel choices.

    Emirates currently serves London Heathrow with six daily A380 flights. The additional flight will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and will be served by Emirates’ wide-body Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, fitted in a three-class configuration split between First, Business and Economy classes.

    Emirates flight EK41 will depart Dubai at 13:20hrs and arrive at London Heathrow at 17:20hrs, local time. The return flight, EK42, will depart London Heathrow at 20:15hrs and arrive in Dubai at 07:15hrs local time, the following day.

    Tickets can be purchased on www.emirates.com, Emirates Sales Offices, via travel agents or through online travel agents.

    Serving the UK with more than 125 weekly flights

    Emirates continues to restore its UK services with the recent resumption of its iconic A380 service to Birmingham and Glasgow, double daily services to Stansted, and enhanced services to Newcastle and London Gatwick.

    The airline currently serves the UK with 126 weekly flights including: six times daily A380 service to London Heathrow; three times daily A380 service to Gatwick; twice daily service to Stansted; three times daily A380 service to Manchester; double daily service to Birmingham (including a daily A380 service); daily service to Newcastle; and a daily A380 service to Glasgow.

    More than 140 destinations across six continents

    Emirates’ extensive network spans over 140 destinations across six continents. The airline offers its customers an unmatched culinary experience in the skies with regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages.

    Customers can sit back and relax with up to 6,500 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system.

    Emirates’ home and hub, Dubai, remains a very popular holiday and stopover destination. Visitors from the UK can take advantage of the Dubai Experience platform that enables customers to easily 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.

  • Emirates marks one of its busiest summers ever

    Emirates marks one of its busiest summers ever

    Emirates, the world’s largest International Airline, marks one of its busiest summers ever, carrying over 14 million passengers with average seat load factors exceeding 80% across its global network between June and August.


    Looking at the coming months, Emirates’ booking trends show unabated demand for international travel across its network. Destination Dubai remained popular amongst travellers, even during the summer months with two million customers traveling to the airline’s hub to enjoy its year-round attractions and events.


    Top inbound markets to Dubai on Emirates during this period included the UK, India, Germany, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, China, Egypt and Kuwait. Over 35% of visitors to Dubai travelling on Emirates were families, staying an average of over two weeks to experience the city’s incredible sites and attractions.


    This winter season, the airline anticipates another spike in demand for travel to Dubai as the city runs a packed calendar of global conferences, world-class sporting events and more. 


    The city has already welcomed more than 8.5 million international visitors in the first six months of 2023, registering more than a million more visitors during the same time last year.


    Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer said: “Travel demand across our network has been strong and resilient despite rising cost-of-living pressures in many markets. It shows the value that people place on travel – whether for work, play, study, or visiting loved ones; and how essential international air connectivity is to communities.”


    He added: “As an early mover in restoring our flying schedules, Emirates worked closely with our industry partners to ensure our readiness to serve customer demand as well as attract visitors through building on the appeal of our home and hub, Dubai. We’re happy to see strong customer preference for our product in all cabin classes, especially in our premium cabins. Emirates will continue to ensure we are delivering the best value for money to our customers, by investing in our products, services, and in operating an efficient global network.”


    From June to August, Emirates operated nearly 50,000 flights to and from 140 cities, carrying over 14 million passengers.


    Thanks to its 157 airline and rail partners, Emirates offers travellers convenient and extended access beyond its own global network, to over 800 cities in 100 countries.


    This summer, Emirates rolled out several initiatives: it launched daily flights to a new destination to its network – Montreal, Canada; made additional flights to serve summer demand to 12 cities: and Introduced a new A380 service to Bali, becoming the first operation of its kind in IndonesiaEmirates also announced new interline and expanded codeshare arrangements with Kenya Airways, Air Canada and Philippine Airlines

  • Feature: The very least we expect from Festus Keyamo

    Feature: The very least we expect from Festus Keyamo

    by Ayo Akinfe

    This is the very least we expect from a man of your pedigree Festus Keyamo during your four year tenure

