Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon and Dill


I have some time off before I have to go back to work, so I plan to work on getting some more meal plan posts and dinner meals written before I do.  In the meantime, I have one more appie recipe for you before the big New Year's Eve celebration.

I made these babies for a potluck bash quite awhile ago and I'm lucky I showed up to the party with a (mostly) full plate!  I had to taste test them for quality control and it was hard to stop myself after I popped one in my mouth.  Smoked salmon works so well when it's blended with creamy things like mayo or cream cheese and the honey mustard and fresh dill all come together to be serious friends.

The other thing I love about this dish is that smoked salmon usually comes in 8 ounce packages.  Since this recipe uses only one ounce of smoked salmon, you can stretch one package into two recipes by then making Smoked Salmon, Horseradish and New Potato Salad or Linguine Alfredo with Smoked Salmon.

Recipe from Eat, Shrink and Be Merry
__________________________________________________________________________________

Makes 16 deviled eggs



8 large eggs
1/4 cup smoked salmon, minced (about 1 oz)
2 tbsp light mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp honey mustard
1 tbsp fresh dill
1/4 tsp hot sauce
Salt and pepper

Place eggs in a large saucepan.  Cover with at least 1 inch of cold water and heat to boiling over high heat.  Remove the saucepan from the heat.  Let stand covered for 18 minutes.  Immediately pour off the hot water from the eggs, then run cool water over them for several seconds to prevent them cooking any further.  Drain and let cool.  Once cool, peel the eggs.

Carefully slice the cooked eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks.  Place yolks in a medium bowl and mash well with a fork.  Add remaining ingredients and mix well.  Using a small spoon, or a pastry bag with a large tip (or even a ziplock bag with the corner cut off), fill the centers of eggs with egg mixture, mounding slightly.  Place a small piece of fresh dill on top of each egg or sprinkle with paprika, if desired.  Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.  


__________________________________________________________________________________

THE RESULTS?
I freaking love these things!  You need some prep time to make them, but they really aren't hard at all.  Once the eggs are boiled, they take maybe 5 minutes to assemble.  Soooooo worth it for your next potluck or party!

Jet4You Cabin Crew Recruitment

Morocco's first low cost private airline Jet4You is currently accepting applications for cabin crew positions.
Read More:
Jet4You PR:

Our customers are at the heart of our business and we endeavour to offer them an outstanding service, this is why we are recruiting Cabin Crew Members who will become part of our success.

Jet4You Cabin Crew




Cabin Crew Members : minimum requirements and qualifications
- In possession of a baccalaureate (preference will be given to BAC+2 or higher level)
- Aged 21+
- In possession of a valid CSS* or equivalent to the Moroccan CAA
- In possession of a valid passport
- Medically fit to carry out specified cabin crew duties
- Fluent in English and in French, any other languages are welcome.
* The CSS is valid 18 months after obtaining
You have an elegant and friendly appearance; you are hardworking, calm and efficient in difficult situations. You are able to work on week ends, holidays and missions abroad; you are safety-oriented, service minded and you like working with people.
Terms and conditions:
Type contract: fixed term contract during 3 months
Working time: full time
How to apply?
You think you are made for the job?
Send your CV and your cover letter in English by e-mail to hr@jet4you.com
Offer ends on January 15th 2012
 

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Tandoori Prawns / Shrimps



Ingredients :
  • 7-8 Pieces of Jumbo Prawns
  • ¼ cup Yogurt
  • 1 tsp Tandoori Masala
  • 1 tsp Chili powder
  • ½ tsp Turmeric
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 1 tsp Garlic and ginger paste
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp chopped coriander leaves
  • Salt to taste

Method :
Mix yogurt, salt, tandoori powder, chili powder, coriander powder, garlic/ginger paste, olive oil, and turmeric powder together. Then add shrimp to the yogurt mixture and marinate for 4 hrs or overnight. Grill the shrimp on a grill pan or on an outdoor grill until done.Garnsih with coriander leaves and serve.

TAAG Angola Airlines Domestic Network, 2011


TAAG Angolan Airlines serves ten cities across the Republic's mainland territory from its hub at Luanda's Quatro de Fevereiro Airport, as well the northern, oil-rich exclave of Cabinda. 
 
Article Courtesy: The Timetablist blog
 
 Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

TAAG Angola's African Routes in 2011

While TAAG serves several underserved African cities, particularly Bangui and Sao Tome, there are a number of gaps in its African network to be filled in, including several of the continent's most important air hubs, namely Nairobi, Lagos, Addis Ababa, Accra, Entebbe, Cairo and Dakar. Tiny Lusophone Bissau would also be a possible addition.

