Air France’s Cabin crew to strike from July 27 to August 02, 2016

..Airline gives passengers precautions

The Air France Cabin Crew union plans to embark on one week strike. The industrial action is scheduled to  commence from July 27 to August 02, 2016. The airline expressed its displeasure about the strike. According to the airline’s statement, “ Air France deplores the call for strike action by two cabin crew unions (SNPNC-FO and UNSA-PNC) for the period from 27 July to 2 August, when Air France management had proposed a favourable agreement.”

Explaining what happened at the meeting with the union, the airline said that on Friday morning, management presented the cabin crew unions with a proposal to clarify and complete the draft cabin crew collective agreement for the period from November 2016 to March 2018.

“In addition to the improvements contained in the draft agreement, this new proposal contains several advances, which respond to a large extent to the demands made by both the UNAC, which postponed its strike notice several days ago, the UNSA PNC and the SNPNC/FO.”

“Talks between management and cabin crew unions continued until late into the night on Thursday.

It is too soon to know the precise impact of this strike action on the flight schedule. Based on the application of the Diard law, Air France will have accurate information to enable it to inform customers 24 hours before their departure.”

Ensuring the long-haul flight operates as schedule, the airline said, “the company is mobilized to ensure the majority of its long-haul schedule during this period. There may be more disruption on the short and medium-haul networks. Air France flights operated by another airline, including HOP!, KLM and Delta, as well as Transavia flights, are not affected by this strike action.”

"Air France management has gone as far as it could go with the social dialogue, in a spirit of compromise and responsibility with regard to the future of the company and all its staff. The call for strike action is irresponsible in this context and comes at the worst possible time for our customers" said Frédéric Gagey, Air France CEO.

Explaining the  likely impact of the action on the operations, the airline said, “as soon as we will have a more accurate estimate of the number of employees on strike and the impact on our operations, our flight schedule will be adapted accordingly and published the day before your departure.

Our teams are mobilized to ensure the most of our long-haul schedule during this period. Disruption on flight from and to France and Europe may be significant. Flight cancellations are to be expected.

Furthermore, in order to ensure a maximum number of flights with a reduced crew composition, we may be forced to limit the number of passengers on board some of our flights which would mean we may not be able to honour all reservations.

Customers affected by the cancellation of their reservation will be informed the day before departure.”

Keeping the line of communication with prospective passengers through the period of the strike, “to be notified personally by text message or e-mail, we invite you to update your contact information (phone and / or e-mail) in your reservation file on our website. In the meantime, we would like to assure you that our teams are fully mobilized and will do their utmost to assist you and minimize the impact of this industrial action on your travel plans.”

Also giving commercial measures to be implemented, the airline advised passengers that, “ If you wish to postpone your trip, we offer you the following commercial measures. If you have planned a trip on an Air France flight between July 27 and August 2, 2016: You can bring your trip forward on 25 or 26 July 2016 inclusive, or postpone your trip from 3 to 12 August 2016 inclusive. You can change your reservation at no extra cost in the same class of travel.”

“You can make these changes on this website, in the "Your reservations" section, on our mobile sites or from your travel agent.

You can also postpone your trip beyond 12 August, 2016, change your origin or destination or if you no longer wish to travel, you can receive of a non-refundable voucher valid one year on Air France, KLM or Hop!

In this case, you may contact your travel agent.”

“Before you go to airport, if the flight is "operated by Air France", we recommend that you check the information of about your bookings on our website or mobile app in the "your reservations" section.

If your reservation is cancelled, we recommend that you do not travel to the airport. Our staff will do their utmost to offer you an alternative solution.

Otherwise, you will be able to change your flight independently on our website. If you wish, you can also contact your travel agent or our teams who are mobilized to assist you in seeking an alternative solution. (in the "Contact us" section).”

“We sincerely hope that your flight will operate as scheduled and apologize for any inconvenience this strike action may cause you.”

Jet A1 Scarcity: Nigeria CAA Beseeches Passengers

…Airlines should communicate with passengers

It is obvious that  passengers around Nigeria airports are not happy with hitches on their itinerary as a result of shortage of aviation fuel. The regulatory authority in charge of  aviation, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called on all passengers who are experiencing the attendant flight delays and cancellations arising from the scarcity of Aviation fuel to exercise restraint.

According to NCAA through its  spokesman, Samuel Adurogboye, “this call is necessary due to reports of passengers’ rage and violence from some of the nation’s airports in the last few days. In some cases irate passengers have resorted to wanton destruction of certain facilities at the airports.

The Regulatory Authority agrees absolutely with the passengers that the conditions of carriage on their tickets must be upheld by the operating airlines. In other words, it is our statutory responsibility to ensure that passengers derive value for their money.”

Adurogboye said NCAA is well primed to ensure that all aggrieved passengers’ complaints are professionally handled by their Consumer Protection Officers, which includes flight cancellations, delays, missing baggage, denied-boarding and so on.

Registering its awareness, NCAA said it is well aware of the prevailing scarcity of Jet A1 which has inevitably led to flight cancellations and delays by the airlines.