    [1] If Nigeria was a country that had any shame, we would be eternally embarrassed about the fact that the country does not have a single aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility. MRO’s are an essential requirement to ensure that aircraft are maintained in pre-determined conditions of airworthiness to safely transport passengers and cargo. Airlines go through regular rigorous checks just as cars have to have an MOT every year to prove they are roadworthy

    [2] What this means in practical terms is that whenever any aircraft lands in Nigeria, it leaves immediately to be maintained elsewhere. In plain language – There is no aircraft mechanic workshop in the whole of Nigeria. Globally, the commercial aircraft MRO market is influenced by external factors in the wider air transport industry including global fleet size, aircraft utilisation and increasing and decreasing air traffic volumes for both passengers and cargo. Please sort this out Festus

    [3] In 2015, the global MRO market was worth $135.1bn, representing three quarters of the $180.3bn aircraft production market. Over the 2017–2026 decade, it is expected that the MRO market worldwide should reach over $900bn, with 23% in North America, 22% in Western Europe and 19% in Asia Pacific. Nigeria needs to get in on the act

    [4] In 2018, the commercial aviation industry expended $88bn on MRO, while military aircraft spent $79.6bn, including field maintenance. Across Africa, the only MRO providers are South African Airways Technical (Saat), Ethiopian Airlines Maintenance and Engineering, Kenya Airways Technical, Air Algerie Technics and Tunisair Technics. There are also joint ventures such as Air France Industries’ and Royal Air Maroc’s Aerotechnic Industries

    [5] Given how centrally located Nigeria is in Africa, the fact that Nigerians are the continents most travelled people and being the largest economy, we should be Africa’s aviation workshop, generating at least $20bn a year from MRO

    [6] For me, Lagos, Abuja and Calabar, the gateway to east and central Africa, should all be major MRO and aviation hubs. Our aviation policy should be geared towards making them massive depots where airlines bring their planes from all across Africa

    [7] Nigeria needs a major international airline in which the federal government has a minority stake of say 25%. This airline should be able to compete with the likes of Virgin, BA, Air France, KLM, Emirates, etc

    [8] Given the size of the African aviation market and the field day the Europeans and Americans are having ripping us off, Nigeria has got to spearhead the creating of a continental giant. Just imagine the kind of carrier we would have if Nigeria Air, Egypt Air and Ethiopian Airlines merged their operations

    [9] As a first step in all this, I expect to see Nigeria Air up and running within six months. No funny games Festus, we need an airline with at least a fleet of 20 planes flying to at least 10 African destinations and to at least another 190 global ones

    [10] Domestically, I expect Festus to bring the airports in the 36 state capitals of Nigeria up to international standards. They should all be able to operate international flights. Why should a man have to fly to Lagos or Abuja first before leaving Nigeria

  • NSIB, NAMA, Seal Deal to Promote Air Safety

    NSIB, NAMA, Seal Deal to Promote Air Safety

    The safety of the Nigerian air space has received a boost as the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Nigerian airspace management agency (NAMA) in line with their inter agency collaboration agenda today in Abuja entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreement and renewed partnership to promote air safety.

    The main purpose of the agreement was to consolidate the existing relationship between NSIB and NAMA on the exchange of information, and data sharing during occurrences, among others, that can help in the quality and timeliness of investigation of air mishaps in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation ICAO Annex 13 and 19 of the 1994 Chicago convention on International Civil Aviation.

    Also included in the MoU was the flexibility in all transactions with the mutual agreement of both agencies, upholding the values of cooperation, honesty, mutual respect, openness and professionalism.

    NSIB and NAMA while signing the deal noted that though the MoU is not legally binding, the two agencies however agreed to perform their respective functions in a manner consistent with the values and principles of the agreement.

     The signing of the agreement, which took place at the NSIB Abuja headquarters, had the Bureau Director General, Engr. Akin Olateru signed on behalf of NSIB, while NAMA Managing Director/ CEO, Engr. Odunowo Tayib Mohammed, put pen on paper for his Agency.

