Friday 30 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government has concluded the arrangements with Chinese investors and construction companies for the construction of five new passenger terminals and six new cargo terminals. 

The deal is part of the second phase of the Aviation Road Map of the Ministry of Aviation. New international terminals as well as cargo terminals will be built at Abuja, Enugu, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt, while Asaba is the sixth airport to get a cargo terminal. Work on the new terminals will commence in December 2012 and should be completed within nineteen months.

Jos Airport has also been designated as a cargo airport by the Federal Government. The airport is currently being refurbished as part of the first phase of the airport remodelling exercise.

Meanwhile, travellers are complaining about the new GA terminal at Lagos Airport. The terminal was inaugurated before being completed and delivered by the contractor, ArchiVisual Solutions. For example, the air conditioning and conveyor belts are not yet functional.

Federal Government signs deal for new airport terminals.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government has concluded the arrangements with Chinese investors and construction companies for the construction of five new passenger terminals and six new cargo terminals. 

The deal is part of the second phase of the Aviation Road Map of the Ministry of Aviation. New international terminals as well as cargo terminals will be built at Abuja, Enugu, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt, while Asaba is the sixth airport to get a cargo terminal. Work on the new terminals will commence in December 2012 and should be completed within nineteen months.

Jos Airport has also been designated as a cargo airport by the Federal Government. The airport is currently being refurbished as part of the first phase of the airport remodelling exercise.

Meanwhile, travellers are complaining about the new GA terminal at Lagos Airport. The terminal was inaugurated before being completed and delivered by the contractor, ArchiVisual Solutions. For example, the air conditioning and conveyor belts are not yet functional.
Sky Watch Nigeria.


Egypt's EgyptAir and UAE's Dubai- based Emirates Airlines have cancelled their flights to the Syrian capital of Damascus on Friday due to security concerns.

"Emirates has, with immediate effect, suspended its daily EK913 and EK914 services to/from Damascus until further notice," Emirates Airlines said on its website, without elaborating reasons.

The Dubai-based carrier, however, added in the statement that " the safety of our passengers and crew is of the highest priority and will not be compromised," prompting speculations that security situation around Damascus airport may be deteriorating.

A spokesperson of EgyptAir also told media that the carrier has cancelled its flights to Damascus on Friday.

On Thursday, Syrian government troops and opposition forces engaged in clashes near Damascus, cutting off the road to Damascus airport. Also on Thursday afternoon, most Internet and cell phone services in Syria were cut off.

"In the global routing table, all 84 of Syria's IP address blocks have become unreachable, effectively removing the country from the Internet," U.S. company Renesys, which was monitoring Syria's web traffic, said on its website.

According to Syrian activists, Syrian government often cuts Internet and phone services before launching major military operations, which on Thursday prompted speculations of imminent offensives by government troops.

Earlier on Thursday, an explosive device went off near the house of a leading member of Syria's ruling al-Baath party in the southern province of Daraa, killing three policemen and injuring others. The explosive device, weighing 50 kg, went off in front of the house of a secretary of al-Baath party in Daraa, causing damage to nearby buildings.

On Wednesday, a car bomb rattled the Busra town on the countryside of Daraa and killed two people.

Recently, the fighting has intensified between government troops and Western-backed rebels who are trying to erode Syrian government's grip on the capital and elsewhere in Syria in the hope of hastening the collapse of the Syrian administration.

Airlines suspend flights to Damascus due to security concerns.

Sky Watch Nigeria.


Egypt's EgyptAir and UAE's Dubai- based Emirates Airlines have cancelled their flights to the Syrian capital of Damascus on Friday due to security concerns.

"Emirates has, with immediate effect, suspended its daily EK913 and EK914 services to/from Damascus until further notice," Emirates Airlines said on its website, without elaborating reasons.

The Dubai-based carrier, however, added in the statement that " the safety of our passengers and crew is of the highest priority and will not be compromised," prompting speculations that security situation around Damascus airport may be deteriorating.

A spokesperson of EgyptAir also told media that the carrier has cancelled its flights to Damascus on Friday.

On Thursday, Syrian government troops and opposition forces engaged in clashes near Damascus, cutting off the road to Damascus airport. Also on Thursday afternoon, most Internet and cell phone services in Syria were cut off.

"In the global routing table, all 84 of Syria's IP address blocks have become unreachable, effectively removing the country from the Internet," U.S. company Renesys, which was monitoring Syria's web traffic, said on its website.

According to Syrian activists, Syrian government often cuts Internet and phone services before launching major military operations, which on Thursday prompted speculations of imminent offensives by government troops.

Earlier on Thursday, an explosive device went off near the house of a leading member of Syria's ruling al-Baath party in the southern province of Daraa, killing three policemen and injuring others. The explosive device, weighing 50 kg, went off in front of the house of a secretary of al-Baath party in Daraa, causing damage to nearby buildings.

On Wednesday, a car bomb rattled the Busra town on the countryside of Daraa and killed two people.

Recently, the fighting has intensified between government troops and Western-backed rebels who are trying to erode Syrian government's grip on the capital and elsewhere in Syria in the hope of hastening the collapse of the Syrian administration.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

A request for a hearing before the Supreme Court of the United States by American Airlines in an effort to block its passenger service agents from voting on union representation has been denied by Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, allowing a vote to go forward next week.


The Communications Workers of America has been pushing for a vote by the 9,700 agents for about a year. American spokesman Bruce Hicks said that the Supreme Court request to block the vote was an attempt by the airline to recognize that the majority of those workers did not ask for or approve of the vote to join the union. But "with the election going forward, we urge all of our agents and representatives to vote," he said.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the airline sought to block the vote because the union failed to get authorization cards from 50 percent of the affected workers ... a standard included in a law enacted in February. The National Mediation Board disagreed, saying that because the application had been filed before December 2011 that an earlier 35 percent benchmark should apply.

It would have required four of the nine Supreme Court Justices to agree to hear the case, which did not happen. That hearing would likely not have come before January in any case. The paper reports that voting instructions have gone out to the workers, and that the outcome will be decided by a majority of the votes cast.

SOURCE: Good Pilot News.

SCOTUS Will Not Block AA Passenger Service Union Vote.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

A request for a hearing before the Supreme Court of the United States by American Airlines in an effort to block its passenger service agents from voting on union representation has been denied by Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, allowing a vote to go forward next week.


The Communications Workers of America has been pushing for a vote by the 9,700 agents for about a year. American spokesman Bruce Hicks said that the Supreme Court request to block the vote was an attempt by the airline to recognize that the majority of those workers did not ask for or approve of the vote to join the union. But "with the election going forward, we urge all of our agents and representatives to vote," he said.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the airline sought to block the vote because the union failed to get authorization cards from 50 percent of the affected workers ... a standard included in a law enacted in February. The National Mediation Board disagreed, saying that because the application had been filed before December 2011 that an earlier 35 percent benchmark should apply.

It would have required four of the nine Supreme Court Justices to agree to hear the case, which did not happen. That hearing would likely not have come before January in any case. The paper reports that voting instructions have gone out to the workers, and that the outcome will be decided by a majority of the votes cast.

SOURCE: Good Pilot News.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

Airbus is again increasing the maximum takeoff weight of its two A330 models. The manufacturer plans to offer the A330-300 and A330-200 in 242-ton variants, giving the aircraft an additional 500 nm and 350 nm range, respectively, over the current A330 portfolio.

The changes come on top of increases announced at this year’s Farnborough air show. At the time, Airbus revealed plans to go from 235 tons to 240 tons for the A330-300 and from 238 to 240 tons for the smaller and already longer-range A330-200.

The new option will be available from 2015. Airbus says the 240-ton option likely will be superseded by the latest iteration. To allow for the added fuel capacity in the A330-300, Airbus is activating the center fuel tank for the first time. Using it has been standard already on the A330-200. Airbus says the improvements will enable airlines to fly the A330-300 on longer-range routes, such as Kuala Lumpur to Paris and Frankfurt, which should satisfy Malaysia Airlines, which has been seeking more range on the A330. Activating the center fuel tank on the A330-300 raises the fuel capacity of the type from the current 97,530 liters to 139,090 liters.

According to Airbus, there are no structural modifications needed beyond those that have been in the works for the 240-ton version, which will remain an option. For the center fuel tank, which has previously been sealed on the A330-300, pumps and an inerting system will be installed that will be identical to the one used on the A330-200. When Airbus launched the 240-ton variant in Farnborough, it did not foresee the use of the center fuel tank.

The modifications include limited changes to the wing structure, a load-alleviation design and movement of the ailerons to compensate for higher loads during turbulence. This enables Airbus to leave the wing essentially unchanged because the higher expected loads are tempered by the new design.

Airbus also has analyzed the wing’s structural margins and has been able to build on work for the A330-200F. An aerodynamic improvement package will provide 1% less fuel burn, and Airbus expects engine makers to achieve another 1% reduction. The inboard slat has been reshaped and the flap fairings shortened, but Airbus will not use new A320-style winglets, or “sharklets,” because that would have required significant changes to the wing.

Airbus for years has been developing performance and range improvements for the A330. This has caused the A330-300 to evolve from a medium-haul aircraft into one that now is able to fly most of the long sectors between Europe and North America; the current operational limits, however, keep the A330 from serving the longer intercontinental flights from Asia.

The new 242-ton A330-300 will have a 6,100-nm range at full passenger load, compared with 3,900 nm for the initial 212-ton version built from 1994. That first generation aircraft covered 65% of the Boeing 777-200ER markets because of its much-reduced range, but the latest upgrade will increase this to 94% from 2015.

The updated 242-ton variant also will be able to serve 91% of all existing long-haul markets out of London Heathrow Airport. Airbus has received 613 firm orders for the A330-300, of which 426 have been delivered, while the A330-200 has 577 firm orders and 476 deliveries. The -300 continues to outsell the smaller -200, with 58 orders received for the -300 in 2012, compared with 11 for the -200. Airbus has delivered 32 -200s and 42 -300s so far this year.

Airbus Pushes Limits On A330 Range With New Upgrade Package.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Airbus is again increasing the maximum takeoff weight of its two A330 models. The manufacturer plans to offer the A330-300 and A330-200 in 242-ton variants, giving the aircraft an additional 500 nm and 350 nm range, respectively, over the current A330 portfolio.

The changes come on top of increases announced at this year’s Farnborough air show. At the time, Airbus revealed plans to go from 235 tons to 240 tons for the A330-300 and from 238 to 240 tons for the smaller and already longer-range A330-200.

The new option will be available from 2015. Airbus says the 240-ton option likely will be superseded by the latest iteration. To allow for the added fuel capacity in the A330-300, Airbus is activating the center fuel tank for the first time. Using it has been standard already on the A330-200. Airbus says the improvements will enable airlines to fly the A330-300 on longer-range routes, such as Kuala Lumpur to Paris and Frankfurt, which should satisfy Malaysia Airlines, which has been seeking more range on the A330. Activating the center fuel tank on the A330-300 raises the fuel capacity of the type from the current 97,530 liters to 139,090 liters.

According to Airbus, there are no structural modifications needed beyond those that have been in the works for the 240-ton version, which will remain an option. For the center fuel tank, which has previously been sealed on the A330-300, pumps and an inerting system will be installed that will be identical to the one used on the A330-200. When Airbus launched the 240-ton variant in Farnborough, it did not foresee the use of the center fuel tank.

The modifications include limited changes to the wing structure, a load-alleviation design and movement of the ailerons to compensate for higher loads during turbulence. This enables Airbus to leave the wing essentially unchanged because the higher expected loads are tempered by the new design.

Airbus also has analyzed the wing’s structural margins and has been able to build on work for the A330-200F. An aerodynamic improvement package will provide 1% less fuel burn, and Airbus expects engine makers to achieve another 1% reduction. The inboard slat has been reshaped and the flap fairings shortened, but Airbus will not use new A320-style winglets, or “sharklets,” because that would have required significant changes to the wing.

Airbus for years has been developing performance and range improvements for the A330. This has caused the A330-300 to evolve from a medium-haul aircraft into one that now is able to fly most of the long sectors between Europe and North America; the current operational limits, however, keep the A330 from serving the longer intercontinental flights from Asia.

The new 242-ton A330-300 will have a 6,100-nm range at full passenger load, compared with 3,900 nm for the initial 212-ton version built from 1994. That first generation aircraft covered 65% of the Boeing 777-200ER markets because of its much-reduced range, but the latest upgrade will increase this to 94% from 2015.

The updated 242-ton variant also will be able to serve 91% of all existing long-haul markets out of London Heathrow Airport. Airbus has received 613 firm orders for the A330-300, of which 426 have been delivered, while the A330-200 has 577 firm orders and 476 deliveries. The -300 continues to outsell the smaller -200, with 58 orders received for the -300 in 2012, compared with 11 for the -200. Airbus has delivered 32 -200s and 42 -300s so far this year.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

The House of Representatives Tuesday in Abuja commended the Aviation Minister, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah for her giant strides in transforming the Aviation sector in Nigeria, saying the Ministry's capital budget performance for 2012 fiscal year ranks amongst the best in the country.

Chairperson of the House Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha who made the position of the House known during the 2013 Budget defence by the ministry yesterday, said after inspecting the reconstruction and remodelling works of airport terminals across the country, the House was very satisfied with the quality of work and pace of transformation of the sector since the minister assumed office a little over a year ago'.

"The  aviation Ministry surpassed other ministries in terms of capital budget implementation for the 2012 fiscal year. The transformation of our airport terminals by the minister is phenomenal and highly commendable. We want to thank the Honourable Minister for taking the bull by the horns in the rehabilitation of airport infrastructure across the country, especially the toilets which are now a delight to all airport users", the Chairperson declared.

Onyejeocha called for the early and improved implementation of the 2013 Appropriation Act, which she believes will be passed into law by the National Assembly before the end of the year, assuring that the Speaker, the Leadership and the entire members of the House are, and will continue to be solidly behind the Minister in her dream to to leave of legacy of visible and tangible transformation of the sector.

"The Speaker, the Leadership and the entire members of the House are very happy with the work you are doing in the sector. We assure you of our continued cooperation and support because we all have the interest of the sector at heart. We also believe the growth and development of the Nigerian economy is also tied to the growth and development of the aviation sector. The economy will not perform well if the aviation sector fails to do well, so we want the sector to be rated as the first in terms of its contribution to the national economy", the Chairperson stated.

She however insisted that the high tempo of development and transformation of the sector witnessed in 2013 must be improved upon and sustained throughout the 2013 capital budget implementation.

"Keep doing what you are doing and remain focused. We are here for you, we will ensure that the aviation sector will not lack anything that is needed for its continued transformation. The Speaker and the National Assembly assures you that we are solidly behind you and will give you all necessary support and cooperation in order to enable you perform better in the coming year", the Chairperson declared.

In her brief remarks, Aviation Minister Oduah thanked the leadership and members of the National Assembly for the support and cooperation given to the ministry since she came on board, stressing that little or nothing could have been achieved without their solid backing and encouragement.

