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Showing posts from 2025

Independence Day Celebration: SAA's Aviation Youth Forum Inspires Next Gen - By Daisy BARRO

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In a move to reaffirm its commitment to youth development and empowerment in Nigeria, South African Airways (SAA) in conjunction with Travel and Business News today hosted the Independence Day Edition of the South African Airways Aviation Youth Forum.  The event themed, "Finding Your Place in Aviation - Ask the Professionals" was held at Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) annex, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and brought together students from various schools, including Air Force Secondary School, Ikeja; Abiolu Comprehensive College, Igando; Abesan Senior High School, Ipaja; Murtala Muhammed Airport Secondary School, Ikeja; and Princeton College, Surulere, to inspire and educate them about the diverse opportunities available in the aviation industry. In her opening address, Mrs. Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, Country Manager, SAA, encouraged the students to explore careers in aviation, saying, "Whether you dream of flying an aircraft, maintaining on...

Transportation: Stakeholders Converge for Talks on Infrastructural Growth - By Daisy BARRO

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The transportation sector in Nigeria is set to witness a gathering of experts, professionals, and policymakers at the upcoming JustNet News maiden summit, themed "Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure: Innovation For A Sustainable Future." Scheduled for October 29, 2025, at the Providence Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, the summit aims to provide a holistic examination of the nation's transport sector, with a particular focus on infrastructure development. According to Mrs. Pearl Ngwama, Managing Director of JustAlive Communications Limited, the summit's organizers, the event will bring together industry leaders to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions to address the challenges facing Nigeria's transport infrastructure. The forum will cover various transportation modes, including aviation, maritime, waterways, road, and railway industries. Ngwama emphasized the importance of the transportation sector to the nation's economy, noting that it is a...

Nigeria's Airports Go Cashless: FAAN Introduces Digital Payment System - By Daisy BARRO

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L-R: Engr. Jensen Asaba, Director, Corporate Services, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); Mr. Fisayo Kolawole, Director, Commercial & Public Sector, Paystack; Ms. Joy Asunbiade, Director, Commercial and Business Development, FAAN; Representative of MD FAAN, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Henry Agbebire; Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director, Special Duties, FAAN; Mr. Olatokunbo Arewa, Regional General Manager, South West, Airports, FAAN. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has taken a significant step towards modernizing airport transactions and enhancing revenue collection with the launch of "Operation Go Cashless," a digital payment initiative in partnership with Paystack. This innovative solution introduces a cashless and contactless payment system across Nigerian airports, starting with Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. In her statement to officially announc...

Africa World Airlines Celebrates 13 Years of Aviation Excellence - By Daisy BARRO

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In a landmark celebration, Africa World Airlines (AWA) marked 13 years of operations on September 21, 2025, commemorating a decade and a half of connecting Africa and beyond. Founded with a vision to bridge Africa's skies, AWA has grown into a trusted and versatile carrier. According to a press statement by the airline, since its inception on September 21, 2012, AWA has evolved into Ghana's foremost carrier. "From those modest beginnings, we have grown into Ghana’s most reliable and punctual airline, a reputation we guard jealously and work tirelessly to uphold", it states. Throughout its history, AWA has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. The COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted the global aviation industry, presented a significant challenge to the airline's operations. However, AWA's ability to adapt and emerge stronger is a testament to its resilience and the dedication of its team. To further enhance the travel e...

SAHCO Secures Air Tanzania Ground Handling Contract - By Daisy BARRO

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Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has been awarded a contract to provide comprehensive ground handling services to Air Tanzania at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria. The services will include passenger handling, baggage handling, ramp handling, cargo handling, warehousing, among others. Air Tanzania will operate three times a week from its hub at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam to Lagos. The Managing Director/CEO of SAHCO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, expressed delight in welcoming Air Tanzania to Lagos, stating, "We are honoured they have chosen SAHCO Plc as their trusted ground handling partner. This contract is a testament to our team's expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and unwavering dedication to operational excellence and safety", she said. SAHCO's reputation has enabled it to attract and retain confidence from existing and new airlines. The company's investment in modern aviation ground supp...