Luanda has the potential to be a conduit for traffic between Western and Southern Africa, funneling West Africans into the continent's southern cone. But this has yet to materialize. Presumably, TAAG functions on premium origin and destination traffic to fuel its booming economy.
 
 


Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

TAAG Angola's International Network 2011

Fast-growing TAAG Angolan Airlines has rebounded in the past decade, first from the aftermath of the country's long civil war, and secondly from a two-year European Union ban, which blacklisted the airline from European airspace from 2007 to 2009.

Today, TAAG boasts an all-new fleet flying to five continents, including service to Portuguese-speaking Brazil and Cape Verde, and its old ally Cuba (how long this route will be worthwhile is another question), as well as five cities in Europe and an Asian route stretching to Dubai and Beijing (which alternates with Hainan Airlines's identical routing). 
 
 

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Ethiopian Airlines: The Eastern and Southern African Routes 2011

Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines has long been the premier carrier of the African continent. Prior to the establishment of many state carriers (or even the independence of some African nations), the wings of the Lion of Judah was lauded for its technical proficiency and service.

The airline has not let time, and the development of other formidable African airlines (especially neighboring Kenya Airways), diminish its presence of the continent or its standing as a global carrier. Many African countries lack a home airline or flag carrier, and in the rapid consolidation of airlines around global alliances, it is the largest operations that seem destined to retain their identities. Ethiopian is unquestionably well-positioned as a regional, continental, and global airline.



Over the next four posts, Timetablist will detail Ethiopian Airlines current planet-wide network, which reaches four continents, including an impressive presence in Europe and growing service to China.

In this first post, the headquarters hub at Addis Ababa's Bole Airport pulls in passengers from across Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa.


Post Courtesy: The Timetablist
Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Ethiopian Airlines International Route Map 2011

Ethiopian continues to have more comprehensive services across Asia than its regional rival, Kenya Airways. Riyadh, Kuwait, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Tel Aviv and Beirut are all exclusive to Ethiopian and reflect the country's links with the entire Gulf region, including Israel. 

Likewise, whereas Kenya Airways serves only Mumbai, Ethiopian serves Delhi (curiously, here marked "New Delhi") and from there on to Beijing, which is one of four cities in East Asia. Remarkably, it was recently announced that Ethiopian will add a fourth Chinese city, Hangzhou, to its route map in 2011.


Post courtesy: The Timetablist
Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Nigerian Aviation: Is Nigeria Ready for a new national carrier?

WOLE SHADARE writes that for many countries, the national airline is a national symbol in itself, and a number of countries have developed a reputation for excellent service in their national airlines. One can also argue that the United States is one of the few countries in the world without a national airline. So, the debate goes on. Does Nigeria need a national carrier?

THE call for a national carrier is becoming louder by the day. And the call seems to be enjoying the support of many stakeholders.
Nigeria Airways ceased operations in 2003
 Although there are those who hold the view that the sector does not need to expend so much energy and fund to pursue what they believe could end up the way of the liquidated Nigeria Airways.
They posited that the 13 flag carriers could equally fill the gap created by the absence of a functional national airline.

This argument is valid, but the question is, has any of the designated Nigerian airlines really done well to earn the respect of Nigerian travellers? The answer is no. For obvious reasons, these airlines have not been able to compete with their foreign counterparts that have dominated the country’s airspace.

The existing Nigerian flag carriers do not have the type of branding that can sell them outside the shores of the country to reflect Nigerian. Their identity outside Nigerian airspace is not only opaque ,but non-existent; the reason they record very abysmal load factor on routes regarded as very lucrative.

The Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah-Ogiewonyi has not hidden her desire to give the country a functional, respected national carrier. She however disclosed that the Federal Government was already working on the legal framework for the floating of a new airline.

Can Nigeria build a new flag carrier from the ashes of Nigeria Airways?
Just this week, she further disclosed that the airline would be established next year.

The minister reportedly said there had been calls for a new national carrier to boost the nation’s image internationally and to realise the dream of making Nigeria an air transport hub.

She said they were working on a national carrier that will be publicly owned with limited financial contribution by the government, with government acting as a regulator and provide an enabling environment for this objective to be achieved.

“We recently reviewed the models of national carriers in other countries and we are working on the best solution for Nigeria. We are working to deliver the national carrier by next year.”

There are indications that the government may buy over one of the leading Nigerian carriers that is already wobbling on its international operations, privatise it and run it professionally like British Airways, Air France, Virgin Atlantic, Kenya Airways and others that have become very profitable.

In Europe, these airlines were previously owned by governments, before they were privatized. A good example is BA.

The minister may have been encouraged to go on with her dream, considering that a well respected and privatised national airline could help project the image of Nigeria outside Nigeria, help the country to partake in the huge aviation market and international foreign relations.

