* Pix Source : socialmeep.com
,,,Says It Experienced Strong Passenger Demand Despite The Break
Firstnation Airways said that it has resumed flight operations today Sunday , September 18,2016.
An online statement signed by an official of the airline from the Corporate Affairs,Rasheed Yusuff and made available to journalists said, “We are delighted to inform you that our operation is back. Flight commenced on Sunday, September 18, 2016 with very strong passenger demand despite the break. This patronage reinforces the strength of our brand and the quality of our service. We received ground swell of support from the flying public during our maintenance break and this tremendous support has been humbling experience to all of us at Firstnation.”
The statement added that since the airline launched flight operations in 2013, it has built a respectable followership and rated consistently as market leader on safety standard and schedule integrity on the routes that we serve.
The statement further stated that this reputation was reinforced by Firstnation’s achievement of International Air Transport Association (IATA)Operational Safety Audit(IOSA) certification ;the airline industry global bench mark for world class safety standard) in 2015 within record time of 12 months.
The achievement of IOSA certification by Firstnation in 12 months of application, the statement ,aid remains unrivaled in West and Central Africa.
“The Airline reaffirms its commitment to her flight operations and remains bullish about Nigeria’s economic outlook and her operations. We are currently working on expanding our fleet as well” The statement further reads.
Abelnews recalled that Firstnation suspended operations on September 2,2016 barely 24 hours after the oldest domestic airline in the country ;Aero shut down its fixed wing operations.
The airline while reacting to the suspension of operations said that “First Nation is currently undergoing maintenance on A319 fleet. This maintenance exercise will be completed on or before September 15, 2016. The airline planned this maintenance action well ahead, notified passengers and flights are currently loaded online effective September 15, 2016.”
The airline continued, “This will ensure that passengers continue to enjoy safe and reliable service that the airline is reputed for. Current foreign exchange constraint, coupled with over 70 percent devaluation of Naira partly contributed in no small measure to the development. The airline’s plan remains on track to reinstating service as advised herein.”