Ameliorating existing challenge, Adurogboye said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken cognizance of concerted efforts being made by the airlines to ensure that all passengers are ferried without any hitches. Also that, “the Federal Government of Nigeria is already engaging all the stakeholders involved with the procurement and distribution of aviation fuel to ensure availability in earnest.”

All passengers are therefore enjoined to exercise caution while expressing their grievances as the airlines are grappling with the challenges thrown up by the non- availability of Jet A1.

NCAA also called on the airline operators that they must ensure strict adherence to the Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) in their operations. Passengers must be informed of any development concerning their flights well ahead of time.

Private Jets & The Renewed Passenger Photo Identification Policy

By Capt. Daniel Omale

 As the minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah introduced inconsistent and incomprehensible policies. One of the failed regulations she proposed was passenger photo identification for all private jets operating within Nigeria.

The introduction of the policy was purposely designed to checkmate Rotimi Ameachi, a former governor of Rivers state, and an adversary of President Jonathan Goodluck.

When River state aircraft, a Bombardier Global Express, which governor Ameachi had was grounded in Akure in 2013 by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency(NAMA), Rotimi Ameachi’s regular movement in other private jets needed to be monitored, hence the promulgation of the  “Private jets passenger identification” ordinance.

Fortunately, due to public outcry, and Stella Oduah’s celebrated removal from office, the policy died a natural death.  Or so we thought.

Now the table has turned; Ameachi has become the minister of transport, of which aviation ministry is directly under its purview. The same private jets passenger photo identification policy has been reactivated. The NAMA’s circular dated June 24, 2016, signed by one Pwajok M, L, states: “Submission of GENDEC, Passenger Manifest and Photo Identity by Private Aircraft Operation.”

What the minister of transport does not know is that the same aviation cartel that misled Stella Oduah to her disgraceful exit is actively with him. These quasi, self-ordained aviation professionals will lead him or his minister of state, Hadi Sirika, into the same path of deconstruction of the sector.

Private Jet owners or operators are not, in any way, the problem of aviation industry in Nigeria. Instead, they contribute more that 60% of the total revenues generated.  Therefore, creating impediments to efficient private aircraft operation is not only anti-industry growth, but shear shortsightedness.

Every day in this country, private jet owners, especially those with foreign registrations, pay in excess of $500,000 (N180m) as statutory fees to various aviation agencies. It is therefore, unwise, and unnecessary to reintroduce this unrealistic, draconian policy.

For those canvassing to uphold this stipulation, using security concern as the core reason, there is no single private, foreign registered aircraft in Nigeria that is unknown to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This also means that the owner of such an aircraft and his operational characteristics are duly certificated. There has never been a private aircraft engaged in any subversive activity in Nigeria.

Foreign registered private aircraft are better maintained, especially those registered to the United States and European financiers or lessors. With dual safety oversight (the NCAA & foreign CAA), it is only natural to expect and accept higher quality routine and schedule maintenance.

If this senseless policy is aimed at frustrating individuals with private Jets, there is obviously no need for such, because those who looted our national treasury to acquire assets have since run out of the country with their aircraft.

There are also those who constantly call for all foreign registered private Jets to de-register to Nigerian tail number for ease of employing Nigerian pilots. This idea is far beyond ordinary rhetoric or adoption of some irrational policy. If Nigeria’s banks /financial institutions can’t support investments in equipment acquisition, it is only fair to allow those who can secure aircraft financing from abroad to stay within the terms and conditions of such loans. One of them is to keep the aircraft registered in a more liberal country of the world for easy repossession.

The only way to create jobs for the hundreds of young pilots in our midst is for the federal government to support anyone interested in‎ venturing into commercial aviation with softer, more affordable loan through the bank of industry. Unless access to lower cost of funds is available in Nigeria, no regulation can sway entrepreneurs from doing what is “best for business.”

The new Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) of 2016 with some clauses centered on expunging “Part G” aircraft importation and operation in Nigeria are untenable. Nigeria is a signatory to Cape Town convention. This Convention provides for the constitution and effects of an international interest in certain categories of mobile equipment and associated rights. It commenced in 2001 and ratified in 2006 by 69 countries‎, including Nigeria.

Before these rules can become effective, the NCAA should write and be approved to withdraw Nigeria from the countries that ratified the articles of the Cape Town Convention. Anything other than that, will be a violation of the applicable laws in the international agreement.

While I can appreciate selfishness on the part of those who feel threatened that the few lucky aircraft operators in Nigeria, who can source aircraft from abroad pose immense threat to the competition, it is definitely not a single person’s call to cancel an international agreement without due national authorisation.

It is the NCAA’s responsibility to safeguard all international aviation agreements ratified by Nigeria. A single airline operator in Nigeria cannot, and should not coerce the agency to make rules that are tantamount to the general standards and best practices worldwide. This shallow and greedy motive by some airline owners in this country has threatened industry growth, and future prospect.

Nigeria’s aviation business is bigger and larger than any single airline owner to dictate its modus operandi.

