Despite the numerous challenges such as scarcity of foreign exchange and aviation fuel, the management of Uganda Airlines has shown an interest in entering Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem by December 2022.
The flight route to Lagos is scheduled to begin by the end of this year while the flight route to Abuja will commence by the beginning of 2023.
According to the CEO of Uganda Airlines, Jenifer Bamuturaki, the scheduled flight from Uganda to Lagos will be the company’s first flight to West Africa. She, therefore, acknowledged the importance of partnering with domestic stakeholders to ensure smooth operation.
“When we come to Nigeria, we will be working through recognized travel agents and tour operators,” she noted.
The CEO who spoke at the 18th edition of Akwaaba Africa travel and tourism market held in Lagos used the occasion to encourage more women to aspire for leadership positions.
She admitted that it is highly gratifying that she is occupying a leadership position in a male-dominated industry.
“It is not easy for women because it is a male-dominated society, we have more men flying, more men doing dispatch, and fewer women.
“Most women want to go for the easy area which is cabin crew but I want to encourage women to look at the other side which is the administration and leadership areas, it is fulfilling but difficult.” She stated.
Meanwhile, the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSSAN) which had earlier gone on strike has called it off.
Investors King could recall that the association embarked on a peaceful protest that blocked access to Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA2) Terminal.
This therefore temporarily led to the disruption of flight schedules. The body was protesting against the dismissal of more than 30 members of the association.
Some of the airlines which were affected by the protest include Ibom Air and Air Peace. Both airlines were forced to stop operations while notices of flight disruption were sent to passengers.
A message sent to Air peace customers read, “We greatly regret the impact of this unexpected action on your day’s plans as we urge you to kindly stay close to all our communication channels for subsequent updates”.