SAHCO Emerges Best Cargo Handling Company in Nigeria - By Daisy BARRO

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L-R: Organizer of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr Ikechi Uko; Rwandan Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Christophe Bavizimo; Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC, Cargo Marketing Manager, Mrs Anne Nwadike; Uganda's Special Advisor on Tourism, Dr Lilly Ajarova at the event. Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has been recognized as the Best Cargo Handling Company in Nigeria for 2024/2025 at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market Conference and Exhibition in Lagos.  In addition to the company's award, SAHCO's Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, and Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, were named among Nigeria's top air cargo personalities. The awards were received by the company's Cargo Marketing Manager, Mrs. Anne Nwadike, on behalf of the Executive Director of Cargo Services, Mrs. Boma Ukwunna. The event organizer, Mr. Ikechi Uko, commended SAHCO for consistently setting standards in aircraft and cargo ground handling services. He no...

WAI - Glowing Wings Chapter Celebrates Girls in Aviation Day 2025 - By Daisy BARRO

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Women in Aviation International (WAI) - Glowing Wings Chapter recently celebrated its annual Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) 2025 with the theme "Breaking Limits - Journeying into Aviation". The event, held on September 17, 2025, at the NCAA Annex in Ikeja, Lagos, brought together women working in the Nigerian aviation sector and female students from Air Force Secondary School, Ikeja; Abesan Senior High School, Ipaja and Queens' College, Yaba for career talks and inspiration. In her keynote address, Mrs. Evelyn Njoku, President of the WAI chapter and General Manager, Public Affairs at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), shared her personal journey into aviation, encouraging the young girls to pursue their dreams without fear. "I stand here today not just as the president of Glowing Wings, but as somebody with dreams just like you, who grew up to become a woman in aviation," she said. "This is a vast industry, and every one of your dream...

NAMA Calls for End to 50% Revenue Deduction - By Daisy BARRO

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The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has called for the intervention of the National Assembly to enable it attain financial autonomy by putting an end to the 50% currently being deducted from the agency's revenue. Engr. Farouk Umar, the Managing Director of NAMA, made this call recently in Abuja during a four-day retreat of the House Committee on Aviation themed "Emerging Trends in Global Aviation: Sustainability, Technology, and Digital Transformation". According to the NAMA chief, modernizing Nigeria's aviation sector cannot happen without financial reform. He emphasized the need for full enforcement of Section 9(2) of the NAMA Act 2022, which stipulates that all fees and charges imposed by NAMA are not subject to deductions or remittance to any other body. "The current 50% deduction at source cripples the agency's capacity to meet its statutory responsibility, expand capacity, and deliver on international obligations", he lamente...

Lagos Aviation Academy Honored with Prestigious "Aviation School of the Year" Award - By Daisy BARRO

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From L–R: H ead of School, Lagos Aviation Academy, Bolaji Durojaiye; Convener, Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko; Public Relations Manager, Finchglow Holdings, Temilade Adu; and Account Manager, Lagos Aviation Academy, Nneka Abazu, at the ongoing 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos . Lagos Aviation Academy (LAA) has been recognized as the "Aviation School of the Year" at the recently held Travellers Award 2024/2025. This award, presented by African Travel Quarterly (ATQ News) in collaboration with the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market, acknowledges LAA's commitment to excellence in aviation training and its significant contribution to Nigeria's growing aviation ecosystem. LAA's programs are fully accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Academy's curriculum has recently been expanded to include new courses such as the Basic Aircraft Technician Course,...

NiMet: Early Warnings A Critical Component of Climate Risk Management - By Daisy BARRO

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L-R: Capt. Alex Badeh, DG, NSIB; Pro. Charles Anosike, DG, NiMet and Capt. Everest Nnaji, Chairman, OAS Helicopters The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which is the body mandated to observe, collate, collect, process, and disseminate weather and climate information for the safety of lives and property in Nigeria, recently hosted its 2025 Stakeholders Forum to discuss its core mandate to the Nigerian public. At the event themed, "Early Warnings: Raising Awareness on Climate Risks and Promoting Early Action," Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General and CEO of NiMet, delivered a keynote speech on co-creating solutions that support sustainable socio-economic developments that build a climate-resilient Nigeria. According to the NiMet boss, the agency collaborates with diverse stakeholders from both governmental and non-governmental organizations, delivering a range of products and services tailored to various socio-economic sectors. NiMet, he noted, has re...

