News Wings

Category: Aviation

  • NSIB Signs Agreement with AIB- Saudi Arabia


    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Accident Investigation Bureau of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (AIB-KSA) to enhance aviation safety in both countries.

    According to the Director-General of the NSIB, Engr. Akin Olateru, the MoU, which was signed today by both parties at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, would ensure cooperation and assistance in the field of civil aircraft accident and incident investigation.


    He added that the cooperation agreement would also allow both parties to assist in the areas of investigation training, sharing of information and expertise consistent with the Standard and Recommended Practices of Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention.


    Olateru said: “You have to understand that there is only one aviation in the world and the rule of the game is cooperation. There is no country that is an island. We need to work together as a team to enhance safety. Yes we are both established, we have equipment and human capital but there are a lot of lessons we can learn from each other. It is all about improving safety of the flying public”.


    Speaking, the Director-General, AIB-KSA, Abdulelah O. Felemban, said “We are here in Nigeria to sign an MoU with our counterpart on an Executive Cooperation Programme to promote aviation safety. There are a lot of lessons to be learnt from accident investigation. The benefit for both of us is that we get to learn from each other, exchange information and exchange knowledge with our counterpart”.


    The MoU signing ceremony, which was witnessed by the Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, took place alongside the International Conference on Air Negotiations (ICAN) 2022 hosted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).


    The NSIB, under its previous name, Accident Investigation Bureau Nigeria (AIB-N), had signed international agreements with France BEA, Sao-Tome and Principe, Sierra-Leone and Benin Republic.


    The Bureau also signed local agreements with the Nigerian Air force, the University of Lagos, the University of Ilorin amongst others and is currently seeking agreements with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Police , Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC) and the Nigerian Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).


    AIB-N is in the process of transitioning to the NSIB, a unified investigation agency charged with the responsibility of investigating accident and serious incident occurrences in air, rail, marine and other modes of transportation.

  • AIB-N Transits to NSIB

    AIB-N Transits to NSIB

    The Accident Investigation Bureau Nigeria (AIB-N) has commenced the process for the transition into a multimodal accident investigation body with the setting up an in-house committee for the implementation of the new act on the establishment of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

    The Commissioner of the Bureau, Engr. Akin Olateru, who made this known through Mr. Tunji Oketunbi, General Manager, Public Affairs, disclosed that the committee was set up following the assent of the new NSIB Act 2022 by President Muhammadu Buhari and the Supreme Court Gazette, which was released on November 28, 2022.

    “With this, the nomenclature of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in AIB-N has changed from Commissioner to Director-General, NSIB,” stated the statement signed by Oketunbi.

    The newly established NSIB is now responsible for the investigation of air, marine, rail and other modes of transportation serious incidents and accidents in Nigeria and anywhere the country’s interest is affected.

    Said Olateru: “The new Act will further enhance safety in all modes of transportation in the country as serious incidents and accidents would be investigated and recurrence prevented”.

    Olateru who lauded the Federal Government for establishing the multimodal agency said Nigeria would be moving with global trend in ensuring safety in all transportation modes.

    He praised the National Assembly for passing the bill and the President for assenting to it.

    Olateru commended the doggedness and leadership qualities of the Hon. Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and the Federal Ministry of Aviation for championing the creation of the NSIB, which he said would open a new chapter in transportation safety in Nigeria.

    While inaugurating the committee for the implementation of the new act that establishes the NSIB, Olateru commended the staff and management of AIB-N for their support and sacrifices to ensure that the bill saw the light of day.

    Said Olateru: “We did it together in the interest of the country. I salute your commitment, sacrifices and determination without which we would not have achieved this”.

    The expansion of AIB-N scope of operations into a multimodal agency was one of the cardinal programmes of Engr. Akin Olateru when he assumed office in 2017.

    With this in mind, the Bureau, under his leadership had vigorously canvassed for the establishment of the NSIB that would enable the Bureau to extend its mandate to cover not only the investigation of air mishaps but also that of other modes of transportation in accordance with global standard practices.

    The Commissioner, in 2020, at the public hearings of the Senate Committee on Aviation and the House Committee on Aviation for the passage of the NSIB bill, assured that, the NSIB would enable the Bureau to improve the safety standard of the country’s transportation network through quality investigation of the accident and serious incident occurrences, timely publication of the reports and safety recommendations.

    AIB-N, whose mandate was to investigate air mishaps in the country, with its rigorous investigations and timely release of reports and safety recommendations, has greatly enhanced safety within the industry.

    The Bureau, from inception, has released 71 reports and 252 safety recommendations, out of which 58 reports and 194 safety recommendations were released by Olateru’s administration.

    The current administration at AIB-N also released four safety Bulletins since its assumption of office in 2017.

    This feat is very much appreciated in air travel as only one fatal occurrence has been recorded in the last seven years.

    This safety standard achieved in the aviation industry would now be replicated in other modes of transportation in the country through the NSIB.

    The purpose of accident investigation is not to apportion blame or liability but to prevent the future recurrence of similar incidents.

  • Innovating Our Way Out of the Climate Crisis – the Middle East and Africa Has a Key Role to Play

    Innovating Our Way Out of the Climate Crisis – the Middle East and Africa Has a Key Role to Play

    It’s eye-opening to consider that more than half of the world’s best solar resources are in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). When you combine this vast untapped potential with a rapidly evolving renewable energy landscape, formidable people power from a growing youth population and thriving entrepreneurial scene, it’s clear that MEA has an increasingly important role to play in innovating towards a way out of the climate crisis.