She reiterated the fact that the aviation sector is pivotal to the economic growth of the nation, and assured that she and her team in the Ministry, working in concert with the National Assembly as one familiy will not disappoint the nation. "We can assure you that we will strive to accomplish and surpass our achievements in 2012 next year", she stated.

She stated that with 66 per cent of the ministry's capital vote released so far, the Ministry has implemented and utilised 65 per cent. she said the ministry hopes to complete the second phase of the remodelling projects by the second quarter of 2013'

The Minister, who said the theme of the 2013 budget in the ministry is " Facilities and Infrastructural development and upgrade", declared that greater attention would be focused on the rehabilitation of safety infrastructure like airfield lighting, fire hydrants, landing instruments, navigational aids, security, amongst others in 2013.

Although she lamented that the the budget provision is insufficient to tackle all the deficiencies in the sector, the Ministry would however work within the envelop provided to continue the transformation drive in the sector.



Joe Obi
SA (Media) to the Hon. Minister 

House of Reps give Aviation Minister 'THUMBS-UP', insist tempo of development must be sustained in 2013.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The House of Representatives Tuesday in Abuja commended the Aviation Minister, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah for her giant strides in transforming the Aviation sector in Nigeria, saying the Ministry's capital budget performance for 2012 fiscal year ranks amongst the best in the country.

Chairperson of the House Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha who made the position of the House known during the 2013 Budget defence by the ministry yesterday, said after inspecting the reconstruction and remodelling works of airport terminals across the country, the House was very satisfied with the quality of work and pace of transformation of the sector since the minister assumed office a little over a year ago'.

"The  aviation Ministry surpassed other ministries in terms of capital budget implementation for the 2012 fiscal year. The transformation of our airport terminals by the minister is phenomenal and highly commendable. We want to thank the Honourable Minister for taking the bull by the horns in the rehabilitation of airport infrastructure across the country, especially the toilets which are now a delight to all airport users", the Chairperson declared.

Onyejeocha called for the early and improved implementation of the 2013 Appropriation Act, which she believes will be passed into law by the National Assembly before the end of the year, assuring that the Speaker, the Leadership and the entire members of the House are, and will continue to be solidly behind the Minister in her dream to to leave of legacy of visible and tangible transformation of the sector.

"The Speaker, the Leadership and the entire members of the House are very happy with the work you are doing in the sector. We assure you of our continued cooperation and support because we all have the interest of the sector at heart. We also believe the growth and development of the Nigerian economy is also tied to the growth and development of the aviation sector. The economy will not perform well if the aviation sector fails to do well, so we want the sector to be rated as the first in terms of its contribution to the national economy", the Chairperson stated.

She however insisted that the high tempo of development and transformation of the sector witnessed in 2013 must be improved upon and sustained throughout the 2013 capital budget implementation.

"Keep doing what you are doing and remain focused. We are here for you, we will ensure that the aviation sector will not lack anything that is needed for its continued transformation. The Speaker and the National Assembly assures you that we are solidly behind you and will give you all necessary support and cooperation in order to enable you perform better in the coming year", the Chairperson declared.

In her brief remarks, Aviation Minister Oduah thanked the leadership and members of the National Assembly for the support and cooperation given to the ministry since she came on board, stressing that little or nothing could have been achieved without their solid backing and encouragement.

She reiterated the fact that the aviation sector is pivotal to the economic growth of the nation, and assured that she and her team in the Ministry, working in concert with the National Assembly as one familiy will not disappoint the nation. "We can assure you that we will strive to accomplish and surpass our achievements in 2012 next year", she stated.

She stated that with 66 per cent of the ministry's capital vote released so far, the Ministry has implemented and utilised 65 per cent. she said the ministry hopes to complete the second phase of the remodelling projects by the second quarter of 2013'

The Minister, who said the theme of the 2013 budget in the ministry is " Facilities and Infrastructural development and upgrade", declared that greater attention would be focused on the rehabilitation of safety infrastructure like airfield lighting, fire hydrants, landing instruments, navigational aids, security, amongst others in 2013.

Although she lamented that the the budget provision is insufficient to tackle all the deficiencies in the sector, the Ministry would however work within the envelop provided to continue the transformation drive in the sector.



Joe Obi
SA (Media) to the Hon. Minister 

Wednesday 28 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Swissport International, the world’s leading provider of ground services to the aviation sector, has signed an agreement with the new African low-cost carrier- fastjet under which it will provide ground services throughout the airline’s network.

fastjet, Africa’s first pan-continental low-cost carrier (LCC), is set to launch operations later this month in Tanzania’s domestic market, with flights from its Dar Es Salaam base to Kilimanjaro and Mwanza, and quickly expand its route network, flying the continent of Africa from north to south and east to west over the next few years.

Through an exclusive partnership agreement Swissport will supply a variety of airport services, be responsible for service delivery and support supply chain growth throughout the fastjet network.
Juan Jose Andres Alvez, Swissport’s Executive Vice President of Ground Handling for Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa, commented: “Swissport has a huge amount of experience in LCC handling in Europe and we look forward to assisting fastjet in building up this model in Africa, supported by our knowledge and processes.

This partnership includes all of the logistics challenges involved in setting up a network of ground handling operations and management systems, representing a new type of relationship between service provider and airline and offering a great opportunity for Swissport to continue to build its network in Africa in partnership with fastjet.

fastjet Chief Executive Officer Ed Winter commented: “Swissport has a world-leading reputation and track record for providing high quality ground services to airlines around the world, fastjet is creating a pan-continental African airline offering international standards of safety, quality, security and reliability and it is therefore essential for us to have a handling partner that gives these qualities top priority and one that also matches our ambitious growth plans for Africa.”

Swissport International Ltd. provides ground services for around 116 million passengers and 3.5 million tonnes of cargo a year (the latter using 105 warehouses with a total floor area of over 420,000 square metres) on behalf of some 650 client-companies in the aviation sector. With a workforce of around 39,000 personnel, Swissport is active at 195 stations in 38 countries on five continents, and generated consolidated operating revenue of approximately CHF 2.0 billion. www.swissport.com

Swissport To Offer Services To fastjet.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Swissport International, the world’s leading provider of ground services to the aviation sector, has signed an agreement with the new African low-cost carrier- fastjet under which it will provide ground services throughout the airline’s network.

fastjet, Africa’s first pan-continental low-cost carrier (LCC), is set to launch operations later this month in Tanzania’s domestic market, with flights from its Dar Es Salaam base to Kilimanjaro and Mwanza, and quickly expand its route network, flying the continent of Africa from north to south and east to west over the next few years.

Through an exclusive partnership agreement Swissport will supply a variety of airport services, be responsible for service delivery and support supply chain growth throughout the fastjet network.
Juan Jose Andres Alvez, Swissport’s Executive Vice President of Ground Handling for Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa, commented: “Swissport has a huge amount of experience in LCC handling in Europe and we look forward to assisting fastjet in building up this model in Africa, supported by our knowledge and processes.

This partnership includes all of the logistics challenges involved in setting up a network of ground handling operations and management systems, representing a new type of relationship between service provider and airline and offering a great opportunity for Swissport to continue to build its network in Africa in partnership with fastjet.

fastjet Chief Executive Officer Ed Winter commented: “Swissport has a world-leading reputation and track record for providing high quality ground services to airlines around the world, fastjet is creating a pan-continental African airline offering international standards of safety, quality, security and reliability and it is therefore essential for us to have a handling partner that gives these qualities top priority and one that also matches our ambitious growth plans for Africa.”

Swissport International Ltd. provides ground services for around 116 million passengers and 3.5 million tonnes of cargo a year (the latter using 105 warehouses with a total floor area of over 420,000 square metres) on behalf of some 650 client-companies in the aviation sector. With a workforce of around 39,000 personnel, Swissport is active at 195 stations in 38 countries on five continents, and generated consolidated operating revenue of approximately CHF 2.0 billion. www.swissport.com


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Corporate travel managers again rated Delta Air Lines number one, in this year's Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey. The airline ranked first among all carriers in key categories including: Value of Relationships with Account Managers and Sales Representatives; Distribution Channels; Complaint/Problem Resolution; Quality of Customer Service; and Networks, Airline Partnerships and Frequencies. 

Delta also earned the distinction of being the first carrier in the survey's 15-year history to be rated No. 1 in all 10 categories. 

"This award reflects how our most important corporate customers continue to embrace the $3 billion we are investing to improve our flying experience while highlighting the hard work and service commitment of our 80,000 employees," said Ed Bastian, Delta's President. 

"Recognition from our most frequent customers is the most important recognition we can receive. To finish first a second year in a row and in all 10 service delivery categories is a great acknowledgement of our efforts to build a better airline." 

"We offer our congratulations to Delta Air Lines for their strong showing across all the categories we measured in our latest Annual Airline Survey. Their efforts over the past several years are clearly resonating within the business travel community," said Tim Reid, vp-Group publisher, The BTN Group.

Through 2013, Delta is investing more than $3 billion in airport facilities, global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customer improvements include a $1.2 billion facility renovation at New York-JFK's Terminal 4, a $160 million project to modernize LaGuardia's Terminals C and D, as well as updating the Los Angeles airport jet bridges, baggage claim hall and ticket counter areas and other facility improvements in Salt Lake City and Seattle.

On-board Delta is adding full flat-bed seats to all BusinessElite cabins and enhancing in-flight food, beverages, entertainment and amenities. In 2012 Delta expanded its popular Economy Comfort seating and completed Wi-Fi access to its fleet of more than 800 two-class aircraft. Beginning in 2013, customers will benefit from additional productivity and entertainment options when the airline adds streaming content to all two-class aircraft and satellite based Wi-Fi to its fleet of international wide-body aircraft. 

In and around the airport, Delta is updating technology on delta.com and at kiosks to enhance the purchase experience and improve transaction times. The airline also is adding recharging stations at more than the 30 airports, supplying power to customers' electronic devices. 
Operationally, Delta's on-time and completion factor rank among the industry's best, while its results in mishandled baggage and customer complaints have decreased 24 percent and 37 percent, respectively, compared to 2011. 

The annual Business Travel News survey is voted on by corporate travel managers who are key influences of business travel decisions. Participating airlines surveyed include American, Southwest, United and US Airways.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year. During the past year, Delta was named domestic "Airline of the Year" by the readers of Travel Weekly magazine, was named the "Top Tech-Friendly U.S. Airline" by PCWorld magazine for its innovation in technology, won the Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey and was the recipient of 12 Executive Travel Magazine Leading Edge Awards for U.S. airlines. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 313 destinations in 58 countries on six continents.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. 

Delta is investing more than $3 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.


Delta Earns Business Travel News Top Rating for 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Corporate travel managers again rated Delta Air Lines number one, in this year's Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey. The airline ranked first among all carriers in key categories including: Value of Relationships with Account Managers and Sales Representatives; Distribution Channels; Complaint/Problem Resolution; Quality of Customer Service; and Networks, Airline Partnerships and Frequencies. 

Delta also earned the distinction of being the first carrier in the survey's 15-year history to be rated No. 1 in all 10 categories. 

"This award reflects how our most important corporate customers continue to embrace the $3 billion we are investing to improve our flying experience while highlighting the hard work and service commitment of our 80,000 employees," said Ed Bastian, Delta's President. 

"Recognition from our most frequent customers is the most important recognition we can receive. To finish first a second year in a row and in all 10 service delivery categories is a great acknowledgement of our efforts to build a better airline." 

"We offer our congratulations to Delta Air Lines for their strong showing across all the categories we measured in our latest Annual Airline Survey. Their efforts over the past several years are clearly resonating within the business travel community," said Tim Reid, vp-Group publisher, The BTN Group.

Through 2013, Delta is investing more than $3 billion in airport facilities, global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customer improvements include a $1.2 billion facility renovation at New York-JFK's Terminal 4, a $160 million project to modernize LaGuardia's Terminals C and D, as well as updating the Los Angeles airport jet bridges, baggage claim hall and ticket counter areas and other facility improvements in Salt Lake City and Seattle.

On-board Delta is adding full flat-bed seats to all BusinessElite cabins and enhancing in-flight food, beverages, entertainment and amenities. In 2012 Delta expanded its popular Economy Comfort seating and completed Wi-Fi access to its fleet of more than 800 two-class aircraft. Beginning in 2013, customers will benefit from additional productivity and entertainment options when the airline adds streaming content to all two-class aircraft and satellite based Wi-Fi to its fleet of international wide-body aircraft. 

In and around the airport, Delta is updating technology on delta.com and at kiosks to enhance the purchase experience and improve transaction times. The airline also is adding recharging stations at more than the 30 airports, supplying power to customers' electronic devices. 
Operationally, Delta's on-time and completion factor rank among the industry's best, while its results in mishandled baggage and customer complaints have decreased 24 percent and 37 percent, respectively, compared to 2011. 

The annual Business Travel News survey is voted on by corporate travel managers who are key influences of business travel decisions. Participating airlines surveyed include American, Southwest, United and US Airways.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year. During the past year, Delta was named domestic "Airline of the Year" by the readers of Travel Weekly magazine, was named the "Top Tech-Friendly U.S. Airline" by PCWorld magazine for its innovation in technology, won the Business Travel News Annual Airline Survey and was the recipient of 12 Executive Travel Magazine Leading Edge Awards for U.S. airlines. With an industry-leading global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 313 destinations in 58 countries on six continents.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs 80,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more than 700 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and Alitalia. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 13,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, a world-class airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 50 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. 

Delta is investing more than $3 billion through 2013 in airport facilities and global products, services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.


Tuesday 27 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government and major aircraft manufacturer Embraer have began talks on a mutual development agreement to aid the acquisition of new aircrafts by domestic airlines in Nigeria.
Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. George Ureisi disclosed that this came as a result of preliminary talks opened last week, pointing out that the Federal Government was set to alter its strategy for the development of the aviation sector.


The talks which began on Wednesday 21 November 2012, were held on at the headquarters of Embraer in Brazil and was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Aviation led by Mr. George Ureisi, the Rector of NCAT, Capt.Chinyere Kalu and the Director, Air Transport Management in the Ministry, Engineer Hassan Musa, while the Embraer team was led by the 
Senior Vice President Opreations/Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Luis Carlos Affonso.


While relating the outcome of the talks, Ureisi highlighted the need for the use of proper equipment by domestic operators, hence the need for government to intervene directly in the acquisition of efficient aircrafts.


He emphasized that Embraer had a robust and effective low operating cost aircrafts suited for the Nigerian market, adding that once the needs of the domestic carriers are determined,  the company would manufacture equipment that will be custom-made for the  regions routes, expressing optimism in the partnership.


Speaking on behalf of Embraer, Luis Carlos Affonso said the company welcomes the opportunity to work, partner and collaborate with the government of Nigeria in its desire and determination to assist domestic  Carriers acquire new and more efficient fleet.
Both parties agreed to continue more specific and detailed discussions on the subject matter in the days and weeks to come. Highlights of the visit was a tour of the expansive Embraer manufacturing plant.


Joe Obi
SA (Media) to Aviation Minister 

FG, open talks with Embraer on Re-fleeting of Domestic Airlines.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government and major aircraft manufacturer Embraer have began talks on a mutual development agreement to aid the acquisition of new aircrafts by domestic airlines in Nigeria.
Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. George Ureisi disclosed that this came as a result of preliminary talks opened last week, pointing out that the Federal Government was set to alter its strategy for the development of the aviation sector.