United Nigeria Airlines Inks Deal for 6 B737-800 Jets - By Daisy BARRO

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United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has announced the signing of a landmark aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six (6) Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in the airline's growth and expansion plans, enabling it to broaden its domestic, regional, and international operations. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft is renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements, which improve performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort. With impressive fuel efficiency due to its advanced aerodynamics and efficient engines, the B737-800 significantly reduces operational costs and minimizes environmental impact. Its versatile range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles allows UNA to serve both short-haul and medium-haul routes effectively. The spacious cabin of the B737-800 enhances passenger comfort, featuring wider seats, larger overhead bins, and improved lighting. The aircraft can accommodate up to 189 ...

SAA Ups Flight Frequencies For Festive Season - By Daisy BARRO

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South African Airways (SAA) has announced an increase in flight frequencies on key regional and international routes to cater to the growing demand during the upcoming festive season. The additional flights will operate from October 1, 2025, to February 11, 2026, providing customers with more flexibility and convenience. The new flight schedules include additional frequencies on the Johannesburg-Lagos route, with two extra flights on Mondays and Tuesdays starting October 6, 2025, increasing the weekly frequency to six flights. Similarly, the Johannesburg-Accra route will see two additional flights on Wednesdays and Fridays, commencing October 1, 2025, boosting the weekly frequency to six flights. Furthermore, SAA will introduce two extra flights on Wednesdays and Sundays on the Johannesburg-São Paulo route, starting December 10, 2025. Mr. Tebogo Tsimane, SAA's Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the airline's commitment to serving its customers better, stating, ...

NAMA Kickstarts Full-Scale Kano FIR Audit - By Daisy BARRO

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The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has launched a comprehensive audit of the Kano Flight Information Region (FIR), covering Nigeria's entire airspace. This systematic self-appraisal aims to evaluate safety performance, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, ensuring alignment with international best practices. The exercise, which commenced on Tuesday August 19, 2025, is one that will not only reflect on past achievements but also chart the course for the future of Nigeria's airspace management. The audit will cover detailed inspections of Nigeria's four major international airports — Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt — along with Enugu, Maiduguri, and several state and private aerodromes, including Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) facilities across the nation. The exercise seeks to identify gaps, risks, and opportunities for improvement in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and ...

Finchglow Holidays and Ethiopian Airlines Partner to Boost Bilateral Tourism - By Daisy BARRO

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From L-R: Head of Business, Finchglow Holidays, Oluwaseun Afolabi and Area Manager - Nigeria, Ethiopian Airlines, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, at the official signing of a strategic partnership between Ethiopian Holidays, Ethiopian Airlines, and Finchglow Holidays, recently held in Lagos. Finchglow Holidays, one of Nigeria's leading curated travel and tour experience provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopian Holidays to expand travel opportunities to Ethiopia. This collaboration will enable Nigerian travelers to enjoy expertly curated tour packages that showcase Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, along with in-country visa facilitation. The deal aims to strengthen aviation and tourism links between Nigeria and Ethiopia, stimulate tourism flows, boost trade opportunities, and enhance bilateral economic relations between the two nations. Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, Bank...

SAHCO Posts Remarkable 155.4% Leap in Profit for H1 2025 - By Daisy BARRO

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Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO) has announced its unaudited half-year financial results for the period ended June 30, 2025, showcasing a significant 155.4% surge in profit driven by robust revenue growth and operational efficiency. The company's revenue reached ₦21.063 billion, representing a 74% increase compared to ₦12.11 billion posted in the same period in 2024. ‎ ‎This growth, SAHCO divulged, can be attributed to increased demand for aviation handling services, strategic partnerships, and operational expansion both locally and regionally. The company's focus on workforce development, infrastructure upgrades, and compliance with enhanced industry regulations has also contributed to the exceptional increase in bottom-line performance. ‎ ‎Dr. Taiwo Afolabi (CON), Chairman of SAHCO Plc, attributed the outstanding performance to the dedication of the team, client loyalty, and the company's strategic focus on sustainable growth. He stated, "This...

African Development Bank and Ethiopian Airlines Partner on Mega Airport Project - By Daisy BARRO

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‎A landmark agreement has been reached between Ethiopian Airlines Group (EAG) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the financing of Africa's largest aviation infrastructure project. Following the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) on March 24th, 2025, the two entities have formalized their partnership through a mandate letter, appointing AfDB as the Initial Mandated Lead Arranger (IMLA) for the mega airport project. ‎ ‎The new greenfield airport, situated 40 kilometers south of Addis Ababa in Abusera, will boast an initial capacity of 60 million passengers annually, with future expansion plans to accommodate 110 million passengers. This will cement its position as the largest airport in Africa and one of the top global hubs. The AfDB will provide a loan of USD 500 million and lead the mobilization of the remaining amount required for the project's development. ‎ ‎Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating,...