    The NSIB recently signed a MoU with Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) on cooperation during emergencies even as the agency has signed similar agreements with various agencies and institutions within and outside the country.

    Said Olateru, “Collaboration remains the centre point of our drive towards enthroning safety in the aviation industry. We remain committed to promoting safety in the aviation industry to the point of attaining and maintaining zero accident.”

    He added: “We, however, cannot do it alone. That is why we have chosen the path of collaboration with agencies and institutions with similar objectives.”

    He commended NAMA management for rising to the occasion by signing the agreement.

  • ICAO Audit: NAMA Conducts Validation Flight of Instrument Flight Procedures, Reviews Compliance

    ICAO Audit: NAMA Conducts Validation Flight of Instrument Flight Procedures, Reviews Compliance

    Ahead of the International Civil Aviation (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) expected to commence by the end of the month, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has conducted validation flights of Instrument Flight Procedures at all the international airports in the country to ensure compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). This is just as the agency has rounded off calibration of navigational aids at major airports in the country and commissioned newly installed ones in Maiduguri and Minna airports.

     The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr Tayib Odunowo who made this revelation in a statement said all required documents like Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP), Operation Manuals, MOUs with other agencies including military and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) have been reviewed and forwarded to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for approval. He also noted that critical manpower has been boosted at major airports across the country.

    Engr Odunowo also expressed satisfaction with the preparedness and compliance level of the agency ahead of the audit.  The NAMA MD who has, alongside his management team, already inspected navigational aids at the Mallam Aminu Kano Airport, Kano, Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, noted with delight the dedication to duty and commitment of staff of the agency towards ensuring that all identified gaps in the safety-critical and operational areas were being closed.

    The NAMA boss also reiterated the need for units and departments to work in synergy and harmony, saying “Only a united NAMA can ensure we attain our set goals and objectives.” The facilities inspected include the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) sites, control towers, mobile control towers, Air Traffic Control 3-D Tower Simulator at Centrex Lagos, as well as administrative offices.

     Other facilities assessed were ongoing projects where Odunowo charged contractors to ensure speedy completion of work. Meanwhile, Engr Odunowo and his management team are billed to also visit Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa and Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu in the next few days, in continuation of the facility assessment tour. 

  • Emirates to scale up London Heathrow flights with additional flights to/from London Heathrow from October

    Emirates to scale up London Heathrow flights with additional flights to/from London Heathrow from October

    Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has announced it will operate an additional five-a-week service to London Heathrow starting from 31 October 2023 until 30 March 2024. This temporary service will meet market demand during the busy winter season and offer customers more travel choices.

    Emirates currently serves London Heathrow with six daily A380 flights. The additional flight will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and will be served by Emirates’ wide-body Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, fitted in a three-class configuration split between First, Business and Economy classes.

    Emirates flight EK41 will depart Dubai at 13:20hrs and arrive at London Heathrow at 17:20hrs, local time. The return flight, EK42, will depart London Heathrow at 20:15hrs and arrive in Dubai at 07:15hrs local time, the following day. Tickets can be purchased on www.emirates.com, Emirates Sales Offices, via travel agents or through online travel agents.

    Emirates continues to restore its UK services with the recent resumption of its iconic A380 service to Birmingham and Glasgow, double daily services to Stansted, and enhanced services to Newcastle and London Gatwick. The airline currently serves the UK with 126 weekly flights including: six times daily A380 service to London Heathrow; three times daily A380 service to Gatwick; twice daily service to Stansted; three times daily A380 service to Manchester; double daily service to Birmingham (including a daily A380 service); daily service to Newcastle; and a daily A380 service to Glasgow.

    Emirates’ extensive network spans over 140 destinations across six continents. The airline offers its customers an unmatched culinary experience in the skies with regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages.

    Customers can sit back and relax with up to 6,500 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with ice, Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system.

    Emirates’ home and hub, Dubai, remains a very popular holiday and stopover destination. Visitors from the UK can take advantage of the Dubai Experience platform that enables customers to easily 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.

