More explanations have been given by the Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha on why his administration is floating a state-owned airline in partnership Dana Air.
In his remarks during the launch at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, (SMICA) Owerri, he said “This is a 10-year partnership between Dana Air and the Imo State Government and it is borne out of our desire to increase business activities in Imo state, improve tourism drive, diversify the economy of Imo state, and provide employment opportunities for Imolites”.
Elated Okorocha added further that “We have no Air Operator Certificate and that is why we approached one of the leading airlines in Nigeria to manage this service for us. We believe that our partnership with Dana Air to operate Imo Air is a step in the right direction to open Imo State to the world”.
“Also in the offing is the Imo International Cargo which targets to open the Southeast up to importers and exporters of all kinds of commodities, thereby reducing the over -reliance on Lagos, Kano and other international airports for the export and import of goods into the country. This initiative is no doubt a boost for the Southeast economic liberation.
Giving more insights to the deal, the Accountable Manager at Dana Air and son of the soil, Mr Obi Mbanuzuo averred that “We are delighted about this partnership, and we have no doubts that Imo Air is in safe hands, as the choice of Dana Air to operate Imo Air, was an excellent and well thought-out decision by the proactive governor of Imo State”.
“As you may be aware, Dana Air is the only domestic airline to have undergone an operational audit, conducted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and its foreign partners- The Flight Safety Group.
“Also, in our determination to meet the highest global aviation safety standards, Dana Air recently concluded its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) with a strong desire to move on to the next stage soon.
In his submission, he added that “Our continuous investment in human capital development, training and retraining of staff to meet the challenges of the industry has culminated in a dedicated, loyal, meticulous, pragmatic and highly motivated workforce”.