    There is a rousing incentive to act with urgency. Though MEA may have the lowest contribution to greenhouse gas emissions in the world, it’s the most vulnerable region to the effects of climate change, especially Africa. Home to many of the planet’s key suppliers of fossil fuels, the region is also pivotal in enabling the shift towards new sources of energy. Already, there is a huge focus from governments to invest in sustainability, and investment in clean energy from the UAE alone totals $40 billion.

    But much work is still be done at a far greater scale and that work is dependent on three things: people, money and digital technology and data.

    It’s the cost-efficient and highly scalable nature of the cloud, for example, that enables energy startup, M-KOPA Solar, to manage the energy systems of half a million homes in East Africa, bringing affordable clean energy to around 2 million people.

    Technology is paramount, not only to the shift towards renewable energy, but to all aspects of climate adaptation. ”The climate crisis is taking a significant toll on the Middle East and Africa. But we live in a new technological era with the potential to power dramatic transformation across every sector of society. Digital solutions offer a way to progress towards a greener and ultimately more prosperous future. Together, we find ourselves at a historic intersection of tremendous opportunity,” says Sherif Tawfik, Chief Sustainability Officer, Microsoft Middle East and Africa.  

    The exponential rate of technology adoption in the region will help drive this opportunity. Almost half of business leaders say more than 50 percent of their assets are in the cloud, meaning powerful foundations are already in place to create solutions to MEA’s greatest climate change challenges.

    The agriculture industry, for example, sustains 70 percent (http://bit.ly/3AWiolE) of livelihood in Africa but also accounts for almost 90 percent (http://bit.ly/3EPkhls) of all freshwater withdrawals. To conserve water while still preserving crop yields, farmers need to know exactly where and when to water fields and how much water they should use. Innovative tech solutions are needed to provide smallholder farms – particularly those in rural areas – with accurate data.

    The Kenyan National Agriculture Platform is working with Microsoft to drive digitalization of agriculture through an app called AgBot (http://bit.ly/3GWXDdk). The AgBot is a one-stop shop for half a million farmers where they can access services and information to increase their productivity. Further work is now being done on the app to incorporate data analysis for more informed decision-making.

    Further north in the UAE, multinational corporations like Etihad Airways (http://bit.ly/3ONn2Ii) are using advanced analytics and AI to measure and benchmark their environmental footprints. The ability of businesses to measure their carbon emissions is essential to carbon reduction, but accuracy is extremely challenging because of large volumes of data that typically sits in silos. But the cloud helps by digitalizing processes to break down data silos and centralize data for better reporting, ultimately enabling companies like Etihad to implement carbon efficiency savings across their operations. The use of technology to help businesses report, record and reduce their environmental impact is essential as it’s big business that will ultimately tip the scales towards a net-zero future.

    Implementing innovation at a greater scale

    It’s clear enterprising organizations in MEA are already using technology for climate adaptation in exciting and impactful ways. But greater collaboration is needed to replicate these kinds of successes at scale. COP27 provides an opportunity for world leaders to come together and make it happen.

    “With Egypt as host of this year’s conference, the Egyptian government has been given a unique platform to voice the climate adaptation needs of countries in Africa and the broader region,” comments Mirna Arif, Microsoft Egypt General Manager. “As a country and as a continent, it’s time be ambitious in our vision, not only of how we want to progress on our own sustainability journey, but also how we will contribute to the global fight against climate change.”

    During the summit, we can expect to see bold initiatives and announcements from both the public and private sector as we strive to move beyond pledges to progress. For our own part, Microsoft will focus on both the technology and skills needed to drive broad-scale impact. This includes general access to quality local data, strategic collaborations with the public sector around the deployment of key sustainability solutions and the development of critical skillsets needed to promote a green economy. At the beginning of November, we published our Sustainability Skills Gap report (http://bit.ly/3XIKTgv) highlighting the necessary skills needed to move beyond pledges to progress. It is now more important than ever that sustainability is considered at every level of our society and economy, and in order to do this, we will need the workforce to have the right skills.

    These efforts will build on the work Microsoft has been doing for more than 30 years, empowering customers, partners, and governments across MEA to build digital capabilities. Tools and innovations like our data centres are empowering people and transforming the way organizations and industries operate. Now, we’re doubling down on our commitment to provide the technology needed for a more sustainable future.

    “Given our role as an enabler of a diverse range of digital solutions, Microsoft has a unique responsibility to help governments and organizations to achieve their climate goals through the power of technology. We are committed to accelerating digital transformation in Africa, with a view to helping the continent realize its growing innovation potential in the climate technology space and beyond,” says Wael Elkabbany, General Manager, Microsoft Africa Regional Cluster.

    As it stands, the Middle East and Africa can be likened to a sleeping giants with powerful potential to lead the world’s energy transition and build a greener future. Beyond the clear opportunity in renewable energy, there is much to be gained from the region’s track record of invention. From water scarcity to food insecurity and lack of access to electricity, MEA’s problem-solving capabilities have long been put to the test. COP27 is an opportunity to share learnings with the rest of the world. The challenge ahead is daunting but, together, we can move faster.

  • Emirates and flyDubai deliver five unrivalled travel options to customers, five years on!

    Emirates and flyDubai deliver five unrivalled travel options to customers, five years on!