For effective CARS, stakeholders must be given ample time to diligently review and deliberate on what is tenable and untenable in every part of the regulations. If it took the NCAA four years to compile the 4000 plus pages of the new CARs, operators need, at least, one year to digest and propose rational amendments to this humongous booklet. Hasty implementation of the various updated clauses will create more damage to a sector already in fragility.

Those calling for the abolition of part G aircraft operation are not only being selfish and senseless, they are shallow-minded and, ignorant of what the Cape Town Convention stands for, towards aviation development in developing nations.

Also, those instigating the minister of transport to enforce private Jets passenger photo identification prior to each flight are simply disrupting smooth flow of aircraft operation in Nigeria. They have always exploited the system into retrogression.

                                        Capt. Daniel Omale writes from Abuja

IATA and FIATA Agree On New Air Cargo Program

…Global roll-out in 2018

 

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) have come together in an agreement to implement a new Air Cargo Program. Announcing the   agreement, IATA in a statement said, “The agreement has been signed by Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO and Huxiang Zhao, President of FIATA, to implement the IATA-FIATA Air Cargo Program (IFACP) to replace the existing IATA Cargo Agency Program.

According to IATA,  “Over the decades that the IATA Cargo Agency Program has operated; IATA Cargo Agents (freight forwarders) have evolved from being “selling-agents” for airlines to being their “purchasing-customers”. In consideration of this evolution, in 2012 IATA and FIATA joined forces to review, refine and re-engineer the existing Agency Program. The new program moves decision-making on the rules governing the airline-forwarder relationship away from an airline-led conference to a governance body - the IATA-FIATA Governance Board (IFGB) - jointly managed by forwarders and airlines, which reflects today’s market conditions.”

“IATA and FIATA have reached an important agreement on a new jointly-managed air cargo program. This is the result of four years of hard work to modernize the relationship between freight forwarders and airlines. The IFACP also provides a framework to ensure that industry standards are relevant, pragmatic and fit for purpose. These standards cover the endorsement of freight forwarders and more broadly the safe, secure and efficient transportation of air cargo shipments”, said Aleks Popovich, IATA, Senior Vice President, Financial and Distribution Services.

“The Cargo Agency Program has long needed updating. I am really pleased that FIATA and IATA have joined forces to provide our industry with a new, modern program and a framework for operation that benefits both airlines and freight forwarders. IFACP will eliminate unnecessary administrative procedures and costs as well as free up valuable resources to tackle the complex challenges that today’s global trade presents. These include regulatory compliance, safety and security and the introduction of new technologies. This agreement paves the way for a more successful future for the fastest and most fascinating mode of international transport”, remarked Mr. Rudi Sagel, Chairman of FIATA’s Airfreight Institute (AFI).

The phased rollout of IFACP will begin in early 2017 with Canada as the pilot country. It is anticipated that full global rollout will be completed by end of 2018. The public signature with the common endorsement of the agreement will take place at the October FIATA World Congress which will be held in Dublin, Ireland.

Benefits of the new IATA-FIATA Air Cargo Program (IFACP)

The structure of the new agreement better reflects the new business models and the buyer-seller relationship that exists today between forwarders and airlines. With the establishment of a global IATA-FIATA Governance Board (IFGB), the industry will be better equipped to achieve key goals including: e-cargo priorities of greater efficiency and shared values, clarification of supply chain liability, improved compliance with safety and security standards through a more coordinated and concerted industry approach.

The IFGB governance structure will reduce the administrative burden in managing the program as it includes the involvement of forwarders as equal partners in the decision making process which now correctly reflects the Principal-to-Principal relationship existing today between Freight Forwarders and Airlines.

Impact on the current IATA Cargo Agents

There is no immediate impact on the current IATA Cargo Agents as the current participants of the IATA Cargo Agency/ Intermediary Program will be provided with a new IATA-FIATA Air Cargo Program Agreement when the program implementation process begins in their country. Upon execution and receipt of the completed Agreement, the Endorsed Freight Forwarder will join the new program. No further assessment will be required. New entrants shall be granted access to the IFACP in accordance with the program's rules, which are designed to be more reflective of how the air cargo business functions in today’s market. It is anticipated this process will be completed by end of 2018.

Jet A1 scarcity: Marketers Promised Respite This Week- Arik Air

There is no doubt that the current scarcity of aviation fuel has hit harder on the operations of airlines in Nigeria but there is good news. According to Arik Air’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, Adebanji Ola, “Marketers have assured that the situation would improve this week as they are expecting delivery of additional stock.”

Arik Air is appealing to their teeming patrons to bear with them as government and marketers are making efforts to ameliorate the difficult situation at hand. “While the Federal Government and oil marketers are working hard to address the supply and distribution challenges, we appeal to our guests to bear with us as they may experience flights delays and cancelations because of the prevailing scarcity of aviation fuel across the country”.

Adebanji futher explained that the airline is grappling with flight schedule disruptions due to the severe scarcity of aviation fuel (Jet A1) across the country.

 He said “since the beginning of this year, Nigeria has been grappling with inadequate supply of aviation fuel leading in most cases to severe shortage of the product and consequently the disruption of flight operations. For the past week, the airline had to face another round of aviation fuel scarcity which got worse over this weekend leading to many flight delays and cancellations.”