  • NSIB frowns at Speculations, Comments trailing Jabiru Aircraft crash in Lagos

    NSIB frowns at Speculations, Comments trailing Jabiru Aircraft crash in Lagos

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has asked stakeholders and professionals in the country’s aviation industry to desist from speculations and making comments on the ill-fated Jabiru J430 aircraft, which occurred at Oba Akran area of Lagos on Tuesday.

    Mr. Tunji Oketunbi, the NSIB, in an interview with aviation journalists in Lagos, insisted that it was unprofessional to make categorical statements and comments on the cause of a serious incident or an accident when the investigators were yet to make their findings public.

    He was particularly peeved by some statements attributed to some of the professionals in the sector on the accident, which involved two pilots.

    He explained that as professionals, they ought to know the rules guiding accident reports and standards and recommended practices stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organisations (ICAO).

    He explained that ICAO Annex 13 outlines the processes leading to the conduct of an accident investigation, stressing that it says that a preliminary report should be released within 30 days of the occurrence and a final report within 12 months of the occurrence following the completion of investigation.

    He assured that NSIB, as usual, would carry out a thorough investigation of the accident and release to the public workable recommendations to prevent recurrence.

    Oketunbi warned that such speculations may ridicule the country’s image in the comity of nations and appealed to commentators on the accident to wait for the outcome of its investigation before going to the public with their personal opinions.

    He said: “People should stop all these insinuations about the immediate or remote cause of the accident. Whosoever owns the aircraft involved in the crash doesn’t matter. This is an aviation industry, and we must not be seen to be commenting from the position of ignorance. Aviation is highly regulated, and we adhere to the standards and recommended practices of ICAO, which is the minimum.

    “Everyone should wait for NSIB to commence its investigation, come out with its preliminary and final reports, which we believe will prevent a recurrence. People should allow us to do our job. We cannot be influenced by emotions or speculations that are currently in the public space. As usual, we will be professional with our investigation and reports.”

    Oketunbi also urged the media to desist from publishing inaccurate reports on the crash.

    Recall that a Jabiru J430 light single-engine aircraft with the registration number: 5N CCQ had crashed at Oba Akran in the afternoon of Tuesday on its way to Ibadan for a test flight.

  • Emirates Premium Economy surges to record 160,000 customers trading up to experience the cabin’s quiet luxury

    Emirates Premium Economy surges to record 160,000 customers trading up to experience the cabin’s quiet luxury

    Customers’ preference for the recently introduced Emirates Premium Economy has surged to a record high, with over 160,000 trading up, thereby setting new industry benchmarks in Premium Economy travel.  Emirates is delightfully celebrating this banner first year of full-service operations with the highly popular cabin class, introduced in August 2022.  With strong demand momentum forecasted in the coming months, Emirates  is providing travellers more opportunities to experience its highly-acclaimed Premium Economy product which is currently available on flights to 11 cities, with the list growing to 13 cities by the end of the year, as more retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins roll into scheduled service.

    Since Emirates debuted its Premium Economy Class, customer response has been overwhelmingly positive with demand exceeding expectations and bookings growing month on month, demonstrating its appeal to a broad range of traveller segments who want to try out its understated luxury and meticulously elevated experience at great value. Nearly half of the customers flying in Emirates Premium Economy are solo travellers venturing off for holidays, while couples and families constitute the other half.  More than 60% of customers who booked to fly in Premium Economy in the last year were also loyal Emirates Skywards members and regular customers of the airline.

    Emirates currently flies its A380s with the latest Premium Economy cabins to London Heathrow, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Christchurch, Singapore, Los Angeles, New York JFK, Houston, San Francisco and Dubai, with flights regularly registering full seat loads in Premium Economy. The airline plans to make Premium Economy available to customers flying to/from Mumbai and Bengaluru from 29 October, and additional cities will be announced soon. Emirates currently operates 20 aircraft fitted with Premium Economy, 14 of which were retrofitted in-house by the Emirates Engineering team in Dubai over the course of the last nine months.