    Emirates and flydubai are jointly celebrating five years of their extensive partnership, which began in 2017 by disclosing five highlights on how they have been able to achieve the feat of delivering historic benefits for travelers. In the span of five years, both airlines have successfully delivered their promise of offering customers unrivalled travel options to every corner of the globe. Most significant is the fact that the carriers’ joint route network has significantly expanded, enabling more than 11 million customers to connect on over 250,000 flights and benefit from seamless travel.

     The innovative partnership goes beyond the standard code-sharing model and today includes integrated network collaboration, schedule optimization, seamless connectivity at Dubai International airport (DXB) between Terminals 2 and 3, baggage transfers on a single itinerary, as well as reciprocal loyalty benefits under the joint loyalty programme, Emirates Skywards.

    In the span of these five years, the Emirates and flydubai’s partnership boasts of five key highlights with benefits to customers as follows:   

    ·         A joint network that offers unrivalled choice:  This network avails customers access to 215 destinations across 98 countries, with over 250 codeshare flights to choose from on an average day. Emirates customers can book flights to over 80 unique flydubai destinations and flydubai customers can choose from over 99 Emirates destinations. Popular customer favourites, whether travelling for business or leisure include: Kathmandu, Kuwait, the Maldives, Tel Aviv, and Zanzibar.

    ·         Joint loyalty programme maximizing customer rewards: Reportedly more than 8.5 million members have been able to enjoy joint Emirates and flydubai frequent flyer programme benefits, earning 150 billion Skywards Miles in the last five years through the partnership.

    ·         Seamless connectivity at DXB: The partnership offers customers seamless check-in, efficient baggage transfers, passenger access to Emirates’ lounges at Terminal 3 and the flydubai lounge at Terminal 2, reduced connection times as both airlines expand their flight schedules, and convenient connections to 33 flydubai destinations operated from Emirates Terminal 3 in DXB.

    ·         Continued network growth: Every month, new travel opportunities are being created for the 270,000 passengers who connect between both airlines as Emirates and flydubai continue to add more flights to their schedules. This offers customers more flexibility with multiple daily flight departures to destinations like Bahrain, Kuwait, Karachi, the Maldives, key cities in Saudi Arabia and Tel Aviv. Both airlines also continue to expand their networks, with Emirates recently reinstating flights to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. In 2022, flydubai’s network has grown bigger than ever, launching flights to Al Ula, Namangan, Osh, Pisa and Samarkand, to name a few. flydubai has also announced services to Gan in the Maldives, Cagliari and Milan-Bergamo in Italy, Corfu in Greece and Krabi and Pattaya in Thailand from 2023 as well as the resumption of flights to Abha, Ha’il, Hofuf and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.

    ·         Continued investment in enhancing the customer experience: Emirates has said it will retrofit 120 aircraft with Premium Economy seats starting this month as part of a $2 billion investment which also includes elevated dining options and more sustainable choices. Flydubai, on the other hand, has debuted a new Business Class recliner seat offering customers more comfort on its short and medium-haul flights. In addition, flydubai has grown its fleet to 70 Boeing 737 aircraft and will retrofit a number of its existing aircraft, as well as equip its future aircraft, with its new Business Class seats.

    The Emirates story started in 1985 when it launched operations with just two aircraft. Today, the Airline flies the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering its customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies. Emirates has continued to inspire travelers worldwide with its growing network of worldwide destinations, industry leading inflight entertainment, regionally inspired cuisine, and world-class service.

  • Ibom Air welcomes 2 Airbus A-320-200 Aircraft

    Ibom Air welcomes 2 Airbus A-320-200 Aircraft

    Ibom Airlines Limited (IBOM AIR) has welcomed two Airbus A320-200 aircraft as additions to her fleet. The aircraft, which arrived over the weekend, were procured from GetJet Airlines UAB (operating as GETJET), an European aircraft leasing company, on a one year wet-lease agreement.

    According to the Chief Operating Officer, Mr George Uriesi, “The wet-lease agreement is a stop-gap measure undertaken to meet current demands and accommodate growth, while awaiting the deliveries of our ten brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, an order that was firmed up in November 2021 at the Dubai Airshow. With this new capacity coming on board, we are delighted to inform our passengers that we have increased our offerings, providing more frequencies for their convenience. The Uyo-Lagos and Uyo-Abuja route now have three frequencies every weekday, while our passengers between Lagos and Abuja will have seven frequencies to choose from both ways, every weekday”.

    These new flight schedules will commence effective from the 23rd of November, in time to meet the demand of the holiday season. Passengers will be able to access these services on the Ibom Air website at www.ibomair.com, and all our sales channels.

    The deliveries of Ibom Air’s ten brand-new A220-300s are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2023.

  • AIB-N Stresses Commitment to Improved Air Safety

    AIB-N Stresses Commitment to Improved Air Safety

    Accident Investigation Bureau Nigeria (AIB-N) has assured of its resolve to double efforts towards enhancing aviation safety in Africa and beyond through quality investigations of air mishaps.

    This was disclosed today by the Commissioner of the Bureau, Engr. Akin Olateru at the conclusion of the week-long workshops organised by the Bureau and Bangul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) in partnership with the African Union(AU) and European Union (EU) under the Aviation Safety for Africa (EU-ASA).

    Olateru who was duly represented by the Director of Engineering, Engr. Muhammad Wali, stated that AIB would continue to work in partnership with relevant agencies and stakeholders in the aviation industry for a secure airspace in the African sub-region and beyond.

    “AIB, in partnership with industry stakeholders, will always play a critical role in promoting aviation safety through quality investigations and timely publication of reports,” he said.