Many have equally expressed the fear that the ‘Nigeria factor’ bug may render this project not workable, except the government is ready to only provide the regulatory framework to make it work.

President, Sabre Travel Network and former Executive Director, Bellview Airlines, Mr. Gabriel Olowo described the development as a drift in policy implementation if a new national airline becomes a reality in 2012.

“We must be wary of any future attempt to favor the new National airline to the detriment of the existing flag carriers similar to the discriminatory treatment meted out by government to the defunct Virgin Nigeria which threw the airline into early crisis that made its principal promoter Richard Branson to eventually divest his interest”.

Aviation consultant, Mr. Cris Azu Aligbe had thrown his weight the move for a national carrier with the provision that it must be professionally run as a privatized entity.

He noted that no Nigerian airline has the capacity to fill in the gap, adding that with a national airline in place, reported capital flight will be greatly reduced, just as he painted a very gloomy picture even for an airline that pride itself as the biggest airline in West Africa.

Many are of the opinion that national carrier project can work in Nigeria, only if government go about it in a very transparent manner, devoid of the usual lackadaisical attitude attached to running companies in Nigeria
 Republished from Nigeria Guardian News
Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Airlines Jostling for Nigeria's Burgeoning Aviation Market

Nigeria is a market that cannot be ignored and its travel industry has been growing in leaps and bounds particularly in the business travel sector. Of the African population that now flies across the continent, Nigerians constitute the vast majority.

Many Nigerians have invested in other African countries and in the recent years, Nigerian businesses and corporations have stretched their wings to newer markets in Africa. Apart from business, Nigeria also has a huge diaspora in addition to a huge student number of students studying broad. While traffic in areas such as eastern Africa, Southern Africa and North Africa is often driven by tourism, the Nigerian traffic is very mulch-faceted.  The movement of Nigerians within Africa and from Africa to countries in the Middle East, Far East and Europe means Nigeria will remain the most important aviation market in Africa.

Apart from European and Middle Eastern Carriers, African airlines are also intent on gaining an advantage of the Nigerian aviation pie, particularly Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. Kenya Airways especially has a very strong West African network with the airline servicing almost all the major cities of West Africa including Accra, Abidjan, Bamako, Dakar, Banjul, Cotonou, Douala, Yaounde, Monrovia and Freetown. Data from Innovata shows that West Africa is Kenya Airways biggest market with over 27,000 seats per week followed by Eastern Africa.

The airline is also expected to service all the major North African cities with the addition of Tripoli and Tunis with the exception Algiers and the cities in Morocco. Although the two countries enjoy warm diplomatic ties with Nairobi, there's little trade between Kenya and the two countries.

Nigeria's private carrier Arik Air has also been emerging to face stiff competition from carriers from Europe and the Middle East.

Airlines are making huge profits on the Nigerian routes in spite of the decaying aviation infrastructure in the country, an issue that caused a major standoff between the Nigerian Civil aviation authorities and the British airlines British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. An issue that forced high level goernment offocials from both countries to come face to face and resolve the standoff.

This year was a turning point in the course of aviation in the country as a new hands on aviation Minister took over with promises to rebuild infrastructure and confidence in the nation's aviation industry. At last there is an assurance from government that something is being done. But it seems Nigeria's aviation infrastructure is not dampening the spirits of global airlines eager to a grab share of the oil producer's large business travel market.

Two American airlines are already competing for the Nigerian aviation market. Delta Airlines improved its product offering early this year for Nigerian passengers by investing part of the $2 billion earmarked for upgrading global service delivery in upgrading its air service delivery to Nigeria. This will include rolling out full flat bed BusinessElite on flights between Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and New York-JFK, via Accra, Ghana. United Airlines also launched flights from Houston Airport to Lagos in November in November operating a B777.

Middle Eastern giant Emirates has also been running profitable operations for some time now. The Nigerian travel market is definitely ripe for the taking and will continue to see a fierce battle as various carriers jostle for a share of the market.




Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

White Bean Dip with Rosemary and Roasted Garlic with Spiced Pita Chips


Ahhhhhhh.  That's me sighing in relief that the busyness of Christmas is over and I have two full weeks off from teaching.  After all that rich food, I thought a nice healthy (addicting) appetizer as an idea for New Year's was in order.  Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the cream cheese laden spinach dips and the full fat sour cream chip dip (heck I'm still eating coconut tarts from my freezer with a big dollop of Cool Whip leftover from Christmas), but there's something about eating healthy food that doesn't taste healthy that I just love.  This white bean dip is very similar to hummus, but the flavors are so fresh and exciting from the lemon and rosemary.  The combination of the spicy pita chips with the dip is fantastic.  


