ENTEBBE – National Aviation Services (NAS) Uganda, formerly Entebbe Handling Services Limited (ENHAS), has revealed that they will provide ground handling services to Uganda Airlines subsequent to the arrival of the two new Bombardier CJ900 aircraft as Uganda revamps the national carrier.
The revival of Uganda Airlines signifies a new era for the aviation industry in the country and will help boost international trade as well as travel and tourism.
“The aviation industry in Uganda has a lot of scope for development, especially with the upgrade and expansion of the Entebbe International Airport and now the revival of its national carrier. Our experience at NAS has proven that aviation growth is linked to economic development and prosperity and it won’t be long before we see Entebbe becoming an aviation hub,” said Mr. Philippe Lacroix, General Manager – NAS Uganda
With a presence in more than 40 airports across the Middle East, Asia and Africa, NAS is the fastest growing aviation services provider in the emerging markets offering a wide portfolio of services and demonstrated expertise in supporting hub carriers and providing ground handling services to seven of the world’s top ten airlines.
Boasting of a workforce of over 750 employees- all Ugandan nationals, NAS Uganda has handled 15 scheduled airlines and an average of 25 flights daily for various regional and international airlines.
Its training school has been recognized as a Top Performing IATA Accredited Training School (ATS) in Africa and the Middle East for four years in a row.
Following the official launch of Uganda Airlines’ commercial operations, NAS Uganda will continue to offer ground handling services and will also support training, development, business strategy and other operations.
“At the beginning of this year, NAS earmarked $50 million towards investments in Africa for infrastructure, resources, equipment, training, technology, safety and security developments as we remain the largest ground handler in Entebbe working closely with the CAA to improve the passenger experience,” said Phillipe.
He added:
“This has contributed to reducing pollution from combustible fuels by introducing electric vehicles at the airport. We look forward to sharing our knowledge and expertise with Uganda Airlines to help them in their local and regional operations.”
Besides handling services, NAS Uganda also partnered with the Rotary Club in Entebbe to build an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Entebbe General Referral Hospital to serve people living in the area and travellers at the airport.
This development makes yet another milestone in the rejuvenation of the aviation industry in an effort to boost competitiveness for Uganda as a tourism destination.
