FirstNation Airways to commence operations in May-2011

FirstNation Airways stated it plans to commence flight operations in May-2011 (The Punch, 13-Apr-2011). The carrier, which has acquired A320 aircraft for its launch, will initially service Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano. More routes will be added to its network as it takes delivery of more aircraft. The carrier would be headed by an expatriate COO/MD, while the board would be chaired by Kayode Odukoya, a former Managing Director of Bellview Airlines. The airline has selected an European Air Safety Agency 145 approved maintenance service provider to maintain its aircraft. Airbus, British Midland and Oxford Aviation Academy all provide training for engineers, pilots and cabin crew. NAHCO Aviance has been selected as handlers to support FirstNation after an extensive tender process.