The talks which began on Wednesday 21 November 2012, were held on at the headquarters of Embraer in Brazil and was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Aviation led by Mr. George Ureisi, the Rector of NCAT, Capt.Chinyere Kalu and the Director, Air Transport Management in the Ministry, Engineer Hassan Musa, while the Embraer team was led by the 
Senior Vice President Opreations/Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Luis Carlos Affonso.


While relating the outcome of the talks, Ureisi highlighted the need for the use of proper equipment by domestic operators, hence the need for government to intervene directly in the acquisition of efficient aircrafts.


He emphasized that Embraer had a robust and effective low operating cost aircrafts suited for the Nigerian market, adding that once the needs of the domestic carriers are determined,  the company would manufacture equipment that will be custom-made for the  regions routes, expressing optimism in the partnership.


Speaking on behalf of Embraer, Luis Carlos Affonso said the company welcomes the opportunity to work, partner and collaborate with the government of Nigeria in its desire and determination to assist domestic  Carriers acquire new and more efficient fleet.
Both parties agreed to continue more specific and detailed discussions on the subject matter in the days and weeks to come. Highlights of the visit was a tour of the expansive Embraer manufacturing plant.


Joe Obi
SA (Media) to Aviation Minister 


Sky Watch Nigeria.

JetBlue Airways Corporation today announces the appointment of James E. Leddy to the position of Senior Vice President Treasurer, effectively immediately. In this role, Mr. Leddy will be responsible for traditional treasury functions as well as risk, credit card services, commercial real estate and supply chain.

Mr. Leddy will report to Mark Powers, the airline's Executive Vice President and CFO and will lead the design and execution of the financial strategy that supports and is aligned with JetBlue's corporate strategy. 

"Jim brings a wealth of financial acumen as well as rich experience and passion for leading complex global teams," said JetBlue's Mark Powers. "We are thrilled to welcome an individual of Jim's caliber to the team and we know his contributions will play a pivotal role as we continue to focus on creating value for our crewmembers and our shareholders."

Mr. Leddy was previously Senior Vice President of Treasury and Cash Management at NBCUniversal. Prior to that, he held leadership positions at General Electric, Measurisk and the Industrial Bank of Japan.  Mr. Leddy received his M.B.A in Finance and Management of Technology from The University of Connecticut and holds a Bachelors Degree in Economics from Fordham University.

"As JetBlue continues to grow, this is truly an exciting time to join the company," said Mr. Leddy. "This new role provides a wonderful opportunity for me to add value to the finance team through my technical skills amassed at several global companies as well as allowing me to develop talent and lead strong teams."

JetBlue Names James E. Leddy Senior VP Treasurer.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

JetBlue Airways Corporation today announces the appointment of James E. Leddy to the position of Senior Vice President Treasurer, effectively immediately. In this role, Mr. Leddy will be responsible for traditional treasury functions as well as risk, credit card services, commercial real estate and supply chain.

Mr. Leddy will report to Mark Powers, the airline's Executive Vice President and CFO and will lead the design and execution of the financial strategy that supports and is aligned with JetBlue's corporate strategy. 

"Jim brings a wealth of financial acumen as well as rich experience and passion for leading complex global teams," said JetBlue's Mark Powers. "We are thrilled to welcome an individual of Jim's caliber to the team and we know his contributions will play a pivotal role as we continue to focus on creating value for our crewmembers and our shareholders."

Mr. Leddy was previously Senior Vice President of Treasury and Cash Management at NBCUniversal. Prior to that, he held leadership positions at General Electric, Measurisk and the Industrial Bank of Japan.  Mr. Leddy received his M.B.A in Finance and Management of Technology from The University of Connecticut and holds a Bachelors Degree in Economics from Fordham University.

"As JetBlue continues to grow, this is truly an exciting time to join the company," said Mr. Leddy. "This new role provides a wonderful opportunity for me to add value to the finance team through my technical skills amassed at several global companies as well as allowing me to develop talent and lead strong teams."
Aviation Nigeria

All aboard! Snowball Express will soon be on its way. Beginning Friday, Nov. 30, more than 1,700 children and spouses of fallen military will once again travel to North Texas, arriving via American Airlines and American Eagle flights for Snowball Express – an all-expense-paid visit to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The seventh annual event runs through Tuesday, Dec. 4. Snowball Express is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization established in 2006 with the mission of bringing hope, joy and new memories to children who have lost a parent on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001.

As the official airline of Snowball Express, American and American Eagle are donating nine chartered aircraft and providing free travel on selected commercial flights for families traveling from 54 cities across the United States, as well as international locations including Puerto Rico and Guam.

"All of us at American Airlines and American Eagle are humbled by the sacrifices these families have made for our great nation," said Tom Horton, American's Chairman and CEO. "Snowball Express honors the memory of the men and women who so bravely served our country. It is a privilege for us, especially our hundreds of volunteers, to once again bring these families to Dallas/Fort Worth – our hometown – for a few days of fun and the opportunity to find new friendships and memories."

The Snowball Express flights are made possible by the American Airlines Kids In NeedSM program, which provides worldwide support for children and their families, and for organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for children. Airfare for some families will be provided by the nonprofit organization Air Compassion for Veterans, which is funded in part through a partnership with Fuel Smart, American's employee-led fuel conservation program. In keeping with its continued work to support families of the fallen, the USO (United Service Organizations) Warrior and Family Care provided a grant for this year's Snowball Express.

"While many of us look forward to the holiday season with excitement and anticipation of time with family and friends, the holidays can be difficult for those who have lost a loved one – especially the families of fallen military," said Francis "Buck" Kern, Executive Director and CEO of Snowball Express. "We're thankful for the support from American Airlines to help bring joy and healing to these children and spouses whose lives have been forever changed by the loss of their loved one."

People from American and American Eagle will host special send-off receptions at each of the departure airports. Festivities will include holiday decorations at gates and onboard aircraft, refreshments and entertainment, and even visits from Santa Claus.

Upon arrival at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Snowball Express families will be greeted at "American Candy Land," which will feature decorated gates that will include holiday crafts, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and colorful treats in keeping with the theme.

Among this year's Snowball Express events are a visit to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for the annual tree-lighting celebration; participation in the Dallas Children's Parade; a trip to Six Flags Over Texas; and a private concert by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band at Billy Bob's, the famed Texas honkytonk in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

To learn more about Snowball Express sponsorship opportunities, or to view a complete list of corporate and nonprofit sponsors, visit SnowballExpress.org. Additional information can also be found at AA.com/JoinUs.

American Airlines And Snowball Express To Bring Families Of Fallen Military To North Texas.

Aviation Nigeria

All aboard! Snowball Express will soon be on its way. Beginning Friday, Nov. 30, more than 1,700 children and spouses of fallen military will once again travel to North Texas, arriving via American Airlines and American Eagle flights for Snowball Express – an all-expense-paid visit to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The seventh annual event runs through Tuesday, Dec. 4. Snowball Express is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization established in 2006 with the mission of bringing hope, joy and new memories to children who have lost a parent on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001.

As the official airline of Snowball Express, American and American Eagle are donating nine chartered aircraft and providing free travel on selected commercial flights for families traveling from 54 cities across the United States, as well as international locations including Puerto Rico and Guam.

"All of us at American Airlines and American Eagle are humbled by the sacrifices these families have made for our great nation," said Tom Horton, American's Chairman and CEO. "Snowball Express honors the memory of the men and women who so bravely served our country. It is a privilege for us, especially our hundreds of volunteers, to once again bring these families to Dallas/Fort Worth – our hometown – for a few days of fun and the opportunity to find new friendships and memories."

The Snowball Express flights are made possible by the American Airlines Kids In NeedSM program, which provides worldwide support for children and their families, and for organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for children. Airfare for some families will be provided by the nonprofit organization Air Compassion for Veterans, which is funded in part through a partnership with Fuel Smart, American's employee-led fuel conservation program. In keeping with its continued work to support families of the fallen, the USO (United Service Organizations) Warrior and Family Care provided a grant for this year's Snowball Express.

"While many of us look forward to the holiday season with excitement and anticipation of time with family and friends, the holidays can be difficult for those who have lost a loved one – especially the families of fallen military," said Francis "Buck" Kern, Executive Director and CEO of Snowball Express. "We're thankful for the support from American Airlines to help bring joy and healing to these children and spouses whose lives have been forever changed by the loss of their loved one."

People from American and American Eagle will host special send-off receptions at each of the departure airports. Festivities will include holiday decorations at gates and onboard aircraft, refreshments and entertainment, and even visits from Santa Claus.

Upon arrival at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Snowball Express families will be greeted at "American Candy Land," which will feature decorated gates that will include holiday crafts, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and colorful treats in keeping with the theme.

Among this year's Snowball Express events are a visit to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for the annual tree-lighting celebration; participation in the Dallas Children's Parade; a trip to Six Flags Over Texas; and a private concert by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band at Billy Bob's, the famed Texas honkytonk in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

To learn more about Snowball Express sponsorship opportunities, or to view a complete list of corporate and nonprofit sponsors, visit SnowballExpress.org. Additional information can also be found at AA.com/JoinUs.

Sky Watch Nigeria.
By Lateef Lawal.


What defines Etihad Airways and makes it different from other airlines?

Since its launch in 2003, Etihad Airways has grown faster than any other full-service airline in commercial aviation history. Today the airline employs over 10,000 staff and operates a fleet of 67 aircraft that fly to 85 passenger and cargo destinations in 56 countries in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America.

At the same time, we have created a brand and a service offering that is the envy of the industry. Built on the mandate from our shareholder to be ‘best in class’, we have worked from the ground up in redefining industry standards in customer service, drawing inspiration from the very best five-star hospitality organisations around the world.

Our holistic approach to quality and service is designed to ensure that every customer enjoys an inspirational experience at every touch point, from booking their ticket through to their arrival at their final destination.

This approach has proved highly successful. As a result, we have received widespread recognition from our peers within the aviation industry and amongst the public, as one of the world’s leading airlines.

A point further reinforced by the countless awards and recognition the airline has received, including the title of World’s Leading Airline, at the WorldTravel Awards, which it has won consecutively for the past three years.

Why do you consider Nigeria a good market for Etihad Airways?

Nigeria is a particularly important market for Etihad Airways in many ways. As the national airline of the UAE, we appreciate the strong commercial and business interests between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, which is showing impressive growth and is now stronger than ever.
A significant portion of the business community in Nigeria, which has the largest population in Africa and the seventh largest in the world, is made up of traders who regularly travel to markets in the UAE, the Indian subcontinent and Asia to source products and wares which they import back into Nigeria.

Government delegations frequently visit Asia for training courses and investment road shows and people who are studying in the UAE, Malaysia and India also benefit greatly from our route network and well timed schedules.


With the strategic location of its hub in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, and with a route network of 85 passenger and cargo destinations, many of which are based in North Asia and the Indian subcontinent, we are ideally positioned to support the growing demand for business and leisure travel between Lagos and many of the world’s popular and emerging destinations.


What offerings are you bringing to Nigeria that makes you feel you can survive competition?


Etihad Airways is committed to providing its passengers with an outstanding travel experience, with the delivery of quality products and services both on the ground and in the air.
Passengers can save time by checking in online up to 24 hours before departure by visiting our website, www.etihad.com, where they can choose their preferred seats and print their own boarding pass to present upon arrival at the check-in desk at the airport.
We also offer a complimentary chauffeur limousine service to our Pearl Business Class passengers at 28 destinations in 16 countries across our network, and in the UAE, our Coral Economy Class passengers can enjoy complimentary luxury coach transportation between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai or Al Ain.


Dining is an inspiring experience and our Pearl Business Class passengers may dine when they wish, choosing from extensive ‘à la carte’ or “Kitchen Anytime” menus.


Food and Beverage Managers, hired from leading establishments worldwide, are available to help guests select the right dish and the perfect accompaniment to suit their mood.


New culinary menus introduced every two months ensure that our regular passengers can enjoy alternative options on a regular basis.


Each in-flight menu is tailored to the route, typically including at least one dish inspired by the destination, one “Taste of Arabia” dish and one Western option.

The inspired service in Coral Economy Class includes a choice of three main meal options on longer flights, and hot and cold ‘Café’ services with a wide range of hot beverages from cappuccino to green tea on select flights.


To keep everyone entertained, the on-demand entertainment systems are available in a wide choice of languages, providing passengers with over 600 hours of movies, TV shows, music and interactive games, including a dedicated interface and programs for children.
With power points located at every seat, passengers can also recharge their laptops or mobile phone and connect personal devices to the system. Noise-cancelling headsets are also provided in all cabins.


Etihad Airways is also establishing full mobile connectivity aboard its aircraft and rollout will be completed across the fleet by mid-2014. Passengers will be able to use their mobile phones and smart-phones to send and receive calls, messages and emails and access Wi-Fi Internet through their personal devices.


Finally we have the airline’s award-winning loyalty program Etihad Guest, which enables members to accumulate Etihad Guest Miles on flights with Etihad Airways, as well as many of its global airline partners, and redeem them against flights and more than 3,800 non-flight rewards from over 250 partners on the Etihad Guest online Reward Shop.


Etihad Guest Miles can also convert to make cash payments at more than 30 million retail outlets worldwide with PointsPay - an unmatched loyalty proposition.


What has your experience been in the short while you have operated in Nigeria?


Etihad Airways started operations in Nigeria in July 2012 to a very positive reception.
Our passenger loads are strong and we are confident that this new route will continue to prove popular in servicing the considerable and growing flow of business and leisure travellers between Nigeria and key commercial and tourism destinations in the Middle East, North America, North Asia, and China.


How many Nigerians have you employed?


We currently employ 22 Nigerian members of staff who are involved in various activities across our local operation in Lagos. I am very happy with the team we have here and obviously will look to employ more people as our business continues to expand in Nigeria.

SOURCE: NigerianAviationNews.

Interview with the General Manager of Etihad Airways, Mr Maurice Phohleli .


Sky Watch Nigeria.
By Lateef Lawal.


What defines Etihad Airways and makes it different from other airlines?

Since its launch in 2003, Etihad Airways has grown faster than any other full-service airline in commercial aviation history. Today the airline employs over 10,000 staff and operates a fleet of 67 aircraft that fly to 85 passenger and cargo destinations in 56 countries in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America.

At the same time, we have created a brand and a service offering that is the envy of the industry. Built on the mandate from our shareholder to be ‘best in class’, we have worked from the ground up in redefining industry standards in customer service, drawing inspiration from the very best five-star hospitality organisations around the world.

Our holistic approach to quality and service is designed to ensure that every customer enjoys an inspirational experience at every touch point, from booking their ticket through to their arrival at their final destination.

This approach has proved highly successful. As a result, we have received widespread recognition from our peers within the aviation industry and amongst the public, as one of the world’s leading airlines.

A point further reinforced by the countless awards and recognition the airline has received, including the title of World’s Leading Airline, at the WorldTravel Awards, which it has won consecutively for the past three years.

