Member Info for MikeGP

Https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/152148-nrt-gabon-recertifies-plans-fleet-expansion

03APR2025

"Gabon's NRT Nationale Régionale Transport (NRT Gabon) appears to be making a comeback, having recertified with the Gabonese civil aviation authority (Agence Nationale de l'Aviation Civile - ANAC). The authority announced that the airline had re-secured an air operator's certificate (AOC) on March 28, allowing it to resume commercial air services within the country and internationally.

NRT Gabon's managing director Anicet Dissouva disclosed an "imminent expansion" of the company's fleet. He said the airline aims to strengthen connectivity between the country's cities and increase the aviation sector's competitiveness, according to a statement from ANAC.

Founded as National Airways Gabon (2001) (Libreville Leon M'Ba) (2001-2009) by Mokhtar Mouketou Nehme, the company was rebranded as NRT Nationale Regionale Transport (2009) (2009-2018), before it was rebranded again to La Nationale in 2018.

However, its AOC and operating licence (OL) were revoked on November 28, 2018, following an ownership dispute. At the time it was operating two E120s on wet-lease from South Africa's Sahara African Aviation (Mbombela) on scheduled domestic flights.

According to the African aviation news site Newsaero, in March 2019 Gabon’s Ministry of Transport brokered an agreement to create two new entities - Nationale Régionale Transport (NRT) and Nationale Airways Gabon (NAG) - each required to independently apply for an AOC from ANAC.

On May 18, 2020, La Nationale/NAG recertified and planned to restart domestic operations towards the end of 2020. However, the nascent airline was affected when ANAC grounded several foreign-registered aircraft citing their Gabonese operators' failure to transfer them to the local registry by the end of July 2020. It ultimately never took flight amid the COVID-19 pandemic."

Some big-ish trades today----- Bed & Isa?

Https://x.com/wg_plc

"It was a pleasure to host His Excellency Jovilisi V. Suveinakama, High Commissioner of Fiji to the UK, for a productive meeting in London yesterday 🇫🇯.

We explored how Westminster Group’s products and solutions can support Fiji’s security infrastructure. Representing Westminster Group were Niall O'Brien, Lorraine Hellend, Mick Oxlade, and @Kishan_Devani. Very Grateful for the time and insights shared by His Excellency – we look forward to building on this dialogue."

Note: Mick Oxlade-- Technical Sales Manager-

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https://www.apacoutlookmag.com/supply-chain/fiji-airports-the-pacific-aviation-gateway#2025-upgrade-plans

"Since Mesake Nawari assumed the role of CEO of Fiji Airports 18 months ago, the company has continued to grow and develop.

A year on from when we last spoke, important capital projects have resumed across the company’s 15 sites, alongside the replacement of aging assets.

“I’m glad I joined at an exciting and crucial time when changes were needed to further modernise our airports,” Nawari opens.

Fiji Airports’ refreshed perspective for 2025 includes cultivating a new vision, building a dynamic team, developing sustainability, and strengthening diversity and social inclusion.

At the heart of it all, the company’s 25-year Nadi Airport Airside Master Plan (NAAMP), endorsed by the Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, is paving the way forward.

Designed to cater for growing passenger and cargo traffic and aligned with Fiji Airports’ vision to become a world-class aviation hub, NAAMP is set to cost around USD$1 billion and will be one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the country.

Meanwhile, the company’s new 10-year strategic plan, which runs until 2034, will further support this transformational journey, including developments in infrastructure, digitalisation, financial growth, stakeholder and community engagement, and sustainability. "

Txs to Esteban on X:

Boeing 737-8 MAX - typically has a capacity of 162-178 passengers in a two-class configuration. The maximum seating capacity can be 210 passengers.

3 flights a week.. ie 156 flights/annum.... at say,... 100peeps ..ie 50-60% occupancy= 15,600 pax at 25$/head= circa $400K--- £350k straight to our bottom line,.... recurring......

"Air Sierra Leone, XEJet Limited subsidiary, will launch its long-anticipated Freetown-London Gatwick service on June 16, 2025, reviving a vital route that had been dormant since British Airways suspended operations in September 2014 during the Ebola outbreak. The airline plans to operate three weekly flights using a wet-leased Boeing 737-8 MAX from Ascend Airways, a strategic move to navigate around the EU airspace ban on Sierra Leonean-registered carriers. Meanwhile, the market has also drawn interest from Zuri Sky Ltd, an embryonic start-up that announced similar ambitions in February, though serious doubts remain over the viability of its

launch.