__________________________________________________________________________________
serves 12 as an appetizer


White Bean Dip with Rosemary and Roasted Garlic
2 15.5oz. cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1-2 heads of whole roasted garlic (recipe follows)
3 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
the grated zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

In a food processor, combine all ingredients except salt and pepper; process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with fresh vegetables or pita chips.


Roasted Garlic
1 head garlic
1 tablespoon olive oil

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Cut the top third of the garlic head off so that the tops of the cloves are exposed and place on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle with oil and cover completely with foil.  Bake for 45 minutes to an hour until soft and golden brown. Cool. Squeeze the roasted garlic from each of the cloves and mash into a paste. Store any additional roasted garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator.


Spiced Pita Chips
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
6 pita breads, cut into 8 wedges each.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Combine the olive oil and spices in a large bowl. Add the pita wedges and toss to coat. Spread the wedges in a single layer on two baking sheets and bake, tossing once, until the pitas are brown and crisp, about 10-15 minutes (mine seem to cook quicker). Cool.  Serve with white bean dip.

These will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days.


Click here for printable version of White Bean Dip with Rosemary and Roasted Garlic with Spiced Pita Chips
__________________________________________________________________________________

RESULTS?
I've made this recipe soooo many times over the last couple years and love it so much.  When my brother in law and his wife had their twins, I went and stayed with them to help them out and cook for them.  They love hummus, so I made tons of different variations, but this recipe was one of the favorites, especially with the spicy chips.  The dip tastes fantastic smoothed on wraps or inside pita bread with chicken and lettuce and other veggies.   I made a Rosemary Marmalade Ham last night for a family dinner and still have some fresh rosemary in my fridge.  Writing this post has given me a serious craving for this dip, so I think I'll have to add it to my grocery list!

One note about the pita chips: start checking them after about 8 minutes.  In my oven 15 minutes is WAY too long, yet it was fine when I was cooking at my brother-in-law's house.  You want them lightly golden and crispy.

Meal Ideas:

Airline Route Maps: A look at South African Airways in 2011

South African Airways is connecting all the six continent's with flights to Australia, South America, North America, Europe  South Asia and East Asia but its African network is not as developed as its other fierce competitors, Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. South African Airways has indicated that it plans to focus on developing its African network together with Eastern and Western networks.

Of course this route map does not include three times weekly flights to Beijing which will be launched in January 2012 following the delay in securing slots at the Beijing's Capital International Airport. South African Airways will be flying to Beijing for the first time in its 77 year history. Beijing, together with many African countries, were of course hostile to SAA during its apartheid years. The launch of South Africa's flights to Beijing will also be very historic in the sense that it allows South Africa to connect Chinese Passengers to Brazil via Johannesburg thus connecting three important BRICS nations, the others being India and Russia.

Historic Flight: For the first time in its 77 year history, South African Airways will be flying to Beijing
 In 2011, South African Airways launched flights to three new destinations: Kigali, Bujumbura, Cotonou(an extension of SAA’s existing Libreville (Gabon) service).
South African Airways Route Map Courtesy AirlineRouteMaps.com

South African Airways Regional Route Map 2011: Courtesy AirlineRouteMaps.com

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Airline Route Maps: Kenya Airways African Network, mid 2009


It's almost the end of the year and I will be featuring some past and current route maps  from major African carriers for easier comparison on how the airlines are faring with their network development plans. This is Kenya Airways route map in mid 2009 indicating the airlines vision to be a true Pan African carrier. Of course so much has changed in the last two years and Kenya Airways route map of 2011 is richer. There is more density in West Africa and Central Africa.

I wish somebody at Kenya Airways could send me the scanned copy of Kenya Airways route map in third quarter of 2011 to spare me hours of designing one.

Image Courtesy: The Timetablist

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Special Offer: Advertise on Flight Africa Blog

In 2010 Flight Africa Blog reached over 50,000 readers interested in African Aviation with our regular and compelling coverage of the African aviation scene. In our 3 year journey, our posts have been read by over 160,000 readers; and we have continued to attract dedicated readers . Our subscribers and readers include airlines, travel agents, aviation industry analysts, journalists, aviation professionals, travelers, aviation enthusiasts and more.

In 2010, Flight Africa Blog was voted third in the Launch of the Year Category after Bombardier and AirTransparency by reputed aviation Magazine, Flight International during its Webbies Awards. According to the judges, Flight Africa Blog is "A refreshing initiative which gives African aviation a fresh, professional voice. Traffic is relatively low but building and the enthusiasm and ambition of the team shows through.This site has great potential in what is after all the next big thing in growth markets."