    He added that the Bureau’s resolve to continue to align to the current trends of enhancing aviation safety through improved technology, training and retraining of the personnel, contributes meaningfully to the achievement of the Bureau’s mandate.

    Speaking, the BAGAIA Commissioner, Engr. Charles Irikefe Erhueh appreciated the AIB management, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and AU for their support and cooperation towards the successful completion of the workshops, which was organised as part of efforts to drive safety measures and quick response during air mishaps in Nigeria and other African countries.

    Erhueh also called on the participants of the workshops to ensure that they put all the knowledge and skills acquired at the training into practice at their various organisations.

    The week-long workshop was titled the Role of Accident and Incident Investigation in the State Safety programmes (SSP), and Flight Recorder- Recorder and Beyond.

     Participants at the workshops were drawn from AIB, NCAA, the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), the  BAGAIA, amongst others.

  • NAMA to Train Airspace Managers on Global Air Navigation Plan

    NAMA to Train Airspace Managers on Global Air Navigation Plan

    The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has concluded arrangements to train Airspace Managers across all airports in Nigeria on Global Air Navigation Plan. This, according to the agency is targeted at equipping them with global trends in strategic air traffic management and also building their capacity for seamless airspace operations in their various domains.

    Making this revelation at the weekend in Port Harcourt during this year’s Airspace Managers’ Forum, the Acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA),

    Matthew Lawrence Pwajok said it had become imperative that Airspace Managers at the nation’s airports are kept abreast of global trends in airspace management “as aviation is global, there is no Nigerian aviation standard. We are not operating in isolation and so we are maintaining international standards. We are benchmarking and implementing the International Civil Aviation (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), he said.”

    Pwajok noted that the training would expose managers to Global Air Navigation Plan, Regional Air Navigation Plan and National Air Navigation Plan just as it would keep them acquainted with the Civil Aviation Policy which is the framework that guides operations nationally. According to him, “you must also be kept abreast of the Aviation Roadmap or Masterplan of the Federal Government; our Communication, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) Masterplan and the milestones towards attaining these masterplans because these are frameworks within which we are expected to operate in carrying out our statutory function as the nation’s airspace manager.”

    The NAMA boss said Airspace Managers needed to be top-notch in understanding the national air navigation plan as it relates to the implementation strategies, milestones, timelines, technology roadmaps for achieving the national plan and the strategic position of NAMA in the entire plan, even as he solicited for their buy-in to ensure successful implementation.

    Pwajok said with the increased pressure on the aviation industry at the global, regional and national level following the growth in passenger and cargo, there was the need for the agency to grow capacity to be able to cope with the increasing traffic, adding that insecurity, expansion in the economy and the upsurge in political activities in Nigeria have also accounted for increased demand for air travel, hence the need for strategic air traffic management that would ensure seamlessness in operations. He also cautioned managers at airports with limited hours of operations not to turn down requests for extension of services “especially at this period of electioneering as this could be given political colouration,” saying that “the honourable Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika sees aviation as a support role to every sector and to everybody, irrespective of political leaning.”

    The NAMA helmsman also canvassed for the support and buy-in of managers with respect to the aviation roadmap being implemented by the minister, which he said would enhance the growth of the industry. According to him, airports the world over are best handled by experts who run them as a business and not the government, adding that “concessioning of airports in Nigeria would attract direct foreign investment necessary for export expansion, development of aerotropolis, airport cities, cargo terminals as well as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operations.”

  • Nigeria re-elected to ICAO-PKD board for the 4th time

    Nigeria re-elected to ICAO-PKD board for the 4th time

    In recognition of the vital roles Nigeria has been playing on the global stage of electronic Travel Documents, the country has been re-elected as a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization Public Key Directory (ICAO-PKD) Board for the fourth time.

    The ICAO-PKD, is a central repository for exchanging the information required to authenticate electronic Machine Readable Travel Documents (eMRTDs) such as ePassports, electronic ID cards and Visible Digital Seals.

    In a statement esigned by the NIS’ spokesman, Tony Akuneme on behalf of the Comptroller General of Immigration, Isah Jere Idris, MFR  and made available to African Business Travel News (ABTN), the election of Nigeria and other countries to the Board, was the high point of the 29th ICAO-PKD Board meeting held in Speke Resort Munyoyo, Uganda, from  November 16 to 17, 2022.

    The ICAO-PKD Board is the standing body responsible for the global aviation body’s administration and operation procedures to ensure efficient operation of the PKD, including its financial and contractual management. It as well develops policies.
    ICAO-PKD is made up of 88 member countries, with 15 Board members who serve three-year term each. Board members are nominated and voted by PKD participants and are appointed by ICAO Council in accordance with the provision of the  Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

    Nigeria has over the years been an active participant in the ICAO-PKD Board meetings and has contributed immensely, especially on the issue of electronic Passport control systems and border control solutions. The Nigerian delegation was led by the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service.

  • Dana Air Resumes November 9th

    Dana Air Resumes November 9th

    …appreciate customers for unwavering loyalty

    Nigerian Carrier, Dana Air has announced that it will resume flight operations on the 9th of November after a successful conclusion of the audit organised by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

    The airline in a statement said ” We are pleased to announce that we will resume flights operations on November 9th, having successfully concluding an audit organised by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

    According to the Accountable Manager/ Chief Operating Officer of Dana Air, Ememobong Ettete “The audit for us was a re-engineering and restructuring process and having successfully concluded the audit and an extensive one at that for the second time, and with a new management team fully in charge, we are now well positioned despite the current challenges and hostile economic environment, and concentrating fully on strengthening our operations efficiently for sustainable growth while still offering safe, reliable and exciting flying experience to our loyal guests.”