    Since August 2022, the airline has operated close to 4,500 flights with Premium Economy, traversing more than 36 million kilometres around the globe. On those flights, over 192,000 meals from its carefully curated menus which include the finest ingredients were served to customers who enjoyed regionally inspired, generously portioned dishes. Unique touches include indulgent desserts garnished with edible gold leaf, among other signature offerings. Premium Economy menus are updated every month to ensure a diversity of flavours and dishes, especially for well-travelled customers. Over 126,000 pieces of chocolates were served to round off meals for Premium Economy customers. Emirates also served 6,700 kilograms of mixed nuts and 8,650 litres of complimentary fresh lemon and mint juices in Premium Economy. The airline’s robust beverage selection in Premium Economy includes a global exclusive for Emirates customers, Australian sparkling wine, Chandon Vintage Brut 2016, alongside a choice of a unique white and red wine.

    The airline’s philosophy to constantly innovate and redefine service excellence through the introduction of Premium Economy has earned it numerous top placings and accolades in the cabin category at the 2023 Skytrax Awards, Business Traveller awards, Airline Ratings Excellence Awards, and 2022 Business Traveller Middle East awards.

    In May, Emirates launched a global campaign with Academy Award winning actor and philanthropist, Penelope Cruz, which also featured her enjoying the spacious seats in Premium Economy. The airline has also provided a glimpse of its Premium Economy offering through guided tours of the new cabin class to media and influencers, trade partners, airport, tourism and government officials across cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Christchurch, Singapore, New York JFK and San Francisco.

    The Premium Economy roll-out is a core component of the airline’s multi-billion-dollar retrofit programme which will see the interior upgrade on 67 Emirates A380 cabins, as well as 53 Boeing 777 cabins. By the end of the programme, over 4,000 Premium Economy seats will be installed, along with over 700 First Class suites and 5,000 Business Class seats refurbished with the latest interiors.

    Tickets in Premium Economy can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents.

  • Helicopter crashes into building in Lagos

    Helicopter crashes into building in Lagos

    A yet to be identified helicopter has crashed into a building  and burst into flames in Oba Akran, Ikeja. From what we can gather at the moment, the unfortunate incident happened adjacent AP Filling Station, and United Bank For Africa, Oba Akran.

    Two People have been rescued so far from the Crash Site according to the National Emergency Management Agency Lagos Office.

    It was not clear as at press time if the pilots of the chopper survived or if there are other causalities, as rescue operation by first emergency responders is ongoing.

    Men of the Lagos Fire and Rescue Service are being awaited for further emergency operation to salvage the situation.

    Details shortly…

  • Air Canada and Emirates now operate on Dubai Terminal 3

    Air Canada and Emirates now operate on Dubai Terminal 3

    Air Canada and Emirates Airlines have announced a customer service milestone in the two airlines’ strategic partnership with the move of Air Canada’s operations to Dubai International’s (DXB) flagship Terminal 3 as of July 26th. The co-location of operations in one of the world’s premier terminals will significantly improve the connecting experience for customers and underscores the benefits of the partnership between the two airlines launched in November 2022.

    Customers transiting in Dubai between America on Air Canada and the Middle East, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and Africa on Emirates will enjoy a seamless and expedited experience with the convenience of remaining in the same terminal.

    In a statement with Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim said: “We are delighted to welcome Air Canada to Emirates Terminal 3 in Dubai, which marks another step forward in our strategic partnership to deliver even more value to travellers. Co-locating at T3 means Air Canada customers can enjoy a smooth connection experience when transiting in Dubai on Emirates’ global network, and those eligible can enjoy access to Emirates’ signature Business Class Lounges and other hub facilities in Dubai prior to their flight. Working closely with Air Canada, we hope to further enhance travel experiences and offer even more convenient connectivity for travellers.”

    “Air Canada’s new home at Dubai International Terminal 3 is an important milestone which underscores the significance of our strategic partnership with Emirates and the importance of our flights between the UAE and Canada. We extend our sincere appreciation to both Emirates and Dubai Airports for their partnership in facilitating this move, which will greatly benefit our mutual customers,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President Network & Revenue Planning at Air Canada.