What we Offer Advertisers

-  Publish news relevant to a global audience of aviation industry professionals with a focus on Africa
- Circulate fee based media releases and advertorial stories to reach, trade, journalists and consumers.
- Post text links on our articles, website sidebar and at many other positions for high conversion.
- Post ads and banners on our web portals.
- Interact with social media: We have over 18,000 followers on our Twitter handles @FlightAfrica and @FlyEU.

Join us in 2012 as we embark on a new journey and strive to reach newer audiences and markets in Africa and beyond. Email us today at contact@flight-africa.com for a 2012 Advertising Special Offer for the whole year!



Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Starbread Bakery


 
6127 Mack Road, Sacramento, CA 95823. (916) 427-8598.

Hope you're having a relaxing holiday week, readers and are all ready to welcome in the new year. I was doing some sorting on the laptop today and came across a forgotten photo I took a few weeks back when Mr. S. and I snuck off to South Sac for a quick a.m. coffee and a bagful of señorita bread from Starbread Bakery. Mmmm, señorita bread...my mouth's watering just thinking about that trip. For just $2, you get 5 pipin' hot sweet rolls drizzled with a hint of honey. It's just the perfect bit of sweetness to get you started in the early morning. What are you waiting for? Go get some....

Nigerians accuse South African Airways of exploitation

High cost of air ticket on Nigeria-South Africa route has scuttled the plans of many Nigerians resident in the country to travel home for Christmas.

Some of them said they were disappointed at the high cost of fare, which in some cases went up by more than 200 per cent.

Dotun Olubadejo, a medical doctor, said: “It is unbelievable that the cost of ticket between Johannesburg and Lagos now goes for as much as 2,000 Rand (N300,000). The same ticket you could get for less than 700 Rand (N120,000.00).”

He said apart from the high cost of the ticket, it was also difficult to secure a seat for the return journey, which would be risky if one was to resume work immediately after the holiday.

“Having weighed all the options, I decided to celebrate the Christmas here(in South Africa),” Olubadejo added.

Chidi Okereke, a businessman, also said some of the airline operators were exploiting the desperation of intending travellers.

He said: My brother, it is tough. If you are desperate to travel to Nigeria now you have to pay extra. Some airline operators are making money out of this situation.

“It is either they tell you that there is no seat the day you want to go or no seat the day you want to come back. But once you offer to pay them something extra, they will make seat available on the days you want. So if you want travel, you have to play ball.

“It is mandatory for some of us to travel either for family engagement or for the feeling of being with your people during the festive period.

“Some people save money for this annually. In my own case, I have to go because I will turn 40 on December 28, and I just completed my house in the village to mark my birthday.” 

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

EGYPTAIR increase its frequencies between Cairo and Juba

With aim of meeting passenger needs, EgyptAir has added new frequencies between Cairo and Juba,
 EGYPTAIR will operate daily flights to Juba, Southern Sudan starting Jan 2012, with easy connection to the rest of the world from Cairo.

It will depart Cairo 0830 am arrive at Juba 1345 PM, Returning flights depart Juba 1445 PM arrive Cairo 1800 PM.  The arrival of EgyptAir in the South Sudanese aviation scene earlier this year was broadly welcomed, coming soon after the launch by Ethiopian and Kenya Airways. EgyptAir was the third major African airline to add Juba to their African network. There were some resentments, however, that the flight would have to route via Khartoum which many South Sudanese consider unsafe for them.

 

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

The 10 Commandments of the good traveler

Lots of travel in this time of the year. Some travel tips, "commandments" for a smooth travel.
  •   Carry all the necessary documents: Travel documents such as ID or passport must be in your possession. You cannot travel anywhere without your passport. Ensure it's valid for a period of at least 6 months otherwise the majority of the countries will not let you in. Your passport is your most important travel document.
  • Find the specific requirements for each destination: Visa and vaccinations are major concerns during your travel and require considerable time during your preparations for a trip, especially if you traveling to  a destination for the first time.  Even some countries where you will have a stop over might require "transit visas". The most commonly required vaccine is the Yellow Fever vaccine. Ensure you carry the yellow fever certificate with you during your travel.
  • Have a "smart bag": Too many clothes, shoes, personal items is recipe for headache. Keep valuable items with you. Money, laptop computers, electronic files, and other items of high value or importance should be kept in a carry-on bag, preferably one that is small enough to stow under a seat. The airline may insist on checking larger carry-on bags if the overhead bins become filled.

  • Travel only with your carry-on luggage: When the trip is short of if it's a business trip, the best you can do is take only a small a suitcase on board. The time saved by not boarding a suitcase is immense. Upon landing, you can just exit the airport because it's not necessary to wait for your luggage or have to deal with lost or stolen luggage. You also avoid long queues formed at the immigration. In case you will have extra luggage, customize the look of your bag to make it easy to identify. Many bags on a flight may have a similar design, so customize the bag to make it easy to spot on a baggage carousel. This will keep other passengers from picking it up by mistake.