As the operator of largest flights in West Africa, the airline operates an average of 120 daily flights requiring about 500,000 liters of fuel daily. “Due to the large number of domestic and international flights, it is the most impacted by the inability of oil marketers to meet its daily fuel requirements on a timely and consistent basis. This has forced the airline to postpone flights while waiting for the fuel marketers to source and deliver the product. On many occasions, despite all efforts in engaging the marketers if fuel could not be sourced, the flights may eventually be cancelled causing not only revenue loss for the airline but also inconveniencing or stranding the passengers.”

Relaying the challenge, Arik Air has identified supply and infrastructural challenges of the marketers as some of the key factors responsible for the epileptic supply of aviation fuel. At the root of the fuel supply crisis is low stock due to the inability of marketers to source for the foreign exchange to import more Jet A1 fuel into the country. There is also a distribution challenge as the discharging of vessels bringing Jet A1 and other petroleum products are done in the same Jetty and loading various trucks for distribution to cities like Kano or Abuja takes considerable effort and time. The situation in the north is even more difficult since the product takes longer to be delivered due to the trucking distance. Oil marketers have also resorted to trucking of aviation fuel to the airports because hydrants are not consistently available at the airports.

Arik Air has also stated that it is working on a longer term plan which will be finalized in the coming months to mitigate this situation and to be in a better position to address such supply shortages and delays.

Where flights are likely to be delayed or cancelled, Arik Air will notify passengers through SMS and do all possible to accommodate passengers on the first available alternate flight.

US banned flights to and from Turkey

...Turkish Airlines cancels flights too

Due to the aftermath of the botched coup in the Turkey, the United States of America has henceforth stopped all flights to and from Turkey. The Turkey’s national carrier, Turkish Airlines also has cancelled flights to the United States of America. This is according to the airline’s notice on its website. “All our flight operations (with the exception of the U.S.A. flights) have turned back to normal. Our flights to and from the U.S.A. on the 17th and 18th of July 2016 have been canceled and passengers booked on these flights are kindly asked to apply to our sales offices in city centers and respective travel agencies.”

This will definitely affects passengers all over the world connecting the airports in Turkey to the Northern America country.

Alternative for travellers is to use other airlines to the US as there is no definite time in sight for the Turkey-US route restoration.

“We extend our thanks to our passengers for their understanding and kindly ask them to follow our website for up to date information on their flights and booking.”-Turkish Airlines said.

African Union Unveils E-passport In Kigali

…Heralding Visa-Free Continent

 

L-R:President of Rwanda Paul Kagame,Idriss Deby, President of the Republic of Chad and Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma at the  ongoing AU Summit in Kigali.                        (Photo source:AU)                                                                                     

The dream of visa-free Africa for Africa citizens is becoming a reality as African leaders gathered at Rwanda's capital Kigali for their biannual meeting with the launch of the continent's first-ever African e-passport.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma announced the launch and presented the first two e-passports to rotating AU chairperson Idriss Deby, President of the Republic of Chad, and President of Rwanda Paul Kagame at the opening ceremony of the 27th ordinary session of the AU Heads of States.

A statement by AU before the commencement of ongoing summit stated that, “ the flagship project, first agreed upon in 2014, falls squarely within the framework of Africa’s Agenda 2063 and has the specific aim of facilitating free movement of persons, goods and services around the continent - in order to foster intra-Africa trade, integration and socio-economic development.”

According to AU, the first group of beneficiaries of the e-passport will include AU heads of state and government; ministers of foreign affairs; and permanent representatives of AU member states based at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa.

Delta Airlines To Deploy Baggage Tracking Device In Nigeria

                                                                                                                                                                         Photo Source: Delta.com

The only American   carrier operating flights from Nigeria to the United States Delta Airline, is “deploying Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) baggage tracking technology across its system, including between Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.” According to the airline, “the move will provide Nigerian customers with improved real-time tracking of luggage throughout the travel experience.  Delta remains the only U.S. carrier to operate nonstop service between Nigeria and the United States offering hundreds of onward connecting opportunities via Delta’s Atlanta hub.”

“RFID will replace barcode hand scanning – the industry standard since the early 90s. With this new technology, scanners use radio waves to capture highly accurate and consistent data stored on an RFID chip embedded in the luggage tag, driving superior tracking and increased transparency.

“With RFID, customers will see their bags on and off the aircraft during their journey via push notifications to the Fly Delta mobile app beginning in the fourth quarter of 2016.

Bobby Bryan, commercial manager for West and East Africa, Delta Air Lines, said, “RFID is another example of our investment in the Nigerian marketplace.  It offers customers clear visibility of their checked bags and will set a new standard for more transparent, interactive tracking on the Fly Delta mobile app.”  He continued, “Delta’s daily nonstop flight between Lagos and Atlanta has gone from strength to strength and we continue to be focused on offering the best experience for our customers.”

Better baggage handling processes and enhanced technology have already shrunk the airline’s mishandled bag rates by 68 percent over the past 10 years, establishing Delta as the leading U.S.-based global airline for baggage performance. In 2015 Delta led U.S. global airlines in Department of Transportation (DOT) bag performance while setting six monthly DOT records and a full year record.