Why do you consider Nigeria a good market for Etihad Airways?

Nigeria is a particularly important market for Etihad Airways in many ways. As the national airline of the UAE, we appreciate the strong commercial and business interests between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, which is showing impressive growth and is now stronger than ever.
A significant portion of the business community in Nigeria, which has the largest population in Africa and the seventh largest in the world, is made up of traders who regularly travel to markets in the UAE, the Indian subcontinent and Asia to source products and wares which they import back into Nigeria.

Government delegations frequently visit Asia for training courses and investment road shows and people who are studying in the UAE, Malaysia and India also benefit greatly from our route network and well timed schedules.


With the strategic location of its hub in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, and with a route network of 85 passenger and cargo destinations, many of which are based in North Asia and the Indian subcontinent, we are ideally positioned to support the growing demand for business and leisure travel between Lagos and many of the world’s popular and emerging destinations.


What offerings are you bringing to Nigeria that makes you feel you can survive competition?


Etihad Airways is committed to providing its passengers with an outstanding travel experience, with the delivery of quality products and services both on the ground and in the air.
Passengers can save time by checking in online up to 24 hours before departure by visiting our website, www.etihad.com, where they can choose their preferred seats and print their own boarding pass to present upon arrival at the check-in desk at the airport.
We also offer a complimentary chauffeur limousine service to our Pearl Business Class passengers at 28 destinations in 16 countries across our network, and in the UAE, our Coral Economy Class passengers can enjoy complimentary luxury coach transportation between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai or Al Ain.


Dining is an inspiring experience and our Pearl Business Class passengers may dine when they wish, choosing from extensive ‘à la carte’ or “Kitchen Anytime” menus.


Food and Beverage Managers, hired from leading establishments worldwide, are available to help guests select the right dish and the perfect accompaniment to suit their mood.


New culinary menus introduced every two months ensure that our regular passengers can enjoy alternative options on a regular basis.


Each in-flight menu is tailored to the route, typically including at least one dish inspired by the destination, one “Taste of Arabia” dish and one Western option.

The inspired service in Coral Economy Class includes a choice of three main meal options on longer flights, and hot and cold ‘Café’ services with a wide range of hot beverages from cappuccino to green tea on select flights.


To keep everyone entertained, the on-demand entertainment systems are available in a wide choice of languages, providing passengers with over 600 hours of movies, TV shows, music and interactive games, including a dedicated interface and programs for children.
With power points located at every seat, passengers can also recharge their laptops or mobile phone and connect personal devices to the system. Noise-cancelling headsets are also provided in all cabins.


Etihad Airways is also establishing full mobile connectivity aboard its aircraft and rollout will be completed across the fleet by mid-2014. Passengers will be able to use their mobile phones and smart-phones to send and receive calls, messages and emails and access Wi-Fi Internet through their personal devices.


Finally we have the airline’s award-winning loyalty program Etihad Guest, which enables members to accumulate Etihad Guest Miles on flights with Etihad Airways, as well as many of its global airline partners, and redeem them against flights and more than 3,800 non-flight rewards from over 250 partners on the Etihad Guest online Reward Shop.


Etihad Guest Miles can also convert to make cash payments at more than 30 million retail outlets worldwide with PointsPay - an unmatched loyalty proposition.


What has your experience been in the short while you have operated in Nigeria?


Etihad Airways started operations in Nigeria in July 2012 to a very positive reception.
Our passenger loads are strong and we are confident that this new route will continue to prove popular in servicing the considerable and growing flow of business and leisure travellers between Nigeria and key commercial and tourism destinations in the Middle East, North America, North Asia, and China.


How many Nigerians have you employed?


We currently employ 22 Nigerian members of staff who are involved in various activities across our local operation in Lagos. I am very happy with the team we have here and obviously will look to employ more people as our business continues to expand in Nigeria.

SOURCE: NigerianAviationNews.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

Officials of the Airport Committee Special Task Force operating at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport during the weekend seized $2,073,160 dollars and Saudi Arabian Riyal SAR20, 300 from two passengers.

The confisticated monies are were in the possession of two male travellers who failed to declare them at the departure area of ‘E’ Wing of the airport. One of the men identified as Mr. Talal Hammoud was with an with International passport with number A03599105. The other Mr. Hassan Rmaiti, is a staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) with Duty Card no: 25009.

Although there is still no clear information on where the travellers were headed before the arrest,  the undeclared funds were being carried in three bags.

There have been several attempts to launder money by passengers, and more recently unscrupulous agency staffs with a string of cases growing by the day. Resident and related security agencies and officers continue in the efforts to filter corrupt agency staffs.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area Comptroller at the Lagos Airport, Mr. Eporwei Edike Charles said the suspects and the funds have been transferred to the EFCC for further investigations.

MMIA Special Task Force seize over $2million and SAR20,300 undeclared funds.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Officials of the Airport Committee Special Task Force operating at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport during the weekend seized $2,073,160 dollars and Saudi Arabian Riyal SAR20, 300 from two passengers.

The confisticated monies are were in the possession of two male travellers who failed to declare them at the departure area of ‘E’ Wing of the airport. One of the men identified as Mr. Talal Hammoud was with an with International passport with number A03599105. The other Mr. Hassan Rmaiti, is a staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) with Duty Card no: 25009.

Although there is still no clear information on where the travellers were headed before the arrest,  the undeclared funds were being carried in three bags.

There have been several attempts to launder money by passengers, and more recently unscrupulous agency staffs with a string of cases growing by the day. Resident and related security agencies and officers continue in the efforts to filter corrupt agency staffs.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area Comptroller at the Lagos Airport, Mr. Eporwei Edike Charles said the suspects and the funds have been transferred to the EFCC for further investigations.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

The establishment of a Cargo Directorate by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) will enhance cargo business across the airports in the country, this was the view of the chairman of Domestic Airport Cargo Agent Association (DACAA) Mr Emmanuel Odi.

Mr Odia said the determination of FAAN to construct cargo terminal will not only boost the activities of the cargo agents, but will ensure sanity in the cargo business at the airports.

“I think it is one of the best things that can happen to the aviation industry. It means that there is no cargo terminal in Nigeria that will not have a cargo department and it will enhance our business as cargo agents. The moment the directorate picks up and there is a section for cargo spinning, it will boost our business”

Mr Odia expressed displeasure over the reduction in the number  of domestic airlines which he regretted has negatively affected their business and has forced most cargo owners to transport their goods by road.
He noted that,:” A lot of our customers are going by road because there have not been aircraft and it has really affected our business and it has not been easy but we have no option”

He however expressed delight with the commencement of flight operations by MedView airlines adding, that cargo business will boom again when two or more airlines start operations again.

According to Mr Odia, the association few months ago on daily average never lifted cargo less than  between 20 and 30 tones  adding that with IRS and Aero Contractors flying, cargo lifting has drastically dropped saying, that there was no way they can meet their target.

On the issue of security threat posed by the uncoordinated activities of some touts, he said it was the reason why they asked for a means of recognition in order to curb the activities of miscreants among them in the guise of cargo agents.


Cargo Directorate will enhance business - DACAA Chaiman.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

The establishment of a Cargo Directorate by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) will enhance cargo business across the airports in the country, this was the view of the chairman of Domestic Airport Cargo Agent Association (DACAA) Mr Emmanuel Odi.

Mr Odia said the determination of FAAN to construct cargo terminal will not only boost the activities of the cargo agents, but will ensure sanity in the cargo business at the airports.

“I think it is one of the best things that can happen to the aviation industry. It means that there is no cargo terminal in Nigeria that will not have a cargo department and it will enhance our business as cargo agents. The moment the directorate picks up and there is a section for cargo spinning, it will boost our business”

Mr Odia expressed displeasure over the reduction in the number  of domestic airlines which he regretted has negatively affected their business and has forced most cargo owners to transport their goods by road.
He noted that,:” A lot of our customers are going by road because there have not been aircraft and it has really affected our business and it has not been easy but we have no option”

He however expressed delight with the commencement of flight operations by MedView airlines adding, that cargo business will boom again when two or more airlines start operations again.

According to Mr Odia, the association few months ago on daily average never lifted cargo less than  between 20 and 30 tones  adding that with IRS and Aero Contractors flying, cargo lifting has drastically dropped saying, that there was no way they can meet their target.

On the issue of security threat posed by the uncoordinated activities of some touts, he said it was the reason why they asked for a means of recognition in order to curb the activities of miscreants among them in the guise of cargo agents.


Monday 26 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government has selected the Yakubu Gowon Airport, Jos as a cargo terminal for the export of perishable goods.

This disclosure was made by the General Manager, Corporate Communications of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mr. Yakubu Datti on Sunday 25 November 2012  while inspecting the ongoing renovation and remodelling at the airport.

The Yakubu Gowon Airport is among the 11 airport projects currently in their first stage of the 22 airports to undergo re-modelling nationwide.

Mr Datti explained that the designation of the airport as a cargo terminal was part of the aviation master plan to ensure that perishable goods were exported directly overseas, so as to boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

In addition, Datti added that there were higher expectations of a boost in the sector which are all to follow the recent removal of duties on spare parts, remodelling, and re-construction works on airports in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kano.

According to Datti, a provision is also being considered for alternative cashflow through exportation of products beyond subsistence agriculture, adding that countries like Israel make millions of dollars from exporting rose flowers every year.

Yakubu Gowon Airport Jos, designated as perishable goods Cargo Terminal.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Federal Government has selected the Yakubu Gowon Airport, Jos as a cargo terminal for the export of perishable goods.

This disclosure was made by the General Manager, Corporate Communications of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Mr. Yakubu Datti on Sunday 25 November 2012  while inspecting the ongoing renovation and remodelling at the airport.

The Yakubu Gowon Airport is among the 11 airport projects currently in their first stage of the 22 airports to undergo re-modelling nationwide.

Mr Datti explained that the designation of the airport as a cargo terminal was part of the aviation master plan to ensure that perishable goods were exported directly overseas, so as to boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

In addition, Datti added that there were higher expectations of a boost in the sector which are all to follow the recent removal of duties on spare parts, remodelling, and re-construction works on airports in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kano.

According to Datti, a provision is also being considered for alternative cashflow through exportation of products beyond subsistence agriculture, adding that countries like Israel make millions of dollars from exporting rose flowers every year.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, (NAMA) at the weekend received  award for Effective and Efficient Service Delivery in the aviation industry and one of the most outstanding public institutions in Nigeria for the year 2011-2012.

The award which was given by the Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group (ISDMG) was held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja . The Agency was also given a trophy for its excellent performance in the industry as the second most outstanding public institution in Nigeria for the year 2011-2012. This award according to the organisers was based on the outcome of the votes of Nigerians between 2011-2012. 

The award was received on behalf of the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr Mazi Nnamdi Udoh by the General Manager, Finance, Mr. Segun  Agbolade. 

In his acceptance speech on behalf of the agency,Mr. Agbolade said the organisation was highly elated and honoured while promising  Nigerians that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)  “will strive hard to remain the best aviation navigation service provider (ANSP) in the world” adding that this “award will spur the agency to do more in ensuring air safety and excellence in the aviation industry in Nigeria”.

He thanked the Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group (ISDMG) for the honour given to the agency. Earlier in a welcome address ,the Executive Director of ISDMG, Dr. Chima Amadi said that the “integrity of the assessment was not anyway compromised by the fact that the institutions assessed picked the cost of assessment but in arriving at the point of awarding the institutions, ISDMG sent freedom of Information request to about 700 MDAs nationwide and from the responses gathered independently from the assessors of the group, we drew up the awardees”.

He also said that the votes of Nigerians counted in selecting the Public Institutions that were documented in their final report saying that “the fact that the drivers of the MDAs are Nigerians and not foreign consultants proved that only Nigerians can bring about the much vaunted dividends of democracy and the realization of the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan and vision 20:2020 programme of the present administration”.

The agency in the last 12 months had been inundated with more than 18 awards for high quality service delivery on air traffic services. 

At the award ceremony, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) was fully represented among whom were the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Clara Aliche; Mr.  Tunji Iyanda, GeneralManager, Planning and Research Statistics; Mrs. Matha Sule, General Manager, Human Resources;  Mr. Segun Agbolade, General Manager, Finance; Mr. Abdul Abubakar, Assistant General Manager, Abuja Liaison Office; Mr. Gabriel Akinlade-Daniel, Public Affairs Officer; Mr. Okey Okeke, PA-GBC; Mr. Gbodi Ayorinde Michael, Head Final Accounts and Mr. Nwaobilor Chima, Head Budget & Vote Control.

NAMA Awarded with Effective and Efficient Service Delivery.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, (NAMA) at the weekend received  award for Effective and Efficient Service Delivery in the aviation industry and one of the most outstanding public institutions in Nigeria for the year 2011-2012.

The award which was given by the Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group (ISDMG) was held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja . The Agency was also given a trophy for its excellent performance in the industry as the second most outstanding public institution in Nigeria for the year 2011-2012. This award according to the organisers was based on the outcome of the votes of Nigerians between 2011-2012. 

The award was received on behalf of the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr Mazi Nnamdi Udoh by the General Manager, Finance, Mr. Segun  Agbolade. 

In his acceptance speech on behalf of the agency,Mr. Agbolade said the organisation was highly elated and honoured while promising  Nigerians that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)  “will strive hard to remain the best aviation navigation service provider (ANSP) in the world” adding that this “award will spur the agency to do more in ensuring air safety and excellence in the aviation industry in Nigeria”.

He thanked the Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group (ISDMG) for the honour given to the agency. Earlier in a welcome address ,the Executive Director of ISDMG, Dr. Chima Amadi said that the “integrity of the assessment was not anyway compromised by the fact that the institutions assessed picked the cost of assessment but in arriving at the point of awarding the institutions, ISDMG sent freedom of Information request to about 700 MDAs nationwide and from the responses gathered independently from the assessors of the group, we drew up the awardees”.

He also said that the votes of Nigerians counted in selecting the Public Institutions that were documented in their final report saying that “the fact that the drivers of the MDAs are Nigerians and not foreign consultants proved that only Nigerians can bring about the much vaunted dividends of democracy and the realization of the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan and vision 20:2020 programme of the present administration”.

The agency in the last 12 months had been inundated with more than 18 awards for high quality service delivery on air traffic services. 

At the award ceremony, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) was fully represented among whom were the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs. Clara Aliche; Mr.  Tunji Iyanda, GeneralManager, Planning and Research Statistics; Mrs. Matha Sule, General Manager, Human Resources;  Mr. Segun Agbolade, General Manager, Finance; Mr. Abdul Abubakar, Assistant General Manager, Abuja Liaison Office; Mr. Gabriel Akinlade-Daniel, Public Affairs Officer; Mr. Okey Okeke, PA-GBC; Mr. Gbodi Ayorinde Michael, Head Final Accounts and Mr. Nwaobilor Chima, Head Budget & Vote Control.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

Nigerian Airspace Management Agency(NAMA) has reiterated the completion of  the multi - billion naira Total Radar Coverage  of Nigeria (TRACON).