    “In addition to Air Canada’s customers benefiting from seamless onward connections to destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent with our codeshare and frequent flyer partner Emirates, they will also enjoy an elevated experience throughout their airport journey.”

    Welcoming Air Canada to Terminal 3, Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports, said, “In addition to a long history of partnership, Dubai Airports and Air Canada share a common goal of consistently delivering exceptional service and exceeding guest satisfaction. This relocation will streamline operations for Air Canada, enable us to optimise our airport’s efficiency and improve the overall travel experience. Terminal 3 is a world-class facility designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern travellers, with biometric touchpoints, spacious and comfortable waiting areas, and a wide variety of dining and shopping outlets.”  

    The first inbound Air Canada flight landed at Terminal 3  on July 26th, with the first outbound flight scheduled to depart from Dubai to Toronto on July 27th. Dedicated Air Canada check-in and bag drop counters for Signature Class will be available in the First & Business Class Dropoff, Premium Economy and Economy will be located in the main entrance. Air Canada Signature Class customers and eligible Aeroplan Elite members (Aeroplan 50K and above) will also have access to the Emirates Business Class lounge located in Terminal 3.

    Since November 2022, the carriers have expanded their codeshare relationship to 42 routes, enhanced their underlying interline agreement, developed a reciprocal loyalty partnership for customers to earn and redeem points, enhanced co-operation between their Cargo businesses and have increased capacity into their respective hubs. Air Canada has also developed a partnership with Emirates’ sister-airline, flydubai.  

    Emirates began its daily Boeing 777 service between Montreal and Dubai in July, which complements its expanded daily Airbus A380 schedule between Toronto and Dubai. Air Canada will be commencing its new non-stop four times weekly flights between Dubai and Vancouver on October 30, 2023 with its flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, which will complement its daily service between Toronto and Dubai.

    Aeroplan and Skywards members are able to collect and redeem points when travelling with Air Canada or Emirates.

  • AfDB teams up with airplane manufacturers Airbus, ATR to boost African commercial aviation

    AfDB teams up with airplane manufacturers Airbus, ATR to boost African commercial aviation

    The African Development Bank has held workshops with aircraft manufacturers, Airbus and ATR to explore ways of strengthening access to finance for African airlines.

    The sessions, held on 14 and 15 June, will support the Bank’s efforts to develop and adapt financing instruments to the continent’s aviation needs, boosting its air transport market.

    The workshops featured discussion of bank financing instruments, including guarantee products, the bank’s approach to credit risk assessments and the outlook for Africa’s aircraft market. The bank is studying the feasibility of setting up an aircraft leasing platform. Operating leases account for more than 45% of operational fleets worldwide.

    Representatives of the bank and the manufacturing firms also discussed sources of financing that included export credit agencies, multilateral development banks, non-payment insured financing and sovereign support.

    Air travel on the continent has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Before its onset, African aviation represented a roughly 3% share of the global market, although the continent has 17% of the world’s population. 

    Owing to a difficult operating environment that includes constrained access to credit, only a few African airlines are profitable. As a result, air transport remains unaffordable for the average African. High operating costs, coupled with low passenger traffic, drive fare hikes as carriers try to increase their profitability. In recent years, airfares for intra-Africa flights are observed to be 2-3 times higher than in other regions of the world.

    Further, in spite of efforts by governments, public institutions and private stakeholders, a large share of air traffic flows through a few airports, particularly those of Cairo, Johannesburg, Casablanca, and Addis Ababa. This leaves many other routes un- and under-served.

    Still, Africa’s economies are expected to rebound to growth from the pandemic. Economic recovery is projected to lead to the delivery of 1,230 wide and single aisle new aircraft and 230 turboprop planes through 2040. A recent study undertaken by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) suggests that implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area will lead to a 28% increase in intra-African freight demand through 2030. That projected growth will require 250 additional aircraft, which will need to be financed.

    A key takeaway from the workshops is that the Bank needs to further assess potential interventions into the aviation markets pending completion of the feasibility study for a leasing platform by the end of 2023.