- Pakistani Airline Advances Plans for Interline Connectivity, Cargo, Operations and Professional Training
ADDIS ABABA: A delegation from South Air Pakistan, comprising AVM (Retd.) Ijaz Malik and Mr. Muhammad Fahad Naeem, visited the headquarters of Ethiopian Aviation in Addis Ababa, where it held high-level discussions on expanding cooperation with Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s leading aviation groups.
The delegation met Mr. Retta Melaku, Group Chief Operating Officer, for detailed discussions on potential areas of collaboration aimed at strengthening connectivity and creating new commercial and operational opportunities between Pakistan and Ethiopia. The talks explored a range of potential partnerships, including interline connectivity, air cargo operations, operational cooperation and future aviation services. The discussions highlighted the potential for closer cooperation between the two aviation markets, particularly in facilitating passenger and cargo connectivity and developing new opportunities for trade and business links between Pakistan, Ethiopia and wider African markets.
Strategic Investment in Aviation Skills
During the visit, the South Air delegation also held a meeting with the President of Ethiopian Aviation University, resulting in the signing of an agreement focused on the training and professional development of South Air personnel.
Under the agreement, South Air’s pilots, technicians, engineers and cabin crew will have opportunities for specialized training and professional development through Ethiopian Aviation University. The training partnership represents an important step in South Air’s efforts to enhance its human-resource capabilities and strengthen operational standards across its aviation workforce. By investing in specialized training and international aviation expertise, South Air aims to further develop the skills of its technical and operational teams while building a stronger foundation for future growth.
Building a Long-Term Aviation Partnership
The Addis Ababa meetings mark a significant step toward establishing a long-term aviation partnership between South Air Pakistan and Ethiopian Airlines.
The engagement reflects South Air’s growing focus on international cooperation, enhanced operational capabilities and expanded connectivity, while creating new avenues for Pakistan-Ethiopia aviation and commercial relations.
The emerging partnership is expected to open further possibilities in passenger connectivity, cargo transportation, aviation training and technical cooperation, strengthening links between Pakistan and Africa through the aviation sector.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