Officials of the Agency  told visiting members of  the Senate Committee on Aviation at the Lagos airport site of the new radar while inspecting projects /facilities ,saying that the project  has been completed and closed.

The Chairman of the Committee,Senator Hope Uzodinma had enquired from the technical staff  of the agency at the radar room  if the project had actually been completed.

The Director of Safety Electronics and Engineering Services,Engr.Ifeanyi Nnwakwo was emphatic in his response when he declared that "all the deliverables and the scope of the project have been delivered and completed by the foreign contractor-Thales ATM of France and the system is working at optimal level."

He told the Senators that the  system is characterized by some overlays like ADS-B which allows the radar to accommodate technology upgrade as new ones evolve.

The Senators who watched  live coverage of the airspace on  the new  radar system ,were  impressed by nwhat they saw but would want to know the scope of the maintenance contract with Thales and they were told that  the existing contract  comes with unlimited spares  and to lapse in the next two years having commenced three years ago.

On training,the committee was informed that more than 100 engineers had been trained on the various aspects of the radar system,adding that very soon ,maintenance would  be wholly Nigerian affairs .

TRACON was commissioned by Mr President on October18,2010 in Abuja and since then it has improved tremendously the quality of air  traffic services  in the country's airspace, recording more over flyers

NAMA reiterates completion of TRACON.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Nigerian Airspace Management Agency(NAMA) has reiterated the completion of  the multi - billion naira Total Radar Coverage  of Nigeria (TRACON).

Officials of the Agency  told visiting members of  the Senate Committee on Aviation at the Lagos airport site of the new radar while inspecting projects /facilities ,saying that the project  has been completed and closed.

The Chairman of the Committee,Senator Hope Uzodinma had enquired from the technical staff  of the agency at the radar room  if the project had actually been completed.

The Director of Safety Electronics and Engineering Services,Engr.Ifeanyi Nnwakwo was emphatic in his response when he declared that "all the deliverables and the scope of the project have been delivered and completed by the foreign contractor-Thales ATM of France and the system is working at optimal level."

He told the Senators that the  system is characterized by some overlays like ADS-B which allows the radar to accommodate technology upgrade as new ones evolve.

The Senators who watched  live coverage of the airspace on  the new  radar system ,were  impressed by nwhat they saw but would want to know the scope of the maintenance contract with Thales and they were told that  the existing contract  comes with unlimited spares  and to lapse in the next two years having commenced three years ago.

On training,the committee was informed that more than 100 engineers had been trained on the various aspects of the radar system,adding that very soon ,maintenance would  be wholly Nigerian affairs .

TRACON was commissioned by Mr President on October18,2010 in Abuja and since then it has improved tremendously the quality of air  traffic services  in the country's airspace, recording more over flyers

Sunday 25 November 2012


By All Africa Editorial.

Nigerian government officials are fond of asking foreigners to help them do things that should be better done by competent Nigerians. And even when the foreigners appear ready to help, the government officials hardly show enough seriousness to win the former's confidence.

On Thursday, for instance, the CEO of British Airways (BA), Mr. Keith Williams, said the company would partner with the federal government to ensure it brings back the national carrier, Nigeria Airways. Lufthansa had offered to train Nigerians but it never received a list of those to be trained; the next move Nigeria's aviation minister Stella Oduah made was to terminate the MoU it signed with the German airline.

It is sad that we have to return to former colonial masters to rejuvenate the Nigeria Airways that was once the pride of the continent and the black race. Is it surprising that the BA chief is talking about partnership? Nigeria has been an important market for BA, which has been operating in the country since 1936. Why would a company that has been through fiscal turmoil lately want to "partner" with us?

Lufthansa's advice that a Nigerian carrier must develop from within and not from outside is very honest. We have an army of aeronautical engineers, pilots, cabin experts and aviation activists in the country.

At the height of its glory, Nigeria Airways was professionally managed and was respected for its courteous, customer-friendly crew and comfortable airplanes. Corruption, mismanagement and unethical practices later crippled the national carrier.

By the late 1990s, Nigeria Airways had become like a leper in a colony of airlines in the continent. Not only had it been used and dumped through the series of partnership and bilateral air service partnerships it entered into, Nigerians had been extorted by other airlines that were second-rated during Nigeria Airways' heyday.

Nigerians are now riled by smaller countries with lucrative airlines that signpost their national pride and business acumen across Africa and Asia.

All Nigeria needs to do is build its domestic and regional aviation industry, and interface and negotiate with others on favourable terms in tandem with the ongoing merger activities between world leading airlines.

Nigeria has the bargaining power of huge population, heavy domestic and international travel traffic and markets for the growth and sustenance of the national carrier. The ripple effect on job creation, trade flows and national pride cannot be overestimated.

It is not true that government has no business in business; were it so, public-private partnerships would have been a global anathema. In future, Nigeria may compromise its sovereignty by even awarding contracts for governance to outsiders.

Until then, however, government will do well to return to the drawing board: pull together boardroom gurus, professional aviation experts and managers in order to put Nigeria Airways back in the air

Nigeria: Bring Back Nigeria Airways


By All Africa Editorial.

Nigerian government officials are fond of asking foreigners to help them do things that should be better done by competent Nigerians. And even when the foreigners appear ready to help, the government officials hardly show enough seriousness to win the former's confidence.

On Thursday, for instance, the CEO of British Airways (BA), Mr. Keith Williams, said the company would partner with the federal government to ensure it brings back the national carrier, Nigeria Airways. Lufthansa had offered to train Nigerians but it never received a list of those to be trained; the next move Nigeria's aviation minister Stella Oduah made was to terminate the MoU it signed with the German airline.

It is sad that we have to return to former colonial masters to rejuvenate the Nigeria Airways that was once the pride of the continent and the black race. Is it surprising that the BA chief is talking about partnership? Nigeria has been an important market for BA, which has been operating in the country since 1936. Why would a company that has been through fiscal turmoil lately want to "partner" with us?

Lufthansa's advice that a Nigerian carrier must develop from within and not from outside is very honest. We have an army of aeronautical engineers, pilots, cabin experts and aviation activists in the country.

At the height of its glory, Nigeria Airways was professionally managed and was respected for its courteous, customer-friendly crew and comfortable airplanes. Corruption, mismanagement and unethical practices later crippled the national carrier.

By the late 1990s, Nigeria Airways had become like a leper in a colony of airlines in the continent. Not only had it been used and dumped through the series of partnership and bilateral air service partnerships it entered into, Nigerians had been extorted by other airlines that were second-rated during Nigeria Airways' heyday.

Nigerians are now riled by smaller countries with lucrative airlines that signpost their national pride and business acumen across Africa and Asia.

All Nigeria needs to do is build its domestic and regional aviation industry, and interface and negotiate with others on favourable terms in tandem with the ongoing merger activities between world leading airlines.

Nigeria has the bargaining power of huge population, heavy domestic and international travel traffic and markets for the growth and sustenance of the national carrier. The ripple effect on job creation, trade flows and national pride cannot be overestimated.

It is not true that government has no business in business; were it so, public-private partnerships would have been a global anathema. In future, Nigeria may compromise its sovereignty by even awarding contracts for governance to outsiders.

Until then, however, government will do well to return to the drawing board: pull together boardroom gurus, professional aviation experts and managers in order to put Nigeria Airways back in the air
Sky Watch Nigeria
By Shehu Abubakar

Aviation Minister Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah has said that her 16 months tenure as Minister of Aviation is rather a rescue mission of the aviation industry with the airports in the North benefiting more rather than executing an ethnic agenda as is being canvassed by a section of Nigerians.

Oduah who was apparently responding to public criticism that her tenure as aviation minister has favoured the transformation and development of airports located in the southern part of Nigeria over those in the North, said in her effort to transform all the airports in the country to modern ones, those in Kano and Kaduna benefitted more because she found them in dilapidated conditions than others.

Speaking through her Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Joe Obi, shortly after visiting the airports and Hajj camps in Kano and Kaduna accompanied by journalists, he said, “on assumption of office in July of 2011, Oduah rolled up her sleeves and hit the road, hopping from one airport to another to see for herself the extent of the legendary rot in the sector.

“From Abuja to Lagos, Kano to Calabar, Ilorin to Port Harcourt, Yola to Enugu, the experience was humbling and more than enough to make any man’s broad shoulders drop in resignation.

“The infrastructural rot and decay from one airport to another was overwhelming, a stark testimony to decades of criminal neglect by the very people who had been saddled with the responsibility of care for the public facilities. But rather than throw up her arms in self-pity, Oduah’s resolve to positively change the landscape of the aviation industry in Nigeria became more urgent, profound and unbending,” he said.

He said during the inspection/facility tour of the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano, the minister and members of her entourage could hardly stand the sight and stench oozing out of the Hajj terminal.

“As everyone hurried out of the facility, the minister wondered aloud how Nigerians, fellow citizens, our Muslim brothers and sisters could be made to suffer such indignity for days and weeks on end waiting at such inhumane conditions before being airlifted to Saudi Arabia to perform the Holy pilgrimage. Yet, we expect these same pilgrims, after enduring this hellish conditions to pray for us and our nation while out there. This is inhuman and unacceptable,” he said.

Mr. Obi said after the maiden tour of the minister to the airports, the first contract that she awarded was the rehabilitation of the Kaduna and Kano Hajj terminals and she ensured that they were the first projects that were completed and commissioned by her.

He said the rehabilitation work at the Sokoto Hajj terminal has commenced and is billed for commissioning sometime next year.

When asked to account for the multiple foreign loans collected by the ministry for remodeling, equipping and development of airports in the country, Mr. Obi said the first loan obtained by the Yar’adua/Jonathan administration is being used for the remodeling and equipping of the nation’s airports, including the other six at Port Harcourt, Enugu, Calabar and Murtala Mohammed International airports, as well as the Benin and Owerri airports.

He said the concessionary loan facility collected from the Chinese EXIM bank is used for the second phase of the reconstruction and remodeling programme which took off recently in the remaining 11 federally-owned airports across the country in addition to the five new international terminals to be built in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Enugu and Calabar from early next year.

“We are also not talking about 11 cargo/perishable terminals, about six of which will be sited at airports in the North,” he said.

When asked to comment on the alleged diversion of a cargo terminal meant for north-east region to Asaba in Delta State, Obi said it was not true.

“Nothing can be further from the truth as all originally designated cargo terminals, including those to be sited in the North remain where they are. The second, yet unfounded allegation was that the minister refused some foreign airlines landing rights into the Abuja and Kano International airports. The airlines in question are Emirates, Etihad, Turkish and Asky airlines,” he said.


North benefits more from airports remodeling – Oduah

Sky Watch Nigeria
By Shehu Abubakar

Aviation Minister Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah has said that her 16 months tenure as Minister of Aviation is rather a rescue mission of the aviation industry with the airports in the North benefiting more rather than executing an ethnic agenda as is being canvassed by a section of Nigerians.

Oduah who was apparently responding to public criticism that her tenure as aviation minister has favoured the transformation and development of airports located in the southern part of Nigeria over those in the North, said in her effort to transform all the airports in the country to modern ones, those in Kano and Kaduna benefitted more because she found them in dilapidated conditions than others.

Speaking through her Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Joe Obi, shortly after visiting the airports and Hajj camps in Kano and Kaduna accompanied by journalists, he said, “on assumption of office in July of 2011, Oduah rolled up her sleeves and hit the road, hopping from one airport to another to see for herself the extent of the legendary rot in the sector.

“From Abuja to Lagos, Kano to Calabar, Ilorin to Port Harcourt, Yola to Enugu, the experience was humbling and more than enough to make any man’s broad shoulders drop in resignation.

“The infrastructural rot and decay from one airport to another was overwhelming, a stark testimony to decades of criminal neglect by the very people who had been saddled with the responsibility of care for the public facilities. But rather than throw up her arms in self-pity, Oduah’s resolve to positively change the landscape of the aviation industry in Nigeria became more urgent, profound and unbending,” he said.

He said during the inspection/facility tour of the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano, the minister and members of her entourage could hardly stand the sight and stench oozing out of the Hajj terminal.

“As everyone hurried out of the facility, the minister wondered aloud how Nigerians, fellow citizens, our Muslim brothers and sisters could be made to suffer such indignity for days and weeks on end waiting at such inhumane conditions before being airlifted to Saudi Arabia to perform the Holy pilgrimage. Yet, we expect these same pilgrims, after enduring this hellish conditions to pray for us and our nation while out there. This is inhuman and unacceptable,” he said.

Mr. Obi said after the maiden tour of the minister to the airports, the first contract that she awarded was the rehabilitation of the Kaduna and Kano Hajj terminals and she ensured that they were the first projects that were completed and commissioned by her.

He said the rehabilitation work at the Sokoto Hajj terminal has commenced and is billed for commissioning sometime next year.

When asked to account for the multiple foreign loans collected by the ministry for remodeling, equipping and development of airports in the country, Mr. Obi said the first loan obtained by the Yar’adua/Jonathan administration is being used for the remodeling and equipping of the nation’s airports, including the other six at Port Harcourt, Enugu, Calabar and Murtala Mohammed International airports, as well as the Benin and Owerri airports.

He said the concessionary loan facility collected from the Chinese EXIM bank is used for the second phase of the reconstruction and remodeling programme which took off recently in the remaining 11 federally-owned airports across the country in addition to the five new international terminals to be built in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Enugu and Calabar from early next year.

“We are also not talking about 11 cargo/perishable terminals, about six of which will be sited at airports in the North,” he said.

When asked to comment on the alleged diversion of a cargo terminal meant for north-east region to Asaba in Delta State, Obi said it was not true.

“Nothing can be further from the truth as all originally designated cargo terminals, including those to be sited in the North remain where they are. The second, yet unfounded allegation was that the minister refused some foreign airlines landing rights into the Abuja and Kano International airports. The airlines in question are Emirates, Etihad, Turkish and Asky airlines,” he said.


Friday 23 November 2012



Sky Watch Nigeria

The Minister of Aviation, Mrs. Stella Oduah, has terminated the Memorandum of Association between the federal government and the German airline, Lufthansa. Consequently, the airline, yesterday suspended flights to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport,Abuja.

A letter dated 7th November, 2012 addressed to the Vice-President of Deutche Lufthansa, and signed by the Ministry of Aviation’s legal adviser, Bola Odugbesan, stated that the Minister of Aviation has terminated the agreement it entered into with the airline in November, 2008.

The letter, a copy of which was obtained by Peoples Daily, reads: “In accordance with the provisions of Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding entered into between the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Deutche Lufthansa Aktiengesellschaft (LH) on the 10th 0f November, 2008, the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria hereby terminates the aforementioned Memorandum of Understanding with immediate effect”.

Acknowledging the receipt of the termination letter, in a letter signed by the airlines’ Director of Network Planning and Hub Development Frankfurt, Sebestian Hollmier and Director, Corporate International Relations and Government Affairs, Andreas Bulling, the airline however stated that the said termination by the Nigerian government would become effective on 20th November, 2012 (yesterday).

