Conference updated African Airlines with the latest technical information
Nairobi: November 2, 2009 -- African airlines converged in Nairobi this week for the first General Electric (GE) Aviation and CFM International organized a pan-African aviation technical conference, which was hosted by Kenya Airways. The conference discussed new developments in aviation and engine technologies, and flight operations for airline operators.
GE Aviation Sales Director for Africa, John Azzi, said the company is actively supporting the growth of African Airlines noting that the conference will help build local expertise by providing training on its latest technology. "GE Aviation is committed to the development of the aviation industry by providing innovative solutions to face their challenges in this tough global economic environment," he said.
Thirteen Airlines from across the continent participated in the conference. The airlines included Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles and Jetlink Express from East Africa. The other airlines in attendance included Arik Air (Nigeria), TAAG Angola Airlines, South African Express, Libyan Airlines, LAM -- Mozambique, Petro Air (Libya), SafAir/Aergo (South Africa) and TAP of Portugal.
GE Aviation Customer Support Manager for Africa, Dr. Catherine Salas, said the conference provided the latest technical information on GE and CFM products. The conference was unique in the fact that it included both the airline power plant engineer and pilot communities. "GE and CFM technical and diagnostics experts shared the technical information and troubleshooting techniques with the Airline Power Plant engineers to improve engine time on wing and reduce delays and cancellations. In addition, GE and CFM Flight Operations experts further educated the Airline pilots in the most efficient ways to operate the engines to reduce operating costs" she said.
GE is supporting Africa's aviation industry by supplying and maintaining aircraft engines. GE Aviation and CFM have sold over 300 engines ranging from the CF34, CFM56, CF6, GE90 to the GEnx in Africa. "We are pleased to play a key role in advancing Africa's aviation industry and are excited about the growth opportunities in the region," Azzi said.
About GE Aviation
GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as avionics, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings. For more information, visit us at www.ge.com/aviation.
About CFM International
CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between GE and Snecma (SAFRAN Group).
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Rania Rostom
Justus Waimiri