  • Do not carry liquids in hand luggage: Watch out for liquids. The maximum limit is 100ml per unit, packaged in clear small plastic bags.

  • Weigh your luggage before check-in: To avoid unpleasant surprises when boarding, such as the pay pound surplus or even being prevented from boarding due to excess baggage(that has exceeded the limit), it's important to verify the weight of your luggage before check-in for smooth boarding.

  • Live on the same time-zone as the time of the destination a few days before the departure if there's a time difference: To avoid suffering from too much jet-lag, you can begin "living" in the same time zone as your destination  few days before the flight. Once in your destination, do not succumb to fatigue, sleep at night and get up in the morning to fit to the new zone and routine, especially if you are on a business meeting. Exercise and eating light meals will help you adapt to the new environment.

  • Get to the airport early to get plenty of time checking in and for the immigration procedures: In general, it is recommended to get to the airport at least two hours before your flight(for international flights) and one hour(domestic flights) . Add an extra hours or 30 minutes in each of these cases to avoid unnecessary hustles.

  • Do not eat heavy meals or drink excess alcohol during the flight: Fatty foods can cause discomfort or dizziness. The effect of alcohol is becomes worse with the difference of pressure and high altitude. 
  • Always carry your own extra entertainment: Bring books, games and laptop in hand luggage. They will be handy in case of delays or lengthy connection.


Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

TAAG's International Relations Director on the Integration of TAAG into global aviation community

Travel with most airline operators in Africa still faces some obstacles, especially when it comes to airline safety but TAAG has been on a growth path in the last few years.In fact, everyone is unanimous in recognizing the changes and innovations in TAAG Angola; aiming for organizational, financial, operational and customer service excellence. In continental terms, TAAG Angola’s performance has been exemplary given the speed of a process that seemed difficult and for whose success the pragmatism of the TAAG Management and the involvement of TAAG Employees has been very important.

Jacinto Junior, TAAG Angola Director of International Relations
The person who has been most responsible for the integration of the national operator in the African civil aviation is Jacinto Junior. He is experienced in international relations, the product of his long career of 37 years in aviation. He clarifies that the AFRAA - African Airlines Association- has been troubled by the situation of air transport in Africa and also strives for a productive regional cooperation, through the intensification of cooperation actions, but the obstacles in the way are difficult to overcome.

SOME DIFFICULTIES
One of the difficulties, according to AFRAA is the lack of profitability of African carriers. In spite of the growth of the market this year, the bulk of the traffic has been by non-African carriers, especially on international routes, according to the document of AFRAA’s Secretary-General, Elijah Chingosho.

Another factor is political instability. Unfortunately, regrets AFRAA, “some African operators are now obliged to reduce their flights due to the political crises and the instability in North Africa and Ivory Coast, also due to the earthquake and to Japan’s tsunami, as well as the increase of oil prices”.

Regarding the North African airlines, which generally had better results than their Sub-Saharan counterparts, the airline body noted that “following the outbreak of political crisis in North Africa, many irlines had to ground their equipment and reduce or suspend their flights”since the North African countries depend on foreign tourism for most of its air traffic.

Thus, in “this kind of situation, when there is a political crisis, foreign tourists disappear, planes are empty, there is lower revenue, employees lose jobs and the aircraft stop, in short, it is a disaster, especially on international routes”. These are new obstacles which add to the already existing, especially the fragmentation of the continent in over 50 countries with a weak political and economic cooperation between them. On the other hand, the ongoing political crises and civil conflicts in Africa are reflected
in the continuing stagnation of the air transport market.

RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGES
So, African airlines face huge challenges for the coming years, and to overcome them, they must define the objectives and resources to be implemented in order to achieve growth of air transport and development in the aviation industry. TAAG considers important an understanding in what concerns the continent, this responsibility belongs to TAAG’s Directorate of International Relations and Trade Agreements, a connecting link between the Angolan Company and its foreign counterparts. It is led by Jacinto Júnior, graduate in Economics from the University of Agostinho Neto. With a twinkle in his eye he says that “currently, our company is viewed with admiration by other African counterparts”.

He considers that “it is easier to enter on such community list than getting out of it, but TAAG was able to do so, recognizing its own mistakes in modernizing itself”. Here is one of the reasons for the visit to Angola of Elijah Chingosho, predisposed to learn more about the Angolan experience, and strengthen the bonds of inter-regional cooperation. “We think that TAAG’s case is a source of pride for the African aviation sector. And it has been an example that has been followed”, he states. “It is important that we can enhance cooperation between the players in this sector and it is important to have a work plan to permanently attack the problems that are limiting the development of African aviation companies”.

