Cardiff Aviation signs MoU to establish Djibouti's national carrier
Air Djibouti appointed Cardiff Aviation following a study which identified key markets for the national carrier based on the needs of landlocked neighbouring countries, governmental aid programmes around Africa, the support of military installations currently based in Djibouti and the need to deliver passengers to major international business hubs such as London and Dubai.
Under the terms of the MoU, Cardiff Aviation will implement and manage a European-level AOC for Air Djibouti, source aircraft, and provide world-class operational management for the new African national carrier.
The company will also provide MRO support from its stunning Twin Peaks facilities at St Athan - Cardiff Airport Aerospace Enterprise Zone, leading to a safe and efficient airline that will transform aviation in East Africa.
Bruce Dickinson, Chairman, Cardiff Aviation, says: “Djibouti is uniquely placed to provide a hub for investment from Europe, the Middle East and Asia into Africa. By providing full airline support and project implementation to Air Djibouti, Cardiff Aviation will bring a wealth of industry expertise and capability to one of the most exciting aviation markets in the world to spearhead growth in a region with tremendous potential.”
Initial operations will take the form of freight transportation, with aircraft already secured for this stage of development. Air Djibouti, however, aims to grow rapidly and be in a position to offer passenger transport to key markets in the very near future. The country intends to replicate its success in port logistics in the aviation sector, with plans to develop four new ports and two new airports to create a complete sea-air cargo network. Djibouti's current transport and logistics infrastructure programme exceeds $14 billion.
Aboubaker Omar Hadi, Chairman, Air Djibouti, says: “Cardiff Aviation’s unique blend of experience, innovative approach and quality facilities and relationship makes it the perfect support partner for developing a national carrier for our nation. We are looking forward to seeing the outcome of this agreement boost Djibouti’s international appeal and promote economic growth.”
