Air Djibouti on-track towards official launch looks forward to serving Middle East

The new airline, established by the Government of Djibouti to support the development of the country as a regional hub for commercial  and logistics services, has confirmed that it will commence cargo operations later this year and add passenger services in 2016.

The airline has already secured aircraft for the launch of its cargo operations and is expected to announce further details of its freight operations in the coming weeks. Supporting the launch of its passenger operations, the airline last week signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cardiff Aviation. Under the terms of the MoU, Cardiff Aviation will implement and manage a European-level AOC for Air Djibouti, source aircraft, and provide operational, MRO and management support for the new African national carrier.

Aboubaker Omar Hadi, chairman, Air Djibouti, said: “The Government’s strategy for Djibouti and one of its Vision 2035 pillars is the development of the country as a regional logistics and commercial hub for trade in East Africa. The MoU signed with Cardiff  Aviation brings Djibouti not only one-step closer to having a flag carrier but to achieving this long-term strategic objective. We are looking forward to seeing the outcome of this agreement boost Djibouti’s international appeal and promote economic growth.”

Bruce Dickinson, chairman, Cardiff Aviation, said: “Djibouti is uniquely placed to provide a hub for investment from Europe, the Middle East and Asia into Africa. Cardiff Aviation will bring a wealth of industry expertise and capability to Air Djibouti in what is one of the most exciting aviation markets in the world helping the new national carrier to spearhead growth in a region with tremendous potential.”

Source : Arabian aerospace