Delta operates the flights between Lagos and Atlanta with Boeing 767 aircraft with up to 208 seats featuring 36 business seats in Delta One, 35 seats in Comfort Plus and 137 in its main economy cabin.

Dana Air Pledges To On-Time Operations, Fuel Shortage Threatens

Dana Air reiterates its on-time performance which was the core of its excellent services, when it took to the skies on November 10, 2008.  The current aviation fuel shortage is threatening that enviable achievement.

The airline has always kept to time but the new development stands as an impediment to the “Just In time” feat.

According to the Accountable Manager of the airline, Mr Obi Mbanuzuo, Dana Air, has always taken the lead in ensuring that passengers get to their destinations on schedule,  but recent delays due shortage in fuel supply has not really helped its flight services to the flying public.

 Apologizing to its patrons Obi said: “we sincerely apologize to our teeming guests for the delays experienced recently and regret the inconveniences caused. The recent delays have not really helped our desire and commitment to take our passengers to their destinations on schedule.’’

Commenting further, Obi said, “the issue is antithetical to our award winning service and we have been proactive in seeking better handling of operational issues. We will not relent in our efforts but continue to strive to improve on our services and offerings.’’

Severe Aviation Fuel scarcity hit Nigeria, Arik Air Alerts

…Arik Air consumes 500,000 litres per day

The airline with highest frequency operations in West Africa, Arik Air, has raised alarm on the severity of aviation fuel’s scarcity in Nigeria.  The airline in a statement is calling the attention of air travellers to the new development.

The airline said the scarcity became evident few days ago when oil marketers started rationing JET A1 supply to airlines stating limited stock at the depots.

The situation is critical in Lagos and Abuja, the operational hubs of Arik Air and the airline has warned that if the situation is not addressed as a priority by the marketers, more flights could be delayed or cancelled.

Arik Air, the largest consumer of aviation fuel in Nigeria operates more than 120 daily flights and its daily fuel requirement is about 500,000 liters. This means that Arik Air will be most affected by the scarcity and delay in marketers to source and deliver fuel to the airlines.

The airline has therefore appealed for the understanding of passengers as it grapples with the JET A1 scarcity. Where flights are likely to be delayed, the airline will notify passengers through SMS. In case of flight being cancelled due to limited supply of fuel by marketers, passengers will be accommodated on first available alternative flight at no cost.

Nigeria’s Airport Authority Trains 240 For Safety and Security

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN has embarked on training of about 240 recruits to improve safety and security at nation’s airports.  Yakubu Dati, General Manager Corporate Affairs of FAAN in a statement said “the training of newly recruited staff is part of the Authority's commitment to entrench safety and security in the nation's airports.  The Managing Director of FAAN, Engr Saleh Dunoma stated this in Lagos following an unscheduled visit to the FAAN Training School where the training is taking place. ”

The newly recruited employees undergoing training will be in the Aviation Security (AVSEC) and the Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS).

The first Batch of trainees are undergoing a 12 week induction training, which commenced on June 15, 2016 in Lagos.

The participants, who were divided into two classes of 120 each of Aviation Security and Fire Officers, are being trained on general modules such as Service Delivery in Nigeria, Code of Ethics in Aviation Business, Aviation Safety and Hazard Management, amongst others.

Dati further explained that the recruits who are domiciled at the FAAN facility would also be exposed to technical modules such as Recognition of Explosives and Dangerous Articles, Access Control (Vehicle and Persons), Overview of International Civil Aviation, Screening Techniques and Procedures for Aviation Security Officers. Others include Fire Engineering Science, Bridding Apparatus Wearer, Media First Aid, Intensive Paramilitary, Simulator Training for Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service and so on.

The 12 weeks induction training would also feature a 2-week on-the-job training for Aviation Security Officers, and a week international simulator training for Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services Officers.

Caverton Helicopters and Unions agree, strike suspended

Caverton Helicopters, National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE and National Union of Air Transport Employees NUATE have temporarily resolved issues bothering on staff Condition of Service. The gate of the Lagos office was opened for accessibility to staff and management by 12.00p.m.  today .  After long hours of deliberation while the operations of Caverton Helicopters were grounded by unions, the company is back to its normal activities.

The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers and National Union of Air Transport Employees at the early hours of today block the gates of all Caverton Helicopter offices in Lagos, Warri and Port Harcourt to register some of their displeasures.

A communique was issued at the end of a meeting between Caverton and the unions.

The agreement reached reads:  “Sequel to the warning strike at all the Caverton Helicopters bases by NAAPE and NUATE, a negotiation meeting was held at the office of Caverton Helicopters with the management Representatives, the following was agreed:

“Payment of outstanding salaries- That all outstanding June 2016 salaries will be paid within 10 working days from today, July 13, 2016 and that July 2016 and subsequent salaries will be paid on the 26^th of every month according to our contact terms of employment and the Condition of Services signed by the company.

“It was also agreed that a meeting should be convened urgently between the unions and the full management to discuss several other issues including pensions, PAYE, Taxes, CBN exchange rates and outstanding Condition of Service for non-crew e.t.c.