    He continued ”As a proudly Nigerian brand with Nigerians at the helm of affairs and with over 14 years service to the Nigerian flying public, we remain eternally grateful to our customers, travel partners, clients and vendors for keeping faith with us while the audit lasted and we would never take your loyalty and support for granted as it means a lot to us.”

    We wish to also express our profound gratitude to the NCAA for the painstaking Audit process and the professionalism exhibited by the team of inspectors and also the management personnel who stayed sometimes beyond their official closing times to see that we do what is needed to be done properly and in good time during the course of the Audit process.”

    This audit has repositioned us as a vibrant and resilient brand and it’s turned out really good for us and for the industry at large. This is also highly recommended for all domestic airlines for the good of the industry.

    “For customers with unused tickets, and as a little token for our short absence from the market, we have extended their validity for one year, a transfer option is also available to them and we shall be offering competitive fares as always, and gifting free tickets onboard our flights for the next 30 days from November 9th.

    Our 24/7 customer service team will also be available to assist customers with any request of their choice on unused tickets and redemption.”

    Also speaking on the resumption, Kingsley Ezenwa, Dana Air’s Head of Corporate Communications said : We wish to sincerely and once again tender our unreserved apologies to all our customers, vendors, travel partners, corporate clients for the abrupt suspension of our flights.

    We totally regret the inconveniences caused and we wish to reassure them that Dana Air remains strong and will never take their patronage, relationship and loyalty for granted.”

    Having flown over 4.5m passengers since November 10, 2008 Dana Air is one of Nigeria’s leading airlines with a varied fleet of 9 aircraft and daily flights from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu and Owerri.

  • Feature: Facts about Dubai’s Most Iconic Hotel, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

    Feature: Facts about Dubai’s Most Iconic Hotel, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

    It is well known to everyone that Burj Al Arab Jumeirah (https://www.Jumeirah.com) is an architectural marvel that has put Dubai on the world map. The sail-shaped hotel was designed to become the icon of Dubai; a hotel that reflected the emirate’s past and its future as well as its bold ambition to become one of the most culturally diverse and dynamic cities in the world. The all-suite hotel not only challenges the norms of hotel design but has also redefined the meaning of luxury hospitality in both Dubai and around the world. Dubai’s most iconic hotel and a global icon of Arabian luxury, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is the flagship hotel of Jumeirah Group’s portfolio of exceptional properties, representing a timeless pinnacle of luxury. 

    In addition to being home to some of Dubai’s most exquisite destination dining experiences, from the Michelin-starred, three Toque Al Muntaha and the ultimate lifestyle destination at SAL, to the first man-made luxury beach facility of its kind at The Terrace with 24 luxury private cabanas, including 8 Royal Cabanas, we have wrapped up 6 facts that you’ve probably didn’t know about Burj Al Arab Jumeirah but are key contributors to creating a memorable experience.

    1. Arrive in style: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah offers its own fleet of Rolls-Royces available for guests’ transfers to and from Dubai International Airport or around the emirate. For the ultimate arrival, guests can arrive by helicopter, landing on the iconic cantilevered helipad, suspended 212 meters above sea level.
    2. A golden dream: The interiors of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah are gilded in 24-carat gold, with approximately 2,000sqm of 24-carat gold leaf used to embellish the hotel’s opulent interiors.
    3. Taking wellness to the next level: Located on the 25th floor, Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is the first and only location in the Middle East – and second worldwide after the luxurious Capri Palace Jumeirah – to offer guests the exclusive Leg School®. Known throughout the world for its excellence in the prevention and cure of cellulite, water retention and all vascular problems in the legs, the unique programme has been developed over several years of practice and research to help improve the blood circulation of the lower limbs. The methodology, formulated and patented by Professor Francesco Canonaco, consists of the application of rich active substances and vaso-active elements, which produce a bio-stimulation on the outer and innermost layers of skin increasing elasticity and preventing stretch marks. 
    4. Michelin star dining: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s exceptional culinary talent and gastronomic experiences have been lauded in the inaugural Michelin Guide Dubai 2022, with its signature restaurant, Al Muntaha, gaining one Michelin star for its outstanding expertise and artistry. Serving up the finest Italian cuisine by acclaimed Chef Saverio Sbaragli, the stunning restaurant was recognised for its harmony of flavours and spectacular setting overlooking the city and crystalline Arabian Gulf. 
    5. Soak up the luxury with your own butler: The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Terrace is a remarkable, one-of-a-kind restaurant, pool, beach and cabana space, offering hotel guests and Burj Al Arab members the finest Arabian hospitality. The private 10,000sqm outdoor luxury leisure facility stretches 100 metres out into the sea and is home to SAL Restaurant and two stunning pools, ideal for relaxing, cooling down and soaking up the Arabian sun within plush surroundings. The private cabanas offer unrivalled poolside facilities along with dedicated butler service, a dining, beverage and bar menu, spa menu, fully stocked mini-bars, espresso machines, as well as a private bathroom, shower area and a veranda overlooking the sea.
    6. 24-Carat Gold Cappuccino: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is offering guests the chance to indulge in a cappuccino sprinkled with 24-carat gold flakes. Dubai’s most iconic hotel introduced The Ultimate Gold Cappuccino served at its Sahn Eddar lounge, which is located within the hotel’s atrium, from 8am to 11pm. The coffee is made using 100% Arabica beans, mixed with foamed milk that is then blended with 24-carat gold. The drink boasts the hotel’s iconic sail-shaped design, and is served alongside a Grand Cru Guanaja, a chocolate marshmallow also sprinkled with gold.
  • Emirates Boarding Pass unlocks exclusive offers for new holiday season

    Emirates Boarding Pass unlocks exclusive offers for new holiday season

    Emirates has announced today the return of its popular My Emirates Pass. Starting from 1st November 2022 to 31st March 2023, the special pass enables customers to get more from their trip with exclusive offers at over 500 locations in the UAE, throughout the December holiday season and beyond.

