Gambia News : New airline storms Gambia

May 21,2008 00:00 by lamin

Intercontinental Airways will become the newest airline to storm Gambian aviation industry soon. The new airline's Managing Director boasts of "a safe and cost-effective" airline. "We have a commitment to maintain safety, that is why we choose The Gambia as the country's aviation is also effective," Captain Walter Okakpu briefed Gambian media.

With two 737 aircrafts, Intercontinental planes would fly to seven destinations, including Freetown, Dakar, Accra and Lome. It also plans to cover another seven destinations outside Africa - Ireland, Jedda, US, UK, Dubai, among others.

One of the airline's planes is expected to begin operations on 15 June 2008.

Mr Okakpu said Intercontinental whose slogan is ‘Connecting the World’has got a lot of innovative packages, including free flights, for its prospective customers. He also assured customers of "effective and reliable customer satisfaction."

"Initially we will be operating with foreign pilots while our pilots undergo training. This is a unique opportunity for those who want to work hard to come and join us," he said.

The airline said its tickets will be sold at its partner local banks. Its much cheaper tickets be bought on the internet.

Intercontinental has come at a time when air transport industry in Africa, particularly West Africa, is grappling with so many critical challenges.