AIR CONNECTIONS BETWEEN AFRICAN COUNTRIES
Regarding the scenario of air transport in Africa, Jacinto Júnior acknowledges that “it is easier to travel to Europe than to travel to a neighboring African country, sometimes even with cultural ties. “This is clearly an issue that concerns us, both in terms of TAAG, as the African Union and the AFRAA.

But the reasons contributing to this scenario are easy to understand”, he explains. “Everything is directly related to the level of economic development of African countries. And the airlines fly to where they have customers and to where the flow is higher”, he adds. “On the other hand, operating costs in Africa are quite elevated. About 30% to 40% of the costs are directly allocated to the fuel supply. This is just one example.

We are also obliged to recognize that the old colonial powers are one of our major markets - because the flow of investment and economic relations is very strong”, noted the Angolan manager. In his opinion, the difficulty of moving goods and people in Africa, also considering that road transport is inefficient, obstructs the economic development of the continent. It's a vicious cycle - the countries have economies with little strength, which cuts the purchasing power of citizens, who then are unable to travel, resulting in airlines without fleets and without glow. “If you look closely, companies like Ethiopian Airlines, by operating in almost all countries of the continent, eventually constitute a unifying factor for Africans”, he states.

To fight the scenario described above, he reports that “some measures have been taken. One of the most important is the Yamoussoukro Declaration, adopted in 1999, in the Ivory Coast, and is currently in a relatively advanced stage of ratification by African states. It consists of the complete liberalization of
African air space to allow free and the materialization of free routes that can be economically viable”. Take the example of TAAG’s link between Luanda and Douala - the route goes from Luanda to Brazzaville (Republic of Congo) and then to Bangui (Central African Republic) and ends in Douala, Cameroon. It is a possible formula to circumvent the problems of flow and profitability that the point to point connections
require.

Another possibility is the code share, adopted by TAAG to several international destinations. “In many cases, the operation is done with only one aircraft, which allows mutual gains - the two companies involved can sell tickets for the same flights, exchange experiences and build a closer relationship. In case both operate, sales opportunities increase because, in addition to their own frequencies, each company will also be able to commercialize its tickets on flights operated by the other, which represents an increase of frequency and, therefore, greater capitation opportunities and market consolidation”, he explains.

RAPPROCHEMENT BETWEEN AFRICAN CARRIERS
In the process of rapprochement between countries, economies and African airlines, TAAG has responded proactively by enabling the creation of new routes and the entry of African companies in the Angolan market. Therefore TAAG has sought to meet the ongoing liberalization efforts in the continent.

“These issues, however, should be analyzed with some caution. A balance of interests between African operators does not seem to be easy to secure for the moment, because there are several dynamics that must be respected.

There are some airlines more developed than others and it is as if we have different speeds within the same process”, says Jacinto Júnior. TAAG is available for cooperation, especially through the Code Share. Operators of Nigeria (Arik Air), Morocco (Royal Air Maroc) and Tanzania (Precision Air), will soon operate flights to Luanda in this system. TAAG had already signed such agreements with LAM, Mozambique, Kenya Airways and Air Namibia. Retreating to the past, it appears that TAAG has always considered the approach with African counterparts, mainly in technical and training areas, having worked with Ethiopian Airlines, Mozambique Airlines and the ever present South African Airways.

The non-implementation of the Yamoussoukro Declaration, especially the nonmarket liberalization, is one of the factors limiting the development of African aviation and Jacinto Júnior adds that, on the other hand, many countries in Africa do not have such airlines, or, when they do, they lack the economic and financial capacity to acquire aircraft, consequently the regional cooperation emerges as a way to overcome their isolation and fight the under-utilization of aeronautical facilities available on the continent.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Jacinto Júnior also rejoices because a prestigious publication dedicated to analyze the performance of the sector, “Aviation & Allied Business Journal”, has decided to honor TAAG an award for “leadership and performance”.

TAAG’s efforts in order to change and upgrade itself were recognized in the 17th edition of its Conference in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Participants in this year's conference included aeronautical executives and aviation authorities from different African countries and their ministers, or their representatives, especially in the areas of transport and tourism, private sector representatives and representatives from international organizations such as ICAO, IATA and FAA in close collaboration with the Tanzanian government. 250 delegates from Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and America attended. This senior manager of aviation demonstrates how grateful he is by the international recognition that TAAG has been gathering.

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Qatar Airways Cabin Crew: Best Airline Uniform?