    Emirates customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to hundreds of retail, leisure and dining outlets, as well as famous attractions and luxury spas, to enjoy fantastic discounts throughout Dubai and the UAE www.emirates.com/myemiratespass. 

    In addition, Emirates passengers can also enjoy a complimentary ticket to Tour Dubai’s one hour Creek Sightseeing Cruise, which gives unrivalled panoramic views of Dubai’s historic district from a traditional show boat.

    Whether it’s catching up on major sports events such as the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens and DP World Tour golf events, or immersing yourself in the festive celebrations this December, there is something for every traveller when visiting Dubai this Christmas holiday season.

    From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world-class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai offers a variety of world-class experiences.

    Customers can book their holiday to Dubai through Emirates Holidays. All Emirates Holidays include flexible booking options and a dedicated 24/7 On Holiday Service team which will be available to support holidaymakers for every moment that they’re away. Members of Emirates’ award-winning loyalty programme, Skywards, can earn Miles on everyday spending at retail outlets in the UAE, and redeem these Miles for reward tickets, upgrades, as well as tickets for concerts and sports events.  Customers will also be availed  the Dubai Experience that enables them to 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.

  • Onyema bags GCU 2022 Man of the Year Award

    Onyema bags GCU 2022 Man of the Year Award

    Chairman of Air Peace, Barrister Allen Onyema, has been conferred with the prestigious Man of the Year Award 2022 by the prominent alumni association, Government College of Ughelli, GCU, Class of Friends.

    The award ceremony, which held on Sunday, October 30, 2022, at the Federal Palace Hotel, VI, had in attendance several alumni who have made a mark in various facets of life, including Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CEO, Arise News and ThisDay Newspaper, honoured with the Mariner of the Century. 

    Onyema was honoured for his landmark strides in aviation and his behemothic humanitarian interventions, especially his corporate philanthropy through Air Peace and commendable national peace advocacy. 

    While receiving the award, Onyema expressed gratitude to the leadership of the GCU and stated that he is proud to be an alumnus of the college, adding that it had tremendous influence on him.

    He further called on the private sector and well meaning Nigerians to support Nigeria’s education as government alone cannot do it all. Onyema promised to continually support the infrastructure development of the GCU.

    The Chairman of the Board of Trustees, GCU Class of Friends,  Mr. Cyril Ogude, said both Onyema and Obaigbena have established themselves as high achievers, and by honouring them, the GCU is acknowledging them as entrepreneurial role models.

    The GCU Man of the Year Awards celebrates high achievers of the GCU alumni. The Class of Friends is a collective of Old Boys of Government College Ughelli, one of Nigeria’s premier secondary schools, founded in 1945.

  • NAMA MD Tasks Airlines on Incident Reporting

    NAMA MD Tasks Airlines on Incident Reporting

    …inducted into the AFARN Hall of Fame

    The Acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Mr. Matthew Lawrence Pwajok has urged pilots, air traffic controllers, airlines, ground handlers, passengers and other stakeholders in the aviation industry to continue to report aviation incidents to the safety authorities as this would further enhance the relative safety in the industry and also boost confidence in air travel.

    Pwajok who was an award recipient at the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria (AFARN) safety summit and awards which held in Lagos at the weekend contended that investing in sensitization of key stakeholders in the area of safety reporting is as important as investing in safety-critical equipment and manpower training, stressing that incident reports were a critical and strategic aspect of the aviation safety chain, because “if you don’t report incidents we can’t control them, if we don’t have reports we cannot provide the required risk analysis and mitigations.”

    He commended pilots “for being very faithful in incident reporting, even to the detriment of the airlines, as this could sometimes cause slight flight delays while awaiting a review or investigation of the incident by NCAA before releasing the aircraft back for operations. NCAA for investigation, and when the reported event or defect is mitigated, the aircraft is released back to service. For instance, we had an occurrence at Escravos yesterday that was reported to the control tower by the pilot, and consequently, NAMA informed AIB and NCAA, and after the required mitigations were effected, the aircraft was released back to service. It is as prompt as that! These are the kind of 24/7 collaboration, cooperation, and coordination that have largely enhanced safety in the sector.”

    The NAMA boss appreciated stakeholders in the industry for the enhanced safety in the sector which he attributed to the effective synergy amongst stakeholders and strategic efforts by service providers. The NAMA MD opined that the relative safety enjoyed in the sector over the last 10 years was not by chance or luck but as a result of significant investments both in infrastructural deployment and human capital development to enhance safety in the Nigerian airspace, thereby ensuring that major air disasters such as those witnessed between 2005 and 2006 were a thing of the past.