It could be recalled that in May, Senate Committee on Aviation had ordered Lufthansa Airlines to pay to the Federal Government N2.198 billion ($14.8 million), being debt owed from non-payment of royalty to the Federal Government from its flight operations from 2009 to October 2011 or face sanctions.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Hope Uzodinma, who gave the directive  at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Senate Committee on Aviation said it was based upon discoveries that Lufthansa Airlines had violated its Bilateral Air Services Agreement, (BASA), with the Federal Ministry of Aviation in 2008.

Angered by what it discovered, the Uzodinma-led Senate committee ordered Lufthansa to pay N2.198 billion ($14.8 million) debt owed to the FG.  The order was issued less than a week after the foreign airlines were asked to also refund the billions of Naira allegedly held back in tax accruals to the federal government.

Uzodinma, while lamenting that Lufthansa took advantage of the Nigerian market to violate the agreement, ordered the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to ground the airline if it failed to pay the debt.

The directive was issued by the chairman after the committee heard that Lufthansa was flying 14 frequencies to the country instead of 4 passenger and 3 cargo flights allowed by the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

The committee was told that the former Aviation Minister, Babatunde Omotoba, gave a verbal approval to Lufthansa to be flying additional 7 frequencies and that Lufthansa has refused to pay an accumulated $14.8 million. The committee had thereafter summoned former Minister to appear before it over the violation of aviation laws by Lufthansa.

Uzodinma was angry that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Lufthansa in 2008 in which it agreed to train Nigerian Pilots and provide some equipment at the airports were discarded by the airline and it has also refused to pay its royalties.

The NCAA has claimed at a stakeholders’ meeting that Lufthansa suspended payment of royalties to Nigeria since 2009.

Uzodinma said, “As at 2009 to November 2011, we have an outstanding $14,833,000.00 and the invoices are here issued by NCAA. I want you to support NCAA, retrieve your letter so that they can receive their money because this is an entitlement of government.

“I think that as we call for the review of your MoU and the BASA, we ask Lufthansa to pay all monies due to government. It is unfortunate Lufthansa people are not here, they are quick at sending lawyers.”

According to the chairman, “As at 2009 to November 2011, we have an outstanding $14,833,000.00 and the invoices are here issued by NCAA. I want you to support NCAA, retrieve your letter so that they can receive their money because this is an entitlement of government.

“I think that as we call for the review of your MoU and the BASA, we ask Lufthansa to pay all monies due to government. It is unfortunate Lufthansa people are not here, they are quick at sending lawyers”.

“We have this huge market here that must be protected so when they go and have something convenient for them in Ghana and Togo that is not up to two local governments in Nigeria, you now use it as a model to implement policies in Nigeria and we lose money. This makes us look stupid before the international community.

“I think, as a matter of fact, you must join hands and protect the market which is our own treasure. So in my opinion, you should liaise with the NCAA and recover this money from Lufthansa. If it means grounding all the aircraft to ensure that our laws are obeyed, we will do it. We must develop the will as a people”, Uzodinma had stated.

However, all efforts to contact officials of Lufthansa Airline on the issue and to find out what will happen to those who have booked ahead did not yield any positive result.

Similarly, when our reporter contacted the NCAA spokesman, Mr.  Sam Adurogboye on the issue, he claimed not to be aware of the FG’s ban.

When contacted to comment on the issue, Special Assistant to the Aviation Minister on media, Mr. Joe Obi, said that based on what the MoU contained, any party to the agreement that is not benefiting from a signed MoU has the right to opt out, and since it has come to an end, there is no need of renewing it.

It could be recalled that the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had recently named Lufthansa airline as the best International carrier in Nigeria for the year 2011.

Aviation minister bans Lufthansa from MMIA and Abuja Airports.



Sky Watch Nigeria

The Minister of Aviation, Mrs. Stella Oduah, has terminated the Memorandum of Association between the federal government and the German airline, Lufthansa. Consequently, the airline, yesterday suspended flights to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport,Abuja.

A letter dated 7th November, 2012 addressed to the Vice-President of Deutche Lufthansa, and signed by the Ministry of Aviation’s legal adviser, Bola Odugbesan, stated that the Minister of Aviation has terminated the agreement it entered into with the airline in November, 2008.

The letter, a copy of which was obtained by Peoples Daily, reads: “In accordance with the provisions of Article 5 of the Memorandum of Understanding entered into between the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Deutche Lufthansa Aktiengesellschaft (LH) on the 10th 0f November, 2008, the Honourable Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria hereby terminates the aforementioned Memorandum of Understanding with immediate effect”.

Acknowledging the receipt of the termination letter, in a letter signed by the airlines’ Director of Network Planning and Hub Development Frankfurt, Sebestian Hollmier and Director, Corporate International Relations and Government Affairs, Andreas Bulling, the airline however stated that the said termination by the Nigerian government would become effective on 20th November, 2012 (yesterday).

It could be recalled that in May, Senate Committee on Aviation had ordered Lufthansa Airlines to pay to the Federal Government N2.198 billion ($14.8 million), being debt owed from non-payment of royalty to the Federal Government from its flight operations from 2009 to October 2011 or face sanctions.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Hope Uzodinma, who gave the directive  at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Senate Committee on Aviation said it was based upon discoveries that Lufthansa Airlines had violated its Bilateral Air Services Agreement, (BASA), with the Federal Ministry of Aviation in 2008.

Angered by what it discovered, the Uzodinma-led Senate committee ordered Lufthansa to pay N2.198 billion ($14.8 million) debt owed to the FG.  The order was issued less than a week after the foreign airlines were asked to also refund the billions of Naira allegedly held back in tax accruals to the federal government.

Uzodinma, while lamenting that Lufthansa took advantage of the Nigerian market to violate the agreement, ordered the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to ground the airline if it failed to pay the debt.

The directive was issued by the chairman after the committee heard that Lufthansa was flying 14 frequencies to the country instead of 4 passenger and 3 cargo flights allowed by the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA).

The committee was told that the former Aviation Minister, Babatunde Omotoba, gave a verbal approval to Lufthansa to be flying additional 7 frequencies and that Lufthansa has refused to pay an accumulated $14.8 million. The committee had thereafter summoned former Minister to appear before it over the violation of aviation laws by Lufthansa.

Uzodinma was angry that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Lufthansa in 2008 in which it agreed to train Nigerian Pilots and provide some equipment at the airports were discarded by the airline and it has also refused to pay its royalties.

The NCAA has claimed at a stakeholders’ meeting that Lufthansa suspended payment of royalties to Nigeria since 2009.

Uzodinma said, “As at 2009 to November 2011, we have an outstanding $14,833,000.00 and the invoices are here issued by NCAA. I want you to support NCAA, retrieve your letter so that they can receive their money because this is an entitlement of government.

“I think that as we call for the review of your MoU and the BASA, we ask Lufthansa to pay all monies due to government. It is unfortunate Lufthansa people are not here, they are quick at sending lawyers.”

According to the chairman, “As at 2009 to November 2011, we have an outstanding $14,833,000.00 and the invoices are here issued by NCAA. I want you to support NCAA, retrieve your letter so that they can receive their money because this is an entitlement of government.

“I think that as we call for the review of your MoU and the BASA, we ask Lufthansa to pay all monies due to government. It is unfortunate Lufthansa people are not here, they are quick at sending lawyers”.

“We have this huge market here that must be protected so when they go and have something convenient for them in Ghana and Togo that is not up to two local governments in Nigeria, you now use it as a model to implement policies in Nigeria and we lose money. This makes us look stupid before the international community.

“I think, as a matter of fact, you must join hands and protect the market which is our own treasure. So in my opinion, you should liaise with the NCAA and recover this money from Lufthansa. If it means grounding all the aircraft to ensure that our laws are obeyed, we will do it. We must develop the will as a people”, Uzodinma had stated.

However, all efforts to contact officials of Lufthansa Airline on the issue and to find out what will happen to those who have booked ahead did not yield any positive result.

Similarly, when our reporter contacted the NCAA spokesman, Mr.  Sam Adurogboye on the issue, he claimed not to be aware of the FG’s ban.

When contacted to comment on the issue, Special Assistant to the Aviation Minister on media, Mr. Joe Obi, said that based on what the MoU contained, any party to the agreement that is not benefiting from a signed MoU has the right to opt out, and since it has come to an end, there is no need of renewing it.

It could be recalled that the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had recently named Lufthansa airline as the best International carrier in Nigeria for the year 2011.
Sky Watch Nigeria
(By Lateef Lawal)

Skyway Aviation Handling Company(SAHCOL) has scaled through the Safety Audit for Ground Operation of the International Air Transport Association’s(IATA)-ISAGO.

At a brief ceremony at IATA’s regional office at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos,yesterday, the Area Manager, South West Africa, Funke Adeyemi presented the ISAGO Certificate to the Managing Director of SAHCOL, Mr Olu Owolabi.

In her remark, Adeyemi noted that SAHCOL was the second ground handling company that has passed the ISAGO certification in the sub-region, adding that it was a giant stride not only for SAHCOL but also for Nigeria.

The Managing Director of SAHCOL, Mr Owolabi in his response said the management and staff of the company were happy and grateful for the certification and the organisation would not disappoint IATA and its various clients in its service delivery.

He disclosed that aside from the present certification, the company was working toward ensuring that its training school also scaled through IATA Certification very soon.

SAHCOL bags IATA’s ISAGO Certification.

Sky Watch Nigeria
(By Lateef Lawal)

Skyway Aviation Handling Company(SAHCOL) has scaled through the Safety Audit for Ground Operation of the International Air Transport Association’s(IATA)-ISAGO.

At a brief ceremony at IATA’s regional office at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos,yesterday, the Area Manager, South West Africa, Funke Adeyemi presented the ISAGO Certificate to the Managing Director of SAHCOL, Mr Olu Owolabi.

In her remark, Adeyemi noted that SAHCOL was the second ground handling company that has passed the ISAGO certification in the sub-region, adding that it was a giant stride not only for SAHCOL but also for Nigeria.

The Managing Director of SAHCOL, Mr Owolabi in his response said the management and staff of the company were happy and grateful for the certification and the organisation would not disappoint IATA and its various clients in its service delivery.

He disclosed that aside from the present certification, the company was working toward ensuring that its training school also scaled through IATA Certification very soon.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Chief Executive Officer of British Airways (BA), Mr. Keith Williams, yesterday  offered to partner the Federal Government to help it develop the country’s aviation sector and its transformation agenda.

Williams stated this while fielding questions from journalists after a closed door meeting with the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He described Nigeria as an important market for British Airways, saying the company had operated in Nigeria for 76 years.

“The transformation programme has to grow the economy and British Airways is an airline that supports the growth of that economy through air travels. So, as the Nigeria’s economy grows, British Airways will grow with Nigeria."

“British Airways has served Nigeria now for 76 years and we get a great partnership with Nigeria which has been a long one and an important one and it will always continue to be an important one and the British Airways supports that,” He said.

According to Mr Keith, Nigeria has huge domestic and international markets for the growth of aviation industry and BA will explore the market for the general good of Nigeria and airline. “Nigeria is a huge important country with a huge population. It has got important trade flows and the airlines need to support those important trade flows either through Nigerian airlines or International airlines,” Williams said.

He expressed satisfaction with the way and manner the aviation sector was being managed in Nigeria. He, however, said that Nigeria needed to build its domestic and regional aviation industry. Williams described the ongoing merger activities between world leading airlines as a welcome development for the global growth of the aviation industry.

British Airways to Develop Nigerian Aviation Sector


Sky Watch Nigeria.

The Chief Executive Officer of British Airways (BA), Mr. Keith Williams, yesterday  offered to partner the Federal Government to help it develop the country’s aviation sector and its transformation agenda.

Williams stated this while fielding questions from journalists after a closed door meeting with the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He described Nigeria as an important market for British Airways, saying the company had operated in Nigeria for 76 years.

“The transformation programme has to grow the economy and British Airways is an airline that supports the growth of that economy through air travels. So, as the Nigeria’s economy grows, British Airways will grow with Nigeria."

“British Airways has served Nigeria now for 76 years and we get a great partnership with Nigeria which has been a long one and an important one and it will always continue to be an important one and the British Airways supports that,” He said.

According to Mr Keith, Nigeria has huge domestic and international markets for the growth of aviation industry and BA will explore the market for the general good of Nigeria and airline. “Nigeria is a huge important country with a huge population. It has got important trade flows and the airlines need to support those important trade flows either through Nigerian airlines or International airlines,” Williams said.

He expressed satisfaction with the way and manner the aviation sector was being managed in Nigeria. He, however, said that Nigeria needed to build its domestic and regional aviation industry. Williams described the ongoing merger activities between world leading airlines as a welcome development for the global growth of the aviation industry.

Wednesday 21 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

US Airways Flight Attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), today voted 94 percent for strike authorization.  Flight Attendants are calling on management to finish the US Airways/America West merger with a single contract for all US Airways Flight Attendants. Today AFA members made clear what they are willing to do to push management to negotiate a contract that can be ratified.

"US Airways Flight Attendants are determined to do whatever it takes to get our long overdue contract," stated Roger Holmin and Deborah Volpe, presidents for AFA representing Flight Attendants for pre-merger US Airways and America West, respectively. "Parker and his team of negotiators have failed to address the issues that Flight Attendants believe are paramount for a single contract. Seven years after the supposed merger of America West and US Airways this management hasn't gotten it done.  That means pre-merger America West and US Airways Flight Attendants still don't work together.  We may not fly together, but today we've made clear that we will walk out together if Parker pushes this to a strike deadline."

"We don't want to strike.  We want to work for a successful airline – but the airline will never be successful when its frontline workers are hurting.  Profits are soaring but Flight Attendants still shoulder the sacrifices forced through bankruptcy a decade ago as well as disparate, industry-low pay of a first contract from 1999.  It's a black eye for US Airways and no foundation for a new marriage with American.  Parker knows exactly what needs to be done in order to reach an agreement Flight Attendants can ratify.  And today he also knows it could be CHAOS™ without finishing what he started with our merger first.  Contract now," said Holmin and Volpe.

If US Airways management fails to reach an agreement and the parties are released from mediation the National Mediation Board would start a 30-day cooling-off period. If no agreement is reached during the cooling-off period US Airways Flight Attendants would utilize AFA's trademarked CHAOS tactics to strike. CHAOS stands for Create Havoc Around Our System™ and includes intermittent strikes, targeted and called without warning to management or the traveling public.

Negotiations are under the jurisdiction of the National Mediation Board.  AFA is prepared to return to negotiations with a focused proposal that meets the primary concerns of Flight Attendants.  The economic improvements Flight Attendants expect are commensurate with their long-term contributions and dedication to US Airways.

The Association of Flight Attendants is the world's largest Flight Attendant union. Focused 100 percent on Flight Attendant issues, AFA has been the leader in advancing the Flight Attendant profession for 67 years. Serving as the voice for Flight Attendants in the workplace, in the aviation industry, in the media and on Capitol Hill, AFA has transformed the Flight Attendant profession by raising wages, benefits and working conditions.  Nearly 60,000 Flight Attendants come together to form AFA, part of the 700,000-member strong Communications Workers of America (CWA), AFL-CIO. Visit us at www.ourafa.org.