“There will be no victimization of any employee as a result of this incidence.

NCAA and FAAN representatives were present at the meeting. The agreement was jointly signed by Balami Isaac, NAAPE National President, Kingsley Uwagbale Director, Strategy and Planning Caverton , Mojisola Omotunde Head, Resource Management, Caverton; Francis Aremu, Financial Controller, Caverton; Ocheme Aba General Secretary NAAPE and Olayinka Olu Abioye Acting General Secretary, NUATE.

Pilots and engineers shut down Caverton Helicopters today

The pilots and engineers under the aegis of National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineer, NAAPE is carrying out a one-day warning strike with a total shut down of Caverton Helicopters’ operations today. This is according to a “Notice of Strike Action” signed by the association’s General Secretary, Ocheme Aba and made available to Aviationages.

Ocheme Aba who was also speaking to aviation journalists yesterday at the airport said they are going to shut all the operation bases of the company in Lagos, Warri, NAF Base Port Harcourt and Shell in Port Harcourt too.

The notice  reads : “It has become clear that the management of the Caverton Helicopters has taken NAAPE and its members for granted. Despite concerted efforts on our part to secure amelioration to several labour issues severing our relationship, management has remained unconcerned about these issues:

“Refusal to commit to payment of salaries every month on, or before 26^th day of the month as per Condition of Service as against the present situation where salaries run into months in arrears.

“Refusal to commit to payment of salaries to all Pilots and Engineers in Caverton at the same time, irrespective of nationality, as against the present situation where expatriates are paid promptly but Nationals are owed for months.

“Refusal to commit to pay remunerations being converted from Dollars to Naira at prevailing inter-bank rate as previously agreed.

There is obnoxious issue of deduction of tax and pension without remitting same to appropriate authorities.

Aba said that having exhausted all avenues of seeking redress without success, they have to come to the painful conclusion that the management of Caverton has taken their goodwill and patience for granted. 

Overland Airways gets IOSA Certification

Joining other airlines on safety reliability is one of Nigeria’s stable airlines, Overland Airways. Announcing the achievement, Overland Airways said it has successfully completed the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and has been listed on the IOSA Registry. “This is a further endorsement of Overland Airways' 14-year history of outstanding safety performance.”

According to Capt. Edward Boyo, CEO of Overland Airways, the IOSA audit is a pronouncement of the outstanding business model, excellent personnel, safety culture at Overland Airways, and protection of our investment.

"The IOSA audit further endorses Overland Airways as a world-class airline and creates increased accessibility to partnerships with global and regional airlines. It also further motivates Overland Airways to deliver excellent operational, economic and all-round service standards and efficiencies.

Overland Airways has sustained a custom of impeccable safety and outstanding economic performance and sustainability which to-date makes it the only airline in Nigeria older than 7 years that is not taken over by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) for reason of debt overhang. The impressive culture of service excellence painstakingly developed over the years makes Overland Airways the most consistent, longest-serving airline providing uninterrupted service in Nigeria over the past 14 years.

According to Mrs. Aanu Benson, the Chief Operating Officer of Overland Airways:  "Overland Airways continues to show readiness to support national and regional economic development with excellent safety and economic performance at all times. Overland Airways has taken this remarkable step to push forward our commitment to service Nigeria's hinterland and hub economies, and to also support our vision of providing safe, comfortable and reliable air connectivity to empower individuals, small and large businesses as well as local economies in Nigeria and the sub-region."

"IOSA is now the constant reminder of our dedication and commitment to service our customers with continually improved excellence in safety, comfort and reliable service."

Overland Airways has successfully opened remote airports and hinterland cities in Nigeria, and on several instances has been the first-ever airline to fly to several remote destinations in Nigeria including Asaba, Jalingo, Dutse, Katsina and Minna. Overland Airways has thus become an unmatched partner in economic empowerment in Nigeria's fast growing economy, strategically deepening economic development in tourism, agribusiness and other small and medium scale industries, etc., and is also expanding its cargo services to more destinations including Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Ilorin and Akure, and soon Jalingo.

According to IATA, "The IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) program is an internationally recognized and accepted evaluation system designed to assess the operational management and control systems of an airline," stating that "in terms of global standards, the IOSA is a proven tool for raising safety."

The IOSA registration is a mark of international operational safety standard developed by IATA to support the efforts of big and small airlines globally to improve their operational safety, which has so far tremendously enhanced safety performance among airlines globally. With continually improved safety standards, Overland Airways has equally become a notable partner in economic development in several of Nigeria's hinterland and hub economies.

Nigeria Government reaffirms Zero per cent Duty and VAT on commercial aircraft

The Federal Government of Nigeria has given a nod to the controversial issues surrounding the approval of waiver by previous administration on imported commercial aircraft and spares.  The reaffirmation came from both the Nigeria Custom Service and the Ministry of Finance. According to a statement by Airline Operators of Nigeria, AON through its Chairman, Capt. Nogie Meggison, “The clarification on the Zero Duty and VAT was contained in a letter dated 20th June, 2016 and signed by the Nigeria Customs Service. It stated inter alia that: “I am directed to inform you that by virtue of the Federal Government 2013 Fiscal Policy measures, Ref No. BD.12237/S.1008/T/11 dated 15th January, 2013. All Commercial Aircraft &its Spare Parts imported for use in Nigeria shall attract import duty rate of zero per cent (0%) and zero per cent (0%) VAT respectively.”