    According to him, “one of the first things the agency did under the Obasanjo government was the implementation of Safe Tower project and this began with the automation of the control tower at Abuja airport in 2007. In 2008 we completed that of Lagos and Port Harcourt and subsequently Kano. This project provided the main mitigation to what was considered the primary cause of most of these air disasters. The project provided NAMA with automated air traffic management systems, as well as meteorological sensors along the runways, and provided ATC with real-time weather information from the runways, availing us with wind direction, wind speed, low-level wind shear alerting systems, cloud altitudes, cloud densities, cloud direction of movement, air temperature, air pressure, prevailing weather conditions, etc. Thus, basically, every element of weather is displayed at the control tower at the four major airports, so pilots are given adequate information on approaching weather, prevailing weather, or forecasted weather conditions.”

    “We went further to deploy the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) in 2010. We could now track aircraft over the entire airspace of Nigeria and beyond, unlike before when air traffic controllers had to manually depend on pilot reports to control and ensure safety of flights, separation of aircraft from each other, and sequence them for arrival or for takeoff. The radar system has the capacity to detect conflicts, aircraft crossing each other, with inbuilt ground safety nets such as short-term conflict alert, and medium-term conflict detection with respect to aircraft crossing at the same level or in close proximity either vertically or laterally, the radar system will alert ATC. The radar system is also equipped with minimum safe altitude warning, thus if you are very low to the terrain it will alert us. The system also has a danger area infringement warning to alert aircraft away from restricted, prohibited or dangerous areas with known or reported activities hazardous to air safety. These are all ground safety nets, about ten of them that are in-built in the radar system to give the air traffic controller adequate information, and to a large extent, that has enhanced safety in our airspace.”

    Pwajok further stated that the drive towards enhancing air safety is attributable to global, regional and national initiatives following the development of the ICAO Global Air Navigation Plan, Global Aviation Safety Plan in 2012. At the regional level, the ministers responsible for civil aviation in Africa met in Abuja, Nigeria following the ranking of Africa as the continent with the least volume of flight operations, but with the highest fatal accidents rate in the world. “Thus on 20th July 2012, we had the ministerial declaration in Abuja: what the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) refers to as the Abuja Safety Targets. Ministers responsible for aviation met in Abuja, reviewed the safety level in Africa and agreed that over 60% of the fatal accidents were caused by (i) loss of control in flight (ii) controlled flight into terrain, and (iii) runway incursion, excursion and confusion. In addressing these, the Ministerial Conference and the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) came up with a 16-point agenda out of that declaration: to reduce loss of controlled flight into the terrain by 50%; reduce runway incursion and excursion by 50%; reduce loss of control in flight by 50%, implement state safety programme by CAAs and also ensure effective implementation of oversight, Pwajok said.”

    He noted that the above strategies were domesticated at national levels, while strategic and concerted efforts were made towards implementation and enhancement of air safety through investment in safety critical infrastructure, training, establishment of safety management system and quality management system, as well as development of safety plans, safety policies, safety objectives, safety key performance indicators, and acceptable level of safety performance. He also lauded the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika for facilitating the huge investment in development of air navigation services in line with the aviation roadmap, as well championing recent collaborative efforts by aviation agencies, airlines and other stakeholders in a bid to enhance safety in the nation’s airspace.

    This year’s AFARN summit with the theme- Aviation Safety in a Global Distressed Economy: The Place of Nigeria, also had in attendance the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Capt. Rabiu Yadudu, Commissioner, Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), Engr. Akin Olateru and the representative of DG, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), who were also inducted into the AFARN Hall of Fame alongside Pwajok.

  • 8th Anniversary: Air Peace Gifts Customers Flight Tickets, Promises More Connectivity 

    8th Anniversary: Air Peace Gifts Customers Flight Tickets, Promises More Connectivity 

    Air Peace is celebrating its 8th Anniversary today, October 24, 2022, and is giving customers and frequent flyers free flight tickets. 

    The airline’s stations nationwide are decorated to reflect the celebrations and it has initiated a couple of social media activities to reward lucky customers with free flight tickets.

    The Spokesperson of Air Peace, Stanley Olisa, expressed delight that the airline is eight years stronger and added that in less than a decade, it has created massive impact in Nigeria’s and, by extension,  West Africa’s,  aviation industry.

    “We are very happy to be celebrating 8 years of providing connectivity for Nigerians and abundantly thankful to them for their support and patronage since inception. We could not have come this far without you.

    “We started with a vision to seamlessly interconnect cities and a future-proof blueprint to achieve that vision, and we are on track.

    “From starting with seven aircraft exactly 8 years ago, we have grown to become a leader in the West African markets, easing the burden of air travel with the provision of multiple network options for the flying public while also contributing immensely to the growth of the economies where we operate”, Olisa stressed.

    Olisa noted that the airline is consistently innovating to continually serve the flying public the best and promised improved service delivery.

  • World Vegan Day – Emirates embraces demand for plant-based meals and healthier choices

    World Vegan Day – Emirates embraces demand for plant-based meals and healthier choices

    Emirates has delivered a resounding response to heightened demand for plant-based cuisine with a multimillion-dollar investment into new vegan choices onboard, in a remarkable gesture that heralds the upcoming World Vegan Day on November 1. This comprises a curated menu of gourmet vegan dishes, introduced into First and Business Class and menus a refreshed selection of plant-based produce for the Economy Class.


    Renowned for its responsive alertness to customers’ concerns, this latest move by Emirates will help cater to the rapid growth of the global vegan community and general interest in herbivorous diets, It is setting new standards in customer experience with delicious and healthy options for cosmopolitan customers following a vegan lifestyle, or for those who seek a lighter meal choice while travelling. Vegan options are available to order and pre-order onboard, as well as in Emirates Lounges. 