Full Story (fr/en)"

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https://simpleflying.com/london-gets-longest-boeing-737-flights-with-new-airline-arrival/

It took a while, but Air Sierra Leone has confirmed flights to London. It is a new airline with the IATA code YD. After an initial Freetown to London Gatwick round-trip service in April, a regular operation using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Ascend Airways will begin in June. Due to Air Sierra Leone's UK ban, its operating permit is conditional on using a UK operator.

Https://africanpilot.africa/airport-and-runway-expansion-in-africa-africas-aviation-revolution/

"Passenger traffic across Africa is projected to double to 300 million annually by 2040, with increasing interest in the continent for both business and tourism. Countries across Africa are beginning to focus on enabling this growth in travel, investing heavily in modernising and expanding airport infrastructure.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), air traffic in Africa is expected to grow at an average rate of 5.7% per year through to 2034, making airport development crucial for economic growth, tourism, and regional connectivity. Below is a look at some of the most significant expansion projects across the continent, designed to increase access for travel to and from Africa."

Looks like some ISA B&B trades over the past few days..

Yep... 15yrs (min) at circa £4m/annum .

.... Tema..... might be first..

.. and as reported in Africanews..

https://www.africanews.com/2025/04/04/us-holds-talks-with-kinshasa-on-developing-the-dr-congos-mineral-resources//

An official in US President Donald Trump’s administration says it is in talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo about developing its mineral resources.

Without providing any further details, his senior advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, said the potential deal could involve “multibillion-dollar investments”.

Boulos met with DRC President , Felix Tshisekedi, in Kinshasa on Thursday amid speculation of a possible minerals-for-security deal.

The US senior advisor said they had reviewed the Congo's proposal and that he was “pleased to announce that the president and I have agreed on a path forward for its development”.

American companies would be “operating transparently” and would “stimulate local economies", Boulos said.

The Congo is the world’s largest producer of cobalt, a mineral used to make lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and smartphones.

It also has substantial gold, diamond, and copper reserves.

The country is facing an insurgency by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in the east where many of the minerals are found.

The region faces a dire humanitarian situation with the displacement of more than seven million people and a record number facing acute hunger.

Tshisekedi says the US deal could help make his country safer.

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All bodes well for the WSG contract which can only be strengthened by closer ties between the DRC and USA, which will be underwritten by multi-billion dollar investment in country. This will further underpin the DRC's intention to improve international air travel in and out of the country in terms security and compliance with International regulatory standards which will in turn lead to growth in passenger volume

Https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cp34140qkw0o

4th April 2025

The US and the Democratic Republic of Congo are in talks over a minerals deal in the resource-rich central African nation, according to a senior US official.

"You have heard about a minerals agreement. We have reviewed the Congo's proposal. I am happy to announce that the president and I have agreed on a path forward for its development," US senior adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos, said after meeting Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa.

Mr Boulos, who is Tiffany Trump's father-in-law, did not expand further on the proposals, but did indicate the involvement of US firms.

"Rest assured, American companies are operating transparently and will stimulate local economies," he said.

Https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2025/04/03/martyns-law-factsheet/

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent on Thursday 3 April 2025.

This Act delivers the Government’s manifesto commitment to strengthen the security of public events and venues.

The Government would like to pay tribute to Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack.  Her campaigning has been crucial in driving this Act forward.  

... why they want us back..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpP8mJNpIQs

To get some idea of the potential 'market'--- the ongoing training,... element, which the govenerment suggests should be undertaken every two years,... for the "Standard and Enhanced'..operations is estimated to come in at--£260M.

P 34- The Home Office Impact assessment.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66e30684e47cfc6de429d612/TPOP_Signed_IA.pdf

So this is a significant opportunity for WSG,... and we Have Figen Murray appointed on the WSG Advisory Board.

Following on from Dr M.

'Proposed legislation aimed at preventing and reducing the harm of terror attacks at events venues has moved a step closer to becoming law, almost eight years after the Manchester Arena bombing.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, known as Martyn's Law, will now be sent for Royal Assent after MPs supported amendments put forward by the House of Lords.

Under Martyn's Law, staff at all UK venues with a capacity of more than 200 people would undergo evacuation training, and sites with more than 800 people would need extra measures such as CCTV or security staff."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cqjdnp85d24o

AND.... our relationship with Figen Murray, with whom have worked and supported through this process:

6 Feb 2025 07:00

RNS Number : 0891W

Westminster Group PLC

06 February 2025

Westminster Group Plc

('Westminster', the 'Group' or the 'Company')

Figen Murray Joins Westminster Group International Advisory Board

Westminster Group Plc (AIM: WSG), a leading supplier of managed services and technology-based security solutions worldwide, is pleased to announce that Figen Murray OBE, has joined the Westminster Group International Advisory Board.