SOURCE Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA)

US Airways Flight Attendants Authorize Strike.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

US Airways Flight Attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), today voted 94 percent for strike authorization.  Flight Attendants are calling on management to finish the US Airways/America West merger with a single contract for all US Airways Flight Attendants. Today AFA members made clear what they are willing to do to push management to negotiate a contract that can be ratified.

"US Airways Flight Attendants are determined to do whatever it takes to get our long overdue contract," stated Roger Holmin and Deborah Volpe, presidents for AFA representing Flight Attendants for pre-merger US Airways and America West, respectively. "Parker and his team of negotiators have failed to address the issues that Flight Attendants believe are paramount for a single contract. Seven years after the supposed merger of America West and US Airways this management hasn't gotten it done.  That means pre-merger America West and US Airways Flight Attendants still don't work together.  We may not fly together, but today we've made clear that we will walk out together if Parker pushes this to a strike deadline."

"We don't want to strike.  We want to work for a successful airline – but the airline will never be successful when its frontline workers are hurting.  Profits are soaring but Flight Attendants still shoulder the sacrifices forced through bankruptcy a decade ago as well as disparate, industry-low pay of a first contract from 1999.  It's a black eye for US Airways and no foundation for a new marriage with American.  Parker knows exactly what needs to be done in order to reach an agreement Flight Attendants can ratify.  And today he also knows it could be CHAOS™ without finishing what he started with our merger first.  Contract now," said Holmin and Volpe.

If US Airways management fails to reach an agreement and the parties are released from mediation the National Mediation Board would start a 30-day cooling-off period. If no agreement is reached during the cooling-off period US Airways Flight Attendants would utilize AFA's trademarked CHAOS tactics to strike. CHAOS stands for Create Havoc Around Our System™ and includes intermittent strikes, targeted and called without warning to management or the traveling public.

Negotiations are under the jurisdiction of the National Mediation Board.  AFA is prepared to return to negotiations with a focused proposal that meets the primary concerns of Flight Attendants.  The economic improvements Flight Attendants expect are commensurate with their long-term contributions and dedication to US Airways.

The Association of Flight Attendants is the world's largest Flight Attendant union. Focused 100 percent on Flight Attendant issues, AFA has been the leader in advancing the Flight Attendant profession for 67 years. Serving as the voice for Flight Attendants in the workplace, in the aviation industry, in the media and on Capitol Hill, AFA has transformed the Flight Attendant profession by raising wages, benefits and working conditions.  Nearly 60,000 Flight Attendants come together to form AFA, part of the 700,000-member strong Communications Workers of America (CWA), AFL-CIO. Visit us at www.ourafa.org.

SOURCE Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA)

Sky Watch Nigeria.

Boeing (NYSE: BA) Commercial Airplanes Executives Pat Shanahan and Larry Loftis will participate in an investor event hosted by RBC Capital Markets on Monday, Nov. 26 at 12:00 p.m. E.T.

Shanahan, senior vice president and general manager, Airplane Programs, and Loftis, vice president and general manager, 787 Program, will provide status on production of the 787 Dreamliner.

Individuals in the U.S. who wish to listen to the conference call should dial 1-800 602-4090. International listeners should dial +1-212-231-0008. The reservation number for the call is 21601995. The presentation will be available simultaneously online at https://cc.callinfo.com/r/1a1fsabnwdq02 during the call.

A replay of the call will be available through Monday, Dec. 3 by dialing 1-800 558-5253 in the U.S. and +1-416-626-4100 from international locations.

Contact: Communications (312) 544-2002

SOURCE Boeing

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Executives to Speak on RBC Capital Markets Investor Conference Call Nov. 26


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Boeing (NYSE: BA) Commercial Airplanes Executives Pat Shanahan and Larry Loftis will participate in an investor event hosted by RBC Capital Markets on Monday, Nov. 26 at 12:00 p.m. E.T.

Shanahan, senior vice president and general manager, Airplane Programs, and Loftis, vice president and general manager, 787 Program, will provide status on production of the 787 Dreamliner.

Individuals in the U.S. who wish to listen to the conference call should dial 1-800 602-4090. International listeners should dial +1-212-231-0008. The reservation number for the call is 21601995. The presentation will be available simultaneously online at https://cc.callinfo.com/r/1a1fsabnwdq02 during the call.

A replay of the call will be available through Monday, Dec. 3 by dialing 1-800 558-5253 in the U.S. and +1-416-626-4100 from international locations.

Contact: Communications (312) 544-2002

SOURCE Boeing

Sky Watch Nigeria.

US Airways today announced it has been awarded operating slots to inaugurate daily, non-stop service between its Charlotte, N.C. hub and London's preferred business airport, Heathrow, beginning in March 2013. US Airways will operate the service between Charlotte and London Heathrow with Airbus A330 aircraft that features Envoy, the airline's international business class. Customers traveling in Envoy will experience the remarkably comfortable and private Envoy Suite equipped with an adjustable seat that reclines into a fully flat bed. The Envoy Suite also features personal in-flight entertainment and a 110-volt universal power outlet. Specific schedule and fare details will be released at a later date.  
"We are thrilled to make this announcement and look forward to starting service between Heathrow and Charlotte in March," said US Airways Chairman and CEO Doug Parker. "This new service will augment our existing trans-Atlantic network and provide more choices for customers in markets up and down the east coast.

"Today's news would not be possible without the support of several groups, including the European Union to which we are grateful for this opportunity. Also, we'd like to thank Secretary LaHood and his aviation team at the U.S. Department of Transportation, members of the North Carolina and South Carolina delegations, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx, Charlotte Douglas International Airport Director Jerry Orr and other key stakeholders for their support in our efforts to secure the new service."

The new service from Charlotte, N.C. will supplement the airline's existing daily service between its international gateway in Philadelphia and London Heathrow.

The flight will originate in Miami, offering customers in South Florida convenient one-stop service to London via the airline's Charlotte hub.

SOURCE: US Airways.

US Airways Awarded New London Heathrow Route


Sky Watch Nigeria.

US Airways today announced it has been awarded operating slots to inaugurate daily, non-stop service between its Charlotte, N.C. hub and London's preferred business airport, Heathrow, beginning in March 2013. US Airways will operate the service between Charlotte and London Heathrow with Airbus A330 aircraft that features Envoy, the airline's international business class. Customers traveling in Envoy will experience the remarkably comfortable and private Envoy Suite equipped with an adjustable seat that reclines into a fully flat bed. The Envoy Suite also features personal in-flight entertainment and a 110-volt universal power outlet. Specific schedule and fare details will be released at a later date.  
"We are thrilled to make this announcement and look forward to starting service between Heathrow and Charlotte in March," said US Airways Chairman and CEO Doug Parker. "This new service will augment our existing trans-Atlantic network and provide more choices for customers in markets up and down the east coast.

"Today's news would not be possible without the support of several groups, including the European Union to which we are grateful for this opportunity. Also, we'd like to thank Secretary LaHood and his aviation team at the U.S. Department of Transportation, members of the North Carolina and South Carolina delegations, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx, Charlotte Douglas International Airport Director Jerry Orr and other key stakeholders for their support in our efforts to secure the new service."

The new service from Charlotte, N.C. will supplement the airline's existing daily service between its international gateway in Philadelphia and London Heathrow.

The flight will originate in Miami, offering customers in South Florida convenient one-stop service to London via the airline's Charlotte hub.

SOURCE: US Airways.

Sky Watch Nigeria.

Asky Airlines has added Bangui to its two-weekly Lomé-Lagos-Douala routing. The Togolese airline now operates the following direct services from/to Nigeria:

From Lagos:

KP34 Lagos-Douala-Bangui 16:15-17:50 / 18:35-20:40 (Thursday and Sunday)
KP35 Lagos-Lomé 12:25-12:30 (Monday and Friday)
KP40 Lagos-Libreville 1610-18:15 (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday)
KP41 Lagos-Lomé 12:40-12:30 (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday)
From Abuja:

KP32 Abuja-Niamey 17:20-18:50 (Thursday and Sunday)
KP33 Abuja-Lomé 11:35-12:05 (Monday and Friday)
Other (newly established) West African airlines, such as Air Côte d’Ivoire, Fly540, Gambia Bird Airlines, Senegal Airlines, and Starbow Airlines, have all expressed their intention to commence flights to Nigeria too.

SOURCE: Aviation in Nigeria Blog

Asky expands services from Lagos.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

Asky Airlines has added Bangui to its two-weekly Lomé-Lagos-Douala routing. The Togolese airline now operates the following direct services from/to Nigeria:

From Lagos:

KP34 Lagos-Douala-Bangui 16:15-17:50 / 18:35-20:40 (Thursday and Sunday)
KP35 Lagos-Lomé 12:25-12:30 (Monday and Friday)
KP40 Lagos-Libreville 1610-18:15 (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday)
KP41 Lagos-Lomé 12:40-12:30 (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday)
From Abuja:

KP32 Abuja-Niamey 17:20-18:50 (Thursday and Sunday)
KP33 Abuja-Lomé 11:35-12:05 (Monday and Friday)
Other (newly established) West African airlines, such as Air Côte d’Ivoire, Fly540, Gambia Bird Airlines, Senegal Airlines, and Starbow Airlines, have all expressed their intention to commence flights to Nigeria too.

SOURCE: Aviation in Nigeria Blog

Tuesday 20 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU), the airline that listens to its customers, is taking transparency to new heights with the launch of ThinkUp, a campaign where customers can speak up on a multitude of products and services. For the launch of this platform, JetBlue is asking customers for their ideas about what its new tablet experience should look like.

From 19 November 2012 through Dec. 2, 2012, customers can submit their ideas for what features should be included in the airline's new tablet app by visiting Facebook.com/JetBlue and clicking on the ThinkUp tab. All submissions will be vetted by JetBlue and a public vote will commence for the top five favorite ideas on Dec. 10 through Dec. 17, across six categories: Educational, Fun, Ticketing, Functional, Loyalty and Other.

Each of the five grand prize winners will win travel on JetBlue for a year in the form of two travel certificates each month for a year, with each certificate good for the roundtrip base fare of a JetBlue flight that month.  Plus, the winning ideas may be included into the development planning of JetBlue's new tablet app in early 2013. 

"ThinkUp is the next phase in our ongoing integration of customer feedback into the development of our products and services. We're pleased to open up our tablet app research to the public for a truly transparent process," said Mike Stromer, JetBlue's vice president of customer connections marketing. "We're excited to see what new app features come out of this and reward those with the most popular ideas with a year of travel."

A leader in the digital airline space, JetBlue recently celebrated its one millionth iPhone app download, and introduced its new app for Android. The new innovation comes on the heels of the airline's digital refresh in early 2012, which included a redesigned jetblue.com and mobile site, mobile.jetblue.com. 

JetBlue Airways takes customer feedback into all new product and service offerings. A panel composed of customers and crewmembers provides regular opinions on preview products and key findings are integrated into the rollout of new offerings. The airline that listens also encourages a personal dialogue with its engaged social audiences and incorporates feedback via those channels into its existing policies and procedures, altering when necessary to continue to provide excellence in customer service.

About JetBlue Airways
   
JetBlue is New York's Hometown Airline™ with other focus cities in Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Orlando and San Juan. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue offers the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch) as well as super-spacious Even More Space seats. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Visit www.jetblue.com/promise for details. JetBlue serves 74 cities with 750 daily flights and plans to launch service to Providence, Rhode Island on Nov. 29, 2012 and Charleston, South Carolina and Albuquerque, New Mexico in early 2013. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information call +1 800-538-2583 (TTY/TDD +1 800-336-5530), or visit www.jetblue.com .

Visit Facebook.com/JetBlue today through Dec. 2, 2012 to submit ideas for the airline's new mobile app. Top 30 ideas selected by JetBlue will be put to a public vote Dec. 10 through Dec. 17, 2012, and the top 5 most popular ideas will win a year of flights on JetBlue (a) --

(a) NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. ONLY OPEN TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES & D.C., 18 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Enter Contest by: 12/2/12 at 11:59 p.m. ET. For Official Rules and prize descriptions, visit https://d3hok70xjqsuiy.cloudfront.net/assets/prod/25214/CustomerIdeaContestTerms_1353088022.pdf. Sponsor: JetBlue Airways Corporation, 27-01 Queens Plaza North, Long Island City, New York 11101.

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

JetBlue Airways Calls All Customers to Help Design Next Tablet App in New ThinkUp Campaign.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU), the airline that listens to its customers, is taking transparency to new heights with the launch of ThinkUp, a campaign where customers can speak up on a multitude of products and services. For the launch of this platform, JetBlue is asking customers for their ideas about what its new tablet experience should look like.

From 19 November 2012 through Dec. 2, 2012, customers can submit their ideas for what features should be included in the airline's new tablet app by visiting Facebook.com/JetBlue and clicking on the ThinkUp tab. All submissions will be vetted by JetBlue and a public vote will commence for the top five favorite ideas on Dec. 10 through Dec. 17, across six categories: Educational, Fun, Ticketing, Functional, Loyalty and Other.

Each of the five grand prize winners will win travel on JetBlue for a year in the form of two travel certificates each month for a year, with each certificate good for the roundtrip base fare of a JetBlue flight that month.  Plus, the winning ideas may be included into the development planning of JetBlue's new tablet app in early 2013. 

"ThinkUp is the next phase in our ongoing integration of customer feedback into the development of our products and services. We're pleased to open up our tablet app research to the public for a truly transparent process," said Mike Stromer, JetBlue's vice president of customer connections marketing. "We're excited to see what new app features come out of this and reward those with the most popular ideas with a year of travel."

A leader in the digital airline space, JetBlue recently celebrated its one millionth iPhone app download, and introduced its new app for Android. The new innovation comes on the heels of the airline's digital refresh in early 2012, which included a redesigned jetblue.com and mobile site, mobile.jetblue.com. 

JetBlue Airways takes customer feedback into all new product and service offerings. A panel composed of customers and crewmembers provides regular opinions on preview products and key findings are integrated into the rollout of new offerings. The airline that listens also encourages a personal dialogue with its engaged social audiences and incorporates feedback via those channels into its existing policies and procedures, altering when necessary to continue to provide excellence in customer service.

About JetBlue Airways
   
JetBlue is New York's Hometown Airline™ with other focus cities in Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Orlando and San Juan. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue offers the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch) as well as super-spacious Even More Space seats. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Visit www.jetblue.com/promise for details. JetBlue serves 74 cities with 750 daily flights and plans to launch service to Providence, Rhode Island on Nov. 29, 2012 and Charleston, South Carolina and Albuquerque, New Mexico in early 2013. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information call +1 800-538-2583 (TTY/TDD +1 800-336-5530), or visit www.jetblue.com .