    While Emirates has been serving vegan options onboard since the 1990’s, the vegan requirements were initially focused on specific routes such as Addis Ababa where vegan meals are required during certain times of the year by those practising the Ethiopian Orthodox faith, or across the Indian subcontinent where multiple faiths encouraged a plant-based diet. Vegan dishes are now rapidly gaining general popularity on US, Australian, some European and UK routes, with Emirates noting a sizable increase in interest in vegan dishes over the last decade. Routes showing recent increasing interest in vegan meals include Beirut, Cairo, and Taiwan. Currently Emirates offers more than 180 plant-based recipes catering to vegan customers.

    Already consistently rated as the best airline for vegan travellers by many dedicated website polls including VegNews, Emirates has invested into developing a new vegan menu to rival acclaimed restaurants. The vegan menu in First and Business Class spent a year in development in Emirates Flight Catering, an expansive facility based at Dubai International airport, which is home to 11,000 employees and serves up to 225,000 meals daily. It is the largest flight catering facility in the world and home to international chefs of 69 different nationalities. The menu was the focus of multiple presentations and tastings, featuring contributions from diverse cuisine specialists like Chinese, Indian and Arabic speciality chefs, to create a wide range of flavours and textures. The tasting panels included both vegan and non-vegan chefs and team-members to ensure an inclusive approach.

    In Economy Class, the vegan menus are also refreshed every month, providing a wide variety of dishes to frequent travellers. The vegan meals in Economy Class are available to pre-order and have been extremely well received by passengers worldwide. Current passenger favourites include a creamy spinach and avocado mousseline, with marinated tofu, blanched snow peas, radish, asparagus, pomegranate seeds, courgette ribbon and sriracha oil, or the multi colored quinoa with succulent caramelised pear and celeriac purée, roasted cauliflower, glazed carrots, sautéed kale and lovage pesto, and the hearty Autumnal flavours of barley risotto with mushrooms, served with sundried tomatoes, buttered chestnuts, blanched broccolini and toasted pumpkin seeds.The vegan desserts are also very delicious and features tempting choices such as a dark chocolate custard cake balanced by fresh, juicy strawberries, a zesty lemon tart lightly laced with coconut cream and a rich chocolate tofu cheesecake complemented by a sweet strawberry compote.

    The benefits of plant-powered choices are of increasing interest to health-conscious customers who may not define themselves as vegan but will occasionally choose lighter choices to complement their lifestyle. Alternative products used onboard Emirates include items like artisan vegan cheese, chickpea flour instead of white flour, because chickpea flour is gluten-free and naturally aerates dishes like crepes and omelettes to an irresistible fluffy texture. Coconut or vegetable-based cream is used instead of full fat dairy cream, coconut butter or margarine instead of dairy butter, and coconut and flaxseed oil are used as healthier alternatives to vegetable oil, with the bonus of infusing additional flavour to dishes and a high smoke point. The dishes also incorporate a range of super foods including rich-in-antioxidant black and white quinoa seeds, which help with cholesterol and blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The new vegan menu in tFirst and Business Class features unique koftas, made with plant-based products from the world-renowned Beyond meat company. Vegan desserts have been created using organic dark chocolate with 60% raw cocoa ingredients, sourced from the Dominican Republic. Vegan dishes are complemented by refreshing Vitality juices, a bespoke range of juice blends, created by beloved UAE brand Barakat. Each gluten free and vegan juice is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants, with no added sugar, additives, or preservatives.

    The Emirates team of award-winning chefs have put together a creative new menu, where vegetables take centre stage and the absence of meat isn’t felt, through clever use of textures and infusions to conjure the essential umami effect. Jackfruit, a fibrous tree fruit from southwest India, is used as a focal point in some of the vegan dishes as it cooks out with a meaty texture. Kohlrabi, a Northern European cross between cabbage and a turnip, has a mild taste that absorbs the flavours it’s marinated in or cooked with – a very effective addition to vegan cuisine. Other core ingredients providing a moreish meal include the inimitable tofu, cauliflower steak and varieties of nuts and legumes. With an emphasis on freshness, vibrancy of taste and satiety, Emirates’ new vegan dishes showcase a tempting collection of colourful and healthy choices including heirloom cherry tomato tofu with edamame and roasted sesame, thyme scented mushroom ragout, fresh Hass avocado and mango salad timbale, or kale and cranberry salad served on a bed of grilled sweet potato. Ensuring that the tasty and healthy dishes are also edible to the eye, vegan meals are delicately garnished with farm-fresh herbs, berries, and colourful jus,’ while several of the new vegan desserts are adorned with thin sheets of genuine gold leafs.

    Vegan options onboard Emirates are nutrient-dense and rich in greens, fruits, and vegetables, sourced from several UAE-based suppliers including fresh locally grown kale, heirloom cherry tomatoes, salad leafs and herbs from Bustanica. Bustanica is the world’s largest hydroponic vertical farm, a US$40 million joint venture investment through Emirates Flight Catering. The Bustanica farm is driven by powerful technology – machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced methods – and a specialised in-house team that includes agronomy experts, engineers, horticulturists, and plant scientists. A continuous production cycle ensures the produce is perfectly fresh and clean, and grown without pesticides, herbicides, or chemicals. All passengers on Emirates will be served delicious leafy greens, including lettuces, arugula, mixed salad greens, and spinach directly from Bustanica, with plans for even more fruit and vegetables to be farmed in the future