“Furthermore, the letter stated that: “I am further directed to inform you that the Honourable Minister of Finance letter Ref. No. BD/FP/TT/50/1/113 dated 20th March, 2015. Approval for the implementation of the ECOWAS Common External Tariff (CET) 2015 – 2019 and 2015 Fiscal Policy measures (National List) confirmed the extension of the 2013 Fiscal Policy measures.”

AON thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) for keying into the importance of aviation as one of the key drivers for economic recovery and its critical role of making Nigeria the pivot of air transportation in Africa. It also commend the government for graciously identifying with the pains of the Nigerian travelling public by extending its support for commercial airlines in the country and reaffirming the Zero Duty and VAT payment on the importation of commercial airplanes and its spare parts as a way of alleviating the cost burden and ensuring safe flight operations.

The Chairman of AON, Captain Nogie Meggison noted that the unprecedented move was a welcome development and a strong testament to the commitment of the Minister of State Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration for feeling the pulse of the masses and making good on his promise to work assiduously to ensure that aviation doesn’t go out of the reach of the common man by giving it the attention it rightly deserves.

Expressing appreciation, Meggison said that AON would like to thank the Federal Government of Nigeria for giving a listening ear to our persistent calls for the removal of Duty and VAT on the importation of commercial aircraft and its parts as is done in other parts of the world. “This is a welcome development and we commend the government for showing maturity and understanding of the critical role that aviation plays in driving the Nigerian economy thereby supporting Nigerian airlines, promoting safety and sustaining jobs.”

 Capt. Meggison stressed that: “The gesture was extended specifically to commercial aircraft operators and not private jet operators who are required to pay for luxury taxes.”

Dana Air starts Owerri with N12, 600 as introductory fare

 …Registers its grouse over multiple charges and others

Dana Air has fulfilled its promise in commencing the Lagos-Owerri route in the expansion plan of the airline. According to the airline, “Dana Air has commenced daily flights from Lagos to Owerri with an introductory online fare of N12,600 one way. The airline currently operates daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo and is set to extend its operations to other cities in Nigeria as part of its strategic route expansion plans.”

The tough economic situation in Nigeria does has not deterred Dana Air in appreciating its guests’ patronage. The Accountable Manager of Dana Air, Mr Obi Mbanuzuo, while addressing newsmen in Lagos, said the airline is committed to providing safe, reliable and pocket friendly service to the flying public. Obi also expressed appreciation to the airlines’ guests, partners and other stakeholders in the aviation industry for their support and patronage, and advised them to take advantage of the online fare, which he said was part of the airlines’ way of appreciating its teeming guests for their loyalty on the airlines’ existing route network. 

‘’ We commenced daily flights from Lagos to Owerri and back with an online fare we feel will be suitable for all. The fare is just our way of thanking our loyal guests on Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo routes for visiting our websitewww.flydanaair.com daily to book their tickets.’’

Obi while also explaining the reason behind the choice of Owerri, said ‘’Owerri is fast becoming a hub in Nigeria and our decision was borne out of our desire to extend our award winning service to the good people of Owerri, the Imo state capital.

Speaking on the airlines’ route and fleet expansion plans, Obi said, ‘’ plans are in top gear to add to our fleet and we are in talks with our local and foreign partners to see ways to fast track this. We are also aware of the demand for extension of our world-class services to more Nigerian cities and the west coast, and wish to state that plans are underway to expand our route network in the coming month in line with our growth plan”,

He assured guests of the airline that Dana Air will continue to invest in training and retraining of its Pilots, Engineers and other Technical staff and also contribute to capacity building in the industry.

‘We can boast of having some of the best hands in the industry and the feedback from our guests is positive. We will continue to invest in training and retraining of our Captains, Engineers and Technical staff to in order to keep the standards.’’

However, the airline expressed displeasure over some of the challenges facing domestic airlines like the rise in fuel price, multiple charges, and high exchange rate among other issues. “One of the issues domestic airlines  are faced with is multiple charges. If these charges can be merged or eliminated, it will help the present situation of airlines. As it stands, airlines pay a statutory charge, which is fine, but some other charges, which the airlines need to grapple with, are not even applicable in other climes.’’ Presently, airlines peg fares in naira and have to pay for necessary maintenance in hard currency, Obi added.

Commenting further, Obi said, “For us as an airline, we are concerned about providing affordable regional air transport services and we will be happy if the government can enter favorable agreements and create policies that will favor domestic airlines so that the burden is reduced on the flying public”.

‘’Dana Air’s vision remains  ‘to be recognized and respected as Nigeria's most reliable and customer-friendly airline’ and her mission is ‘to earn the loyalty and respect of our customers by consistently demonstrating our commitment to service, and providing affordable regional air transport services that focus on innovation, quality and service excellence’’ he assured.