Figen is a powerful voice in security, counterterrorism, and public safety and has been the driving force behind Martyn's Law, a landmark initiative dedicated to enhancing security measures and protecting public spaces from the threat of terrorism.

Figen's advocacy stems from personal tragedy - on 22nd May 2017, her son, Martyn Hett, was one of 22 people killed in the devastating Manchester Arena terrorist attack. Determined to prevent such tragedies in the future, Figen has worked tirelessly to improve security legislation and raise awareness of the need for greater public safety measures.

Her insight, determination, and deep commitment to safeguarding lives align perfectly with Westminster Group's mission to keep people safe.

Commenting on Figen Murray's Appointment, Westminster's CEO, Peter Fowler, said:

"I am both honoured and delighted Figen has agreed to be part of the Westminster Group International Advisory Board.

"Like so many people I have been impressed by Figen's determination and stamina in relentlessly driving the campaign for Martyn's Law and without her outstanding achievements this essential piece of legislation, now going through its final stages, would never have come about.

"Martyn's Law will enhance public safety by ensuring the public are better protected and businesses are better prepared for terrorist activity, something that is increasingly necessary, and it is sad that it has taken a tragedy and Figen's remarkable energy to bring it about.

"I am confident that by working together with Figen we will help ensure the full benefits of Martyn's Law are delivered."

"Westminster Group plc has signed a 15+ year contract to provide security services at four Gabonese airports, including three international and one domestic airport. The agreement, signed during the National Council for Security and Facilitation of Civil Aviation of Gabon in Libreville, grants Westminster an initial 15-year contract with a five-year renewal option. The deal aims to strengthen aviation security across Gabon, aligning with international safety and regulatory standards.

The South African Civil Aviation Authority ( SACAA ) has updated its Passenger Safety Charge (EV) and Fuel Levy, effective April 1, 2025. The EV charge on airline tickets will increase from R30.77 to R32.19 per passenger, reflecting a 4.6% inflationary adjustment. The fuel levy has also been revised to R0.2286 per litre, applying to all manufactured, distilled, imported, or sold aviation fuel in South Africa. These adjustments aim to support aviation safety programs and regulatory oversight in the country."

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/africa-weekly-aviation-trails-week-10-2025-aerotrail-yvnpf?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse

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Could the Passenger Safety Charge (EV)... be the charged that we were waiting on to be agreed? Due to become effective 1st April 2025?

AIR TANZANIA COMPANY LIMITED is set to launch a direct Dar es Salaam–Kinshasa route from March 26, 2025, with four weekly flights operated by the Airbus A220-300. This move strengthens trade, tourism, and connectivity between Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/africa-weekly-aviation-trails-week-11-2025-aerotrail-hyiyf

Morning Dr M,

You'd hope that 5 meetings and Banbury visit, post the security review, had more to it than just a coffee and bun!

If it did lead to an MSC,. including Nadi International Airport... ( which would seem like the starting point)-- that would be very exciting.

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https://www.airportsfiji.com

"Nadi International Airport welcomes more than 2.1 million international passengers and close to 300,000 domestic passengers annually. It also handles over 1.3 million tons of freight, services 20 airlines and connects Fiji to 15 cities, internationally. Nadi International Airport also provides an international standard shopping and dining experience for both International and Domestic travellers."

If any contract were to follow the SL/DRC/GABON.. principle... ie security charge based upon Passenger Departures-- I guess we would be looking at circa 2M x 50%........ ie 1Mpax...... x $24 tax. = $24/annum--- circa £18M.

Which would clearly be a HUGE MSC contract for WSG.

Fingers Crossed.

Dr M,..

Yes.. a lot of dialogue/meetings ..in the past few months,... there must be more to thiis than a few lunch dates,... another MSC..or even Training Contract,.. would be a bonus,.not on then radar,...

Https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c789v32r4pyo

Lord Hanson said: "This bill is a tribute to those victims and to the victims of other terrorist attacks. They will never ever be forgotten."

He added: "Members will be aware, of course, of the campaigning work of Figen Murray and her team. We would not be here today without her and her team.

Conservative Lord Davies of Gower said: "The effectiveness of this legislation will be determined not by the words on the page alone but by how well it is put into practice.

"Adequate resources, training and advice must be provided to ensure that compliance is achievable."

He added: "The bill represents a significant and necessary step in our ongoing efforts to protect the public from the scourge of terrorism."