FG Inaugurates FAAN Board Members; Charges Them to Prioritize Safety and Passenger Experience - By Daisy BARRO

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The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards repositioning the Nigerian aviation sector for enhanced performance, safety, and global competitiveness with the inauguration of the newly appointed Board Members of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The ceremony, held at the Ministry's Headquarters in Abuja, was officiated by the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FICArb (UK), on July 9, 2025. In his inaugural address, Keyamo emphasized the importance of the Board's role in driving transformative change in the aviation sector. He highlighted four key areas of focus for the board, including strengthening safety and security measures across all Nigerian airports, promoting sustainable practices in aviation operations, enhancing passenger experience and quality of service, and encouraging strategic partnerships with both local and international stakeholders. "The success of FAAN is not meas...

Delta Air Lines Elevates Travel Experience for Nigerian Customers - By Daisy BARRO

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Delta Air Lines has announced significant upgrades to its services for customers traveling between Nigeria and the United States. As of July 1, passengers departing from Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos have been enjoying a newly renovated premium lounge space designed to provide an elevated and comfortable ground experience. According to Matteo Curcio, Delta's Senior Vice President for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India, "With the launch of our new premium lounge in Lagos and the introduction of our most advanced aircraft on our routes, we are reaffirming Delta's commitment to Nigerian travelers. This is an investment in infrastructure, and we strive to deliver an exceptional travel experience from West Africa to the world." The new lounge in Lagos offers an enhanced customer experience with more space, contemporary Nigerian-inspired design, high-speed Wi-Fi, private relaxation areas, and premium refreshments. It equally caters to...

Cross River State to Train 100 Aviation Professionals with LAA's Expertise - By Daisy BARRO

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The visit, which aligns with Cross River State's plans to train 100 aviation professionals in anticipation of launching new aircraft operations, was an opportunity for Capt. Utum to highlight the importance of institutions like LAA in shaping the future of the aviation industry: "Institutions like LAA are not just responding to the industry's needs, they are shaping its future," he stated. "As we look to grow aviation across Nigeria, the importance of skilled talent and industry-aligned training like what LAA offers cannot be overstated." Since its inception in 2017, LAA has trained over 3,000 professionals across various aviation disciplines, including cabin crew, flight dispatch, and cargo handling. The academy boasts a job placement rate exceeding 60%, with graduates working at prominent airlines, travel companies, and aviation service providers throughout Nigeria and West Africa. The Academy's commitment to excellence has earned it multip...

TAAG and Turkish Airlines Solidify Longstanding Cooperation - By Daisy BARRO

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TAAG Angola Airlines and Turkish Airlines have renewed their Interline and Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) during the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting held in New Delhi from June 1-3, 2025. The renewal was formally signed by Mr. Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines and Mr. Bilal Ekşi, CEO of Turkish Airlines, solidifying the longstanding cooperation between the two carriers. The agreement will continue to support seamless travel options for passengers connecting across both airlines' networks, enhancing connectivity between Africa, Europe, Asia, and beyond. The partnership enables passengers to enjoy a more streamlined travel experience, with easy connections and convenient scheduling. In addition to the renewal, both parties engaged in strategic discussions exploring further collaboration opportunities. Topics included the potential launch of a codeshare partnership, cargo cooperation, and technical assistance in areas such as maintenance a...

Ethiopian Airlines Expands Global Reach from Lagos with New Flights - Daisy BARRO

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Ethiopian Airlines (ET) is set to increase its flight frequency from Lagos to Addis Ababa, effective July 1. The airline will introduce a second daily flight, providing passengers with more options and enhanced benefits. The additional flights will offer seamless connections to numerous African and Asian destinations, reducing overall flight times for travelers. The new flights will feature increased baggage allowances for passengers traveling to Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Dubai. Moreover, passengers will earn double miles when flying with the airline, as part of its loyalty program. According to Mrs. Firiehiwot Mekonnen, Area Manager of ET in Nigeria, "You can also get double double miles if you fly with us." She added, "We are offering these extra benefits to reward our loyal passengers as we offer more flights and options out of Lagos. These extra flights help us improve service delivery and reduce costs for travelers. Most of our passengers wi...