Visit Facebook.com/JetBlue today through Dec. 2, 2012 to submit ideas for the airline's new mobile app. Top 30 ideas selected by JetBlue will be put to a public vote Dec. 10 through Dec. 17, 2012, and the top 5 most popular ideas will win a year of flights on JetBlue (a) --

(a) NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. ONLY OPEN TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES & D.C., 18 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Enter Contest by: 12/2/12 at 11:59 p.m. ET. For Official Rules and prize descriptions, visit https://d3hok70xjqsuiy.cloudfront.net/assets/prod/25214/CustomerIdeaContestTerms_1353088022.pdf. Sponsor: JetBlue Airways Corporation, 27-01 Queens Plaza North, Long Island City, New York 11101.

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

Monday 19 November 2012


Sky Watch Nigeria.

In recent months, wild guesses have been made in the Nigerian press about the number of private and corporate jets based in Nigeria and/or owned by Nigerians. The NCAA will not provide the accurate numbers, but a list of identified active private and business jets is provided below. The list is not complete and might not be entirely accurate, but it does show that the numbers circulating in the press are slightly exaggerated.

Aircraft on the Nigerian register:

Boeing 737-700/BBJ (5N-FGT) – Nigerian Air Force
Dassault Falcon 7X (5N-FGU) – Nigerian Air Force
Dassault Falcon 7X (5N-FGV) – Nigerian Air Force
Gulfstream G550 (5N-FGW) – Nigerian Air Force
Gulfstream GV (5N-FGS) – Nigerian Air Force
Cessna Citation II (NAF 050) – Nigerian Air Force
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (5N-RSG) – Rivers State Government
Embraer EMB145LR (5N-BJM) – Bauchi State Government / Associated Aviation
Embraer EMB145EU (5N-BOZ) – Taraba State Government / Air Taraba / OAS Helicopters
Cessna Citation XLS (5N-HAR) – Nigeria Police
Cessna 525C CitationJet CJ4 (5N-DIA) – Nigeria Customs Service
HS 125-700 (5N-AVK) – Nigerian Airspace Management Agency
Hawker 4000 (5N-NOC) – Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
BAe 125-800 (5N-NPC) – Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
Hawker 800A (5N-BNE) – King Airline
Hawker 800A (5N-BMR) – King Airline
Hawker 800XP (5N-BNM) – SkyJet Aviation
Learjet 45 (5N-BLW) – Associated Aviation / Hangar8
BAe 125-700 (5N-BFC) – Associated Aviation
BAe 125-700 (5N-DAO) – Associated Aviation
Hawker 800XP (5N-JMA) – Arik Air
Hawker 800XP (5N-JMB) – Arik Air
Learjet 45XR (5N-LDM) – MaxAir
Gulfstream GIV (5N-BOD) – SkyBird Air
Cessna 560XLS Citation Excel (5N-BJS) – Pan African Airlines
Cessna 560XLS Citation Excel (5N-BOQ) – Pan African Airlines
Learjet 45 (5N-DAL) – Dana Air
Learjet 60 (5N-???) – Caverton Helicopters
BAe 125-600 (5N-EMA) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air – stored at Lagos
Hawker 800A (5N-QTS) – S. Iwuajoku / Quits Aviation
Hawker 800XP (5N-IZY) – A. Izinyon / Izy Air
Cessna 550 Citation Bravo (5N-IZZ) – Izy Air
BAe 125-700 (5N-BEX) – A. Dangote
BAe 125-1000 (5N-DGN) – A. Dangote
Gulfstream GII (5N-BGV) – R. Okorocha – for sale
Gulfstream GIV (5N-PZE) – A. Eze / Oranto Oil / Triax Airlines
Hawker 800 (5N-BMT) – Ocean and Marine
BAe 125-800 (5N-BOO) – unidentified – stored
Dassault Falcon 900 (5N-FGE) – unidentified – stored
Dassault Falcon 900 (5N-BOH) – unidentified – stored
Foreign registered aircraft based in Nigeria:

Bombardier Global 5000 (N565RS) – Rivers State Government
Gulfstream G450 (N224BH) – Akwa Ibom State Government
Hawker 800XP (N664AC) – TaK Aviation / TaK Continental
Hawker 800XP (N500AZ) – Azikel Air
Hawker 900XP (ZS-SME) – TopBrass Aviation
Hawker 900XP (ZS-KBS) – SkyJet Aviation
Hawker 4000 (N412TF) – SkyPower Express Airways
Cessna 525 CitationJet Cj1+ (N224BA) – SkyPower Express Airways
Cessna 680 Citation Sovereign (N2208L) – United Bank of Africa
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (M-ANGA) – MaxAir
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (ZS-LRK) – SkyJet Aviation
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (ZS-UBS) – SkyJet Aviation
Learjet 45XR (ZS-KAA) – SkyJet Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 604 (VP-BJM) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VP-CNA) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VQ-BJA) – A. Johnson
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VP-CEO) – F. Alakija
Bombardier Global Express XRS (N104DA) – A. Dangote
Learjet 45 (N104DN) – A. Dangote
Bombardier Challenger 300 (VQ-BMJ) – Executive Jets Services – for sale
Bombardier Challenger 300 (3B-NGT) – F. Otedola / Executive Jets Services / OSA Aviation – for sale
Bombardier Challenger 605 (3B-RGT) – Executive Jets Services / OSA Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 605 (N605GF) – J. Ibrahim / Global Fleet
Bombardier Challenger 605 (VP-CSI) – I. Sanomi / Gembrook Energy Projects
Dassault Falcon 50 (M-SNSS) – S. Tommey / Osmoserve Global
Hawker 900XP (N638MA) – M. Ada Ojo / Midway Airlines
Gulfstream GIV (N990EA) – E. Azudialu / Nestoil
Gulfstream GIV (N52MK) – M. Indimi / Oriental Energy Resources
Gulfstream GIV (M-PZPZ) – A. Eze / Triax Airlines
Gulfstream G550 (N169SD) – S. Dantata / MRS Group – for sale
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (N357TE) – I. Rabiu / BUA Group
Dassault Falcon 7X (VP-BGG) – Chagoury Group
Gulfstream GIV (N707EA) – E. Adeboye / Emmanuel Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 601 (N431CB) – A. Oritsejafor
Bombardier Challenger 604 (N664D) – D. Oyedepo / Dominion Air / World Mission Agency
Hawker 800XP (ZS-PCY) – Oando / Triton Aviation
Hawker 900XP (ZS-BOT) – Oando / Triton Aviation / Hangar8
Hawker 4000 (ZS-ZOT) – Oando / Triton Aviation / Hangar8
Bombardier Challenger 300 (VP-BJT) – possibly Empire Aviation Services / O. Smith – unidentified
Dassault Falcon 2000LX (M-DARA) – likely Dangote or Chagoury Group – unidentified
Hawker 900xp (ZS-ZGV) – unidentified
Hawker 800 (N????) – Africa Contracts and Equipment
Private and corporate propeller aircraft:

Beechcraft 1900D (5N-WCI) – Dominion Air
Beechcraft 1900D (5N-MPA) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-MPB) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 1900D (5N-MPN) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 350 King Air (N455SE) – TaK Aviation
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-FLS) – Julius Berger
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-FLY) – Julius Berger
Beechcraft 200 King Air (5N-IHS) – Wings Aviation – stored at Lanseria
Cessna 208A Caravan I Amphibian (5N-BIW) – Pan African Airlines
Pilatus PC-12 (5N-BNG) – Bala Ibn Na’Allah
Piper Aztec PA-23 (5N-BGZ) – Africa Contracts and Equipment / MishAviation
Updates, additions and corrections are appreciated.

Please note that various foreign charter companies are also active on the Nigerian market, such as VistaJet, Hangar8, Empire Aviation Group, National Airways Corporation, TAG Aviation, AVjet Corporation, and AmJet Executive. Their aircraft are not included in the list above. The same goes for the foreign registered aircraft operated by JetAlliance (Austria/Germany) for Prime Air Services and Izy Air.

SOURCE: http://goo.gl/VfX6T

Business and private jets based in Nigeria.


Sky Watch Nigeria.

In recent months, wild guesses have been made in the Nigerian press about the number of private and corporate jets based in Nigeria and/or owned by Nigerians. The NCAA will not provide the accurate numbers, but a list of identified active private and business jets is provided below. The list is not complete and might not be entirely accurate, but it does show that the numbers circulating in the press are slightly exaggerated.

Aircraft on the Nigerian register:

Boeing 737-700/BBJ (5N-FGT) – Nigerian Air Force
Dassault Falcon 7X (5N-FGU) – Nigerian Air Force
Dassault Falcon 7X (5N-FGV) – Nigerian Air Force
Gulfstream G550 (5N-FGW) – Nigerian Air Force
Gulfstream GV (5N-FGS) – Nigerian Air Force
Cessna Citation II (NAF 050) – Nigerian Air Force
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (5N-RSG) – Rivers State Government
Embraer EMB145LR (5N-BJM) – Bauchi State Government / Associated Aviation
Embraer EMB145EU (5N-BOZ) – Taraba State Government / Air Taraba / OAS Helicopters
Cessna Citation XLS (5N-HAR) – Nigeria Police
Cessna 525C CitationJet CJ4 (5N-DIA) – Nigeria Customs Service
HS 125-700 (5N-AVK) – Nigerian Airspace Management Agency
Hawker 4000 (5N-NOC) – Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
BAe 125-800 (5N-NPC) – Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
Hawker 800A (5N-BNE) – King Airline
Hawker 800A (5N-BMR) – King Airline
Hawker 800XP (5N-BNM) – SkyJet Aviation
Learjet 45 (5N-BLW) – Associated Aviation / Hangar8
BAe 125-700 (5N-BFC) – Associated Aviation
BAe 125-700 (5N-DAO) – Associated Aviation
Hawker 800XP (5N-JMA) – Arik Air
Hawker 800XP (5N-JMB) – Arik Air
Learjet 45XR (5N-LDM) – MaxAir
Gulfstream GIV (5N-BOD) – SkyBird Air
Cessna 560XLS Citation Excel (5N-BJS) – Pan African Airlines
Cessna 560XLS Citation Excel (5N-BOQ) – Pan African Airlines
Learjet 45 (5N-DAL) – Dana Air
Learjet 60 (5N-???) – Caverton Helicopters
BAe 125-600 (5N-EMA) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air – stored at Lagos
Hawker 800A (5N-QTS) – S. Iwuajoku / Quits Aviation
Hawker 800XP (5N-IZY) – A. Izinyon / Izy Air
Cessna 550 Citation Bravo (5N-IZZ) – Izy Air
BAe 125-700 (5N-BEX) – A. Dangote
BAe 125-1000 (5N-DGN) – A. Dangote
Gulfstream GII (5N-BGV) – R. Okorocha – for sale
Gulfstream GIV (5N-PZE) – A. Eze / Oranto Oil / Triax Airlines
Hawker 800 (5N-BMT) – Ocean and Marine
BAe 125-800 (5N-BOO) – unidentified – stored
Dassault Falcon 900 (5N-FGE) – unidentified – stored
Dassault Falcon 900 (5N-BOH) – unidentified – stored
Foreign registered aircraft based in Nigeria:

Bombardier Global 5000 (N565RS) – Rivers State Government
Gulfstream G450 (N224BH) – Akwa Ibom State Government
Hawker 800XP (N664AC) – TaK Aviation / TaK Continental
Hawker 800XP (N500AZ) – Azikel Air
Hawker 900XP (ZS-SME) – TopBrass Aviation
Hawker 900XP (ZS-KBS) – SkyJet Aviation
Hawker 4000 (N412TF) – SkyPower Express Airways
Cessna 525 CitationJet Cj1+ (N224BA) – SkyPower Express Airways
Cessna 680 Citation Sovereign (N2208L) – United Bank of Africa
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (M-ANGA) – MaxAir
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (ZS-LRK) – SkyJet Aviation
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (ZS-UBS) – SkyJet Aviation
Learjet 45XR (ZS-KAA) – SkyJet Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 604 (VP-BJM) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VP-CNA) – M. Adenuga / Southern Air
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VQ-BJA) – A. Johnson
Bombardier Global Express XRS (VP-CEO) – F. Alakija
Bombardier Global Express XRS (N104DA) – A. Dangote
Learjet 45 (N104DN) – A. Dangote
Bombardier Challenger 300 (VQ-BMJ) – Executive Jets Services – for sale
Bombardier Challenger 300 (3B-NGT) – F. Otedola / Executive Jets Services / OSA Aviation – for sale
Bombardier Challenger 605 (3B-RGT) – Executive Jets Services / OSA Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 605 (N605GF) – J. Ibrahim / Global Fleet
Bombardier Challenger 605 (VP-CSI) – I. Sanomi / Gembrook Energy Projects
Dassault Falcon 50 (M-SNSS) – S. Tommey / Osmoserve Global
Hawker 900XP (N638MA) – M. Ada Ojo / Midway Airlines
Gulfstream GIV (N990EA) – E. Azudialu / Nestoil
Gulfstream GIV (N52MK) – M. Indimi / Oriental Energy Resources
Gulfstream GIV (M-PZPZ) – A. Eze / Triax Airlines
Gulfstream G550 (N169SD) – S. Dantata / MRS Group – for sale
Embraer EMB135BJ Legacy 600 (N357TE) – I. Rabiu / BUA Group
Dassault Falcon 7X (VP-BGG) – Chagoury Group
Gulfstream GIV (N707EA) – E. Adeboye / Emmanuel Aviation
Bombardier Challenger 601 (N431CB) – A. Oritsejafor
Bombardier Challenger 604 (N664D) – D. Oyedepo / Dominion Air / World Mission Agency
Hawker 800XP (ZS-PCY) – Oando / Triton Aviation
Hawker 900XP (ZS-BOT) – Oando / Triton Aviation / Hangar8
Hawker 4000 (ZS-ZOT) – Oando / Triton Aviation / Hangar8
Bombardier Challenger 300 (VP-BJT) – possibly Empire Aviation Services / O. Smith – unidentified
Dassault Falcon 2000LX (M-DARA) – likely Dangote or Chagoury Group – unidentified
Hawker 900xp (ZS-ZGV) – unidentified
Hawker 800 (N????) – Africa Contracts and Equipment
Private and corporate propeller aircraft:

Beechcraft 1900D (5N-WCI) – Dominion Air
Beechcraft 1900D (5N-MPA) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-MPB) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 1900D (5N-MPN) – Mobil Nigeria
Beechcraft 350 King Air (N455SE) – TaK Aviation
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-FLS) – Julius Berger
Beechcraft 350 King Air (5N-FLY) – Julius Berger
Beechcraft 200 King Air (5N-IHS) – Wings Aviation – stored at Lanseria
Cessna 208A Caravan I Amphibian (5N-BIW) – Pan African Airlines
Pilatus PC-12 (5N-BNG) – Bala Ibn Na’Allah
Piper Aztec PA-23 (5N-BGZ) – Africa Contracts and Equipment / MishAviation
Updates, additions and corrections are appreciated.

Please note that various foreign charter companies are also active on the Nigerian market, such as VistaJet, Hangar8, Empire Aviation Group, National Airways Corporation, TAG Aviation, AVjet Corporation, and AmJet Executive. Their aircraft are not included in the list above. The same goes for the foreign registered aircraft operated by JetAlliance (Austria/Germany) for Prime Air Services and Izy Air.

SOURCE: http://goo.gl/VfX6T