Africa World Airline increases frequency on Lagos-Accra route

The Ghana based IOSA certified Africa World Airline has increased frequencies from four to six on the Lagos-Accra route. The airline currently operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. It will reintroduce Tuesdays and Thursdays that were suspended sometimes ago. According to the airline, ‘Africa World is excited to inform you of the reintroduction of flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays on the Lagos-Accra route.”

The airline said, “These flights will commence on the 21st of July 2016”

The time for the Tuesdays and Thursdays flights from Lagos will be 13.40 while the existing Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays schedule is 20.10

Nigeria CAA says air fares and other charges are not fixed

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has announced that air fares and charges by airline operators are determined by market force. The  General Manager, Public Relations of NCAA, Mr. Sam Adurogboye in a statement said that all airlines’ tariffs for their services including fares, rates, add-on charges or terms and condition of service are fully liberalised.

This is a reaction to reports that NCAA has authorised airlines to increase their fares.

According to NCAA management, "air fares and sundry charges have been statutorily deregulated and subjected to market forces."

As stipulated in the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, “all air carriers or its agent shall file with the Authority a tariff for that service showing all rates, fares and add-on charges, including the terms and conditions of free and reduced rate transportation for that service, as specified in IS.18.14.1.1.

“all air carriers or its agent shall obtain approval from the Authority to introduce and or increase add-on charges or surcharges such as fuel, internet booking, insurance, security and similar surcharges, prior to implementation.

“18.14.1.2. of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) says all tariffs are required to be filed of 18.14.1.1 and shall be done at least seven (7) days before the rates come into effect, except in the case of matching an existing rate for which no prior notification is required.

 After meeting all the aforementioned procedures, CAA,  "will therefore approve the fares accordingly. Prior to the approval, all fares filed with the Authority are subjected to Breakeven Analysis and this continues intermittently."

This analysis is to curb anti-competitive pricing and to ensure that fares are not too low as to impact on safety arising from inability to carry out prerequisite maintenance on their aircraft.

On the other hand, NCAA will similarly intervene if the fares are too high to avoid overpricing that will deny the teeming passengers access to air transportation.

NCAA furthers said, “in 18.14.1.4. If an air carrier that offers a service fails to apply the fares,rates,charges or terms and conditions of carriage set out in the tariff that applies to that service, the Authority may direct it to take the corrective measures it considers appropriate and  pay compensation for any expense incurred by a person adversely affected by its failure to apply the fares, rates, charges or terms and conditions set out in the tariff.”

 The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority said it wishes to advice all airline operators and stakeholders to discountenance the reports and continue to operate on the atmosphere of liberalisation and level playing field the Federal Government of Nigeria has put in place.

Delta Airlines to resume flights to Cuba

                                                                                                         Photo: Wikipedia

After decades of halt in the flight operations to Cuba, the United States’ Department of Transport has given a tentative approval to commence flights back to the country. One of the eight American airlines designated on the route is Delta Airlines (others are United Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines among others) . Delta Airlines said it will begin serving Havana, Cuba, this fall from New York-JFK, Atlanta and Miami as a result of  the announcement by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Delta applauds and thanks the DOT for awarding the airline the ability to resume operating daily, nonstop scheduled service to the Caribbean island for the first time in almost 55 years.

"Today has been a long-awaited moment to celebrate Delta's historic return to Cuba, and we thank Secretary Foxx, his team and the other U.S. officials for granting us the authority to provide Havana service from Atlanta, Miami and New York," said Nicolas Ferri, Delta's Vice President – Latin America and the Caribbean. "We look forward to providing the market with excellent customer and operational performance that will reunite families and support a new generation of travelers seeking to engage and explore this truly unique destination.

"Additionally, I'd like to commend the effort of our cross-divisional teams at Delta, who are working diligently to address the unique logistical challenges to reestablishing daily scheduled Havana service."

All routes are subject to Cuban regulatory approval. Delta will begin selling seats to Havana this summer.

Delta flights between New York-JFK and Havana will connect the New York City area, which includes the second-largest Cuban-American population, to Cuba's political, cultural and economic capital.

Atlanta's superior connecting gateway will provide one-stop access to Cuba via the nation's largest hub, with more seats, destinations and flights from Atlanta than any other carrier.

Delta's Miami-Havana flights will serve the largest population of Cuban-Americans in the U.S. Delta offers the second-most flights from Miami international airport.

Delta inherited passenger service to Havana, Cuba, from its merger with Chicago and Southern Air Lines (C&S) on May 1, 1953, offering nonstop flights from New Orleans. Political instability and profitability issues ultimately led Delta to suspend service on Dec. 1, 1961.

From 2002-2004 Delta operated charters between New York-JFK and Havana. In October 2011, Delta began operating up to a dozen charter flights to Havana per week with daily service from Miami and weekly service from Atlanta and New York-JFK. It operated almost 500 trips before suspending service on Dec. 29, 2012. Most recently, in 2015, Delta performed three ad hoc charter flights including one that carried the Minnesota Orchestra back to Cuba for its first performance on the island in more than 85 years.