Dana Air mulls return, new fleet, talks up fresh investment

• As CEO meets aviation minister

L-R: Jacky Hathiramani, chief executive officer, Dana Air; Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace management; and Hassan Grema, during Dana Air’s meeting with the minister in Abuja, recently

Mike Ochonma

Jacky Hathiramani, chief executive officer of Dana Air, meeting with Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, in Abuja, over the weekend, announced a significant step forward in the airline’s journey towards a vibrant resurgence and subsequent return to Nigeria’s airspace.

Dana Air was grounded in April this year by the ministry. The suspension of the airline came  on the heels of a runway excursion of one the airline’s MD 82 aircraft with 83 passengers and six crew members which veered off the runway into grassy areas of the Lagos Airport runway.

Minister Keyamo in a letter to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) directed the regulator to immediately suspend the operations of the airline because of recent incidents involving DANA Air, which he said have raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of its operations.

According to Hathiramani, Dana Air has made significant progress in its commitment to revitalise its operations and the board of the airline is currently in talks with a new investor who is also very eager to infuse fresh ideas, a different fleet of state-of the-art aircraft type and possibly new hires signalling a promising future for the airline and the industry as a whole.

He stated that in line with its vision for growth, innovation and excellence, Dana Air is eagerly anticipating the arrival of brand new aircraft, which will not only enhance its operational efficiency but also elevate the overall passenger experience.

This modern fleet of aircraft are set to redefine air travel standards, passenger comfort and safety and reinforce Dana Air’s position as a preferred choice for travellers across Nigeria.

“We are thrilled about the exciting developments on the horizon for us at Dana Air and with the support and commitment of our new investor who is likely to have a major stake, we are poised for a remarkable comeback that will exceed expectations and set new benchmarks in the aviation industry.”

Dana Air is one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, committed to providing safe, reliable, and customer-centric air transportation services. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and excellence, it strives to exceed passenger expectations while contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

The CEO expressed sincere apologies to the airline’s loyal customers and valued partners for the temporary absence from the market and any inconveniences that may have been experienced. However, he reassured them of Dana Air’s unwavering commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and customer-centric services upon return soon”.