NCAT Takes Steps to Reduce Carbon Footprint, Enhance Training Capabilities - By Daisy BARRO

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The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, Kaduna, has kicked off the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondence (LAAC) training, with the Rector and CEO, Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismaila highlighting the institution's efforts to address gaps in aviation training. In his opening remarks, Dr. Ismaila revealed that upon assuming office, he identified significant gaps in infrastructure preventing the college from meeting the training needs of aviation professionals, which often necessitated students seeking training abroad. To bridge this gap, the college has embarked on an ambitious expansion program, including the construction of 150 additional rooms to accommodate the growing demand for training. The Rector also disclosed plans to enhance the college's equipment, citing requests from airlines for more flight simulators. "We have acquired the equipment for carrying out a B737 full flight simulation," he said. "We will put it to use in th...

NAHCO: 44th AGM Set to Showcase Robust Financial Performance - By Daisy BARRO

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GMD/CEO NAHCO Plc, Olumuyiwa Olumekun The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) is gearing up for its 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled to hold on Friday, May 23, 2025. According to sources, NAHCO's profit before tax soared from 115.4% to N18.70 billion in 2024, up from N8.68 billion in 2023. The company's total revenue has also experienced a significant surge, rising by 88.5% from N28.40 billion in 2023 to N53.54 billion in 2024. This growth has led to a 120.53% increase in gross profit, which stood at N33.08 billion in 2024, compared to N15 billion in 2023. Operating profit has also jumped by 123.93% from N8.86 billion to N19.84 billion, underscoring the fact that the group's performance was driven mainly by core business operations. Based on these results, the Dr. Seinde Fadeni-led board of directors has recommended the distribution of N11.58 billion as cash dividends to shareholders for the 2024 business year, more than double the N4.95 billi...

Overland Resumes Warri Flights, Connects Delta State to Abuja and Lagos - By Daisy BARRO

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Overland Airways has resumed flight services to Warri's Osubi Airport from Lagos and Abuja, effective May 20, 2025. This development marks a significant expansion of the airline's route network, enhancing connectivity between Delta State and Nigeria's key hubs. The airline will operate thrice-weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, utilizing its brand-new Embraer E-175 jet aircraft, which features Premium and Economy Class cabins. The flight schedule includes morning arrivals and departures, facilitating seamless connections to destinations in Northern and Southwestern Nigeria. Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mrs. Aderonke Emmanuel-James, stated, "Overland Airways' resumption of flight services to Warri is in response to the yearnings of our customers for reliable air transport to connect the city and its environs with Abuja and Lagos. This flight will support important economic and social linkages between the people of Delta State and othe...

NAMA Flags Off Two-Week On-the-Job Training for Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel - By Daisy BARRO

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The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has commenced a two-week on-the-job training (OJT) for Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPS) of the Department of Communication, Navigation and Surveillance Power Systems. The training, which is being held simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, aims to equip participants with practical skills in maintaining and installing critical facilities. The training covers various facilities, including Automatic Mains Failure (AMF), Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR), Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), Solar Power Systems, Electrical Installations, Cooling Systems, and Generating Sets. Participants will gain hands-on experience in welding, installing air-conditioning compressors, and maintaining solar power systems, among other skills. NAMA's Managing Director, Engr Farouk Ahmed Umar, noted that the training is part of the agency's commitment to enhancing the capacity of its technical and operational staff. He empha...

SAHCO PLC Honoured for Commitment to Safety and Operational Excellence - By Daisy BARRO

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Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has been recognized by British Airways for its performance in safety and punctuality, winning the prestigious Safety and Punctuality Bronze Awards for both its Lagos and Abuja stations for the first quarter of 2025. According to Hellen O’Connor, Regional General Manager for British Airways, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific, "Safety and punctuality are pillars of the aviation industry. We congratulate SAHCO in Lagos and Abuja for their outstanding contributions in achieving our Q1 punctuality goals", she said, adding that both stations achieved the airline's Adjusted Departure Closure (aDC) target of 96% each month during the period. The recognition adds to an already impressive record, as SAHCO has been a consistent winner of the British Airways Safety and Punctuality Awards since it's inception. In 2024, the company's Lagos station received Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum awards, while the Abuja sta...

LABS Student Emerges Best Performer in IATA Foundation Course - By Daisy BARRO

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L-R: Mrs. Aanu Benson, Chief Administration Officer, Landover Company Limited, presenting the Best Performer Award to Ms. Shakira Olagunju Landover Aviation Business School (LABS) has announced that one of its students, Ms. Shakira Olagunju, has achieved the distinction of being the Overall Best Performer in Nigeria for the March 2025 Diet of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Foundation in Travel and Tourism with Amadeus Course. This marks the 10th time a LABS student has been recognized as an IATA Best Performer since 2012. Mrs. Aanu Benson, Chief Administrative Officer of Landover Company, expressed her delight at the achievement, stating, "We are ecstatic to see our student's hard work and dedication pay off. This excellent result is a testament to our team's dedication to nurturing talent and our commitment to excellence in aviation training." She added, "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our star student Ms. Shakira Olag...

NSIB Responds to Airport Safety Concerns - By Daisy BARRO

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The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has responded to recent concerns regarding the safety of Nigerian airports, following a statement from the US State Department suggesting that Nigerian airports are generally unsafe. According to Captain Alex Bade Jr., Director General (DG) of the NSIB, while there is always room for improvement, the NSIB disagrees with the assessment, emphasizing that challenges such as perimeter fencing and wildlife intrusion are not unique to Nigeria and occur at airports globally. "We recognise the need for continuous improvement, and we commend the efforts of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in implementing upgrades," Captain Bade Jr. said during an interview on Arise TV. He highlighted that generalizing Nigerian airports as "totally unsafe" is unfair, noting that such issues are prevalent worldwide, including in the United States. Regarding a recent incident in Asaba where an aircraft encountered anima...

FAAN Commissions Domestic Cargo Wing in Lagos - By Daisy BARRO

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The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the country's cargo handling capabilities with the commissioning of its first-ever purpose-built domestic cargo wing in Lagos. The event marks a major milestone in Nigeria's aviation industry, with the facility set to improve efficiency, capacity, and logistics for businesses of all sizes. According to Lekan Thomas, Director of Cargo Development & Services at FAAN, "Today is about more than just policies and aspirations - it is about tangible growth and new opportunities." Thomas highlighted the importance of the facility, citing statistics from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that Nigeria handled approximately 174,000 metric tonnes of air freight in 2023. The Managing Director & Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has been instrumental in driving reforms and positioning Nigeria's aviation and cargo sectors for internation...

MMA2 Marks 18 Years of Service with New Signage and Community Outreach - By Daisy BARRO

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The Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), operated by Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), marked its 18th anniversary of uninterrupted service in Nigeria's aviation landscape. To commemorate the milestone, BASL unveiled a newly installed 3D exterior signage, enhancing the terminal's visual identity and improving access and orientation for passengers. "The new 3D signage not only enhances the visual identity of the terminal but also improves access and orientation for terminal users," said Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head Corporate Communications, BASL. "Eighteen years on, MMA2 remains a symbol of innovation and private sector excellence in Nigeria's aviation sector." As part of its corporate social responsibility efforts, BASL visited the Bethesda Home and School for the Blind on the second day of the anniversary activities. Kola Bamigboye, Ag. COO and Head, Space and Premises, BASL, expressed the company's commitment to suppor...

Africa's Future Space Leaders Get Boost from Boeing and FASESA - By Daisy BARRO

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The Future African Space Explorer's STEM Academy (FASESA) and Boeing have announced the launch of the second edition of the "Pathways to Space" program, a collaborative educational initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of African space professionals. The program, which debuted in 2024, will reach up to 300 students aged 13-18 from state schools in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria. According to Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, "The 'Pathways to Space' program leverages Boeing's extensive experience in space, combined with FASESA's proven educational methodologies and deep understanding of the African educational landscape, to inspire the next generation to reach for the stars." Sean Jacobs, executive director at FASESA, echoed this sentiment, stating, "We are proud to continue our partnership with Boeing. This program reflects our shared dedication to building Africa’s ...

974 Aviation Professionals Graduate from Ethiopian Aviation University - Daisy BARRO

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Ethiopian Aviation University recently celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of 974 students in various aviation and hospitality fields. The  ceremony, held on May 3, 2025, at the university's premises, was attended by distinguished guests, ambassadors, airline executives, and the graduates' families. The students specialized in several fields, including aircraft maintenance, pilot training, cabin crew, commercial operations, and hotel operations. The graduates represented diverse nationalities, including various African countries and international students from China, Congo, Mozambique, Cameroon, Gabon, Zambia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Sierra Leone. Notably, 614 of them were female, while 360 were male. This diversity highlights the university's ability to attract students from across the continent and beyond, and its commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in the aviation industry. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, cong...