Best Dressed Airline
Qatar Airways has been voted as the best airline uniform in the industry by travelers, industry observers and in the fashion circles. According to an earlier blog, "Qatar Airways’ plum-coloured uniform must have hit the right note with customers, as it was voted ‘most stylish’ by Skyscanner users in a poll in September 2010. The deep-maroon uniform, a colour often associated with dignity, nobility, and power, also reflects the airline’s logo" Qatar Airways is very serious when it comes to its image and the look of its crew.  The airline is rumored to have a grooming officer who ensures the crew have the perfect look as seen below:









Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Nigerian regulators allay fears over alleged kerosene-for-aviation fuel saga

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has allayed fears over the alleged conversion of domestic kerosene into aviation fuel, saying it was near impossible to do so given the complex process the product will go through before being used by aircraft.


Briefing reporters yesterday, the NCAA’s Director General, Dr. Harold Demuren, said it was practically impossible for any aviation fuel marketer to supply adulterated fuel to the airlines, saying that any fuel imported into the country had the approval of the Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR).

Meanwhile, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has waded into the alleged alteration of aviation fuel with kerosene by some airline operators.

The agency has moved in its experts and laboratories to ensure standards in the quality of aviation fuel used by airlines and to ensure that the safety of passengers is not compromised.
In a related development, the management of Sahara Group, the oil company accused of importing adulterated aviation fuel into the country, has denied doing so.

Demuren explained that after the DPR’s approval, NCAA also had facilities at the airport to test whatever was being brought into the industry, adding that safety would not be compromised in any way by the agency.
He, however, emphasized that the regulatory body was investigating the allegation against Sahara Energy, but maintained that there were international standard and recommended practices that must be followed by all marketers.


Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com

Taking A Few Days Off From Blogging...



Happy Holidays To You & Yours,

A Girl & Her Fork

Cranberry Honey Mustard


Looking for a last-minute homemade gift to whip up? Or perhaps you're just thinking ahead about a yummy condiment to pair up with some leftover Christmas turkey? Then give this mouth-smackin' cranberry honey mustard a try.


Cranberry Honey Mustard (The Mustard Book by Jan Roberts-Dominguez)

Ingredients

3/4 cup yellow mustard seeds

1/2 cups cider vinegar

1 1/4 cups dried cranberries

3 tablespoons honey (I added a little extra)

1 teaspoon salt


Instructions

- In a non-aluminum pot or jar, combine the mustard seeds, vinegar and cranberries, cover and soak for 48 hours; adding additional vinegar if necessary to maintain enough liquid to cover the seeds (but you don't want it to be overly sloshy).

- Scrape the soaked seed-and-cranberry mixture into a food processor and process until the mixture turns from liquid and seeds to a creamy mixture flecked with seeds and bits of cranberry. The process takes about 3 to 4 minutes, so be patient. You may need to add additional vinegar as necessary to create a nice creamy mustard, keep in mind that it will thicken slightly upon standing. After about a week of aging the cranberry flavor seems to settle into this mustard and make it all the better, but it is perfectly good immediately. Makes 3 1/3 cups.

- Follow standard hot water bath procedures for canning.

Qatar Airways' corporate jet division, Qatar Executive, Ends 2011 on a High

Qatar Airways’ corporate jet division, Qatar Executive, has written another chapter in its success story following a year marked by fleet expansion, the introduction of its own dedicated maintenance hangar and a significant boost of its service portfolio.

In the two years since its inception, Qatar Executive has built a solid foundation for its future development, rapidly becoming a lucrative business backed by the global expertise and track record of its award-winning parent carrier, Qatar Airways.

In response to the growing demand for business jet services from the Middle East and around the world, the division has strengthened its market position through diversifying its service portfolio, now encompassing not just its core business of aircraft charters, but also aircraft management, maintenance and a full range of Fixed Based Operation (FBO) services.

Cabin Interior Of A Qatar Executive Global 5000

During the summer, Qatar Executive added three new Bombardier aircraft to its fleet, including the ultra-long haul Global Express XRS – one of the most luxurious business jets in the sky – a Global 5000 and a Challenger 605 making it the youngest fleet of business aircraft in the Gulf, with an average age of just one year.

Today, the provider of exclusive business or leisure flights operates a total of six wholly-owned Bombardier jets, a number set to increase in line with the expansion plans Qatar Executive has set in its pursuit of growth in key markets.

One of Qatar Executive's 6 Corporate Jets
Another significant boost to Qatar Executive’s operations was the opening of a dedicated 6,400 square metre hangar facility for maintenance operations at Doha International Airport. The new hangar serves Qatar Executive, as well as other carriers, and has been recognised by Bombardier as an Approved Service Facility in the Middle East.

Together with Doha International Airport’s ground handling agent QAS, Qatar Executive offers a full suite of services to visiting private and corporate jets including VIP meet and greet and executive ground handling services, fuel arrangements, parking, hangaring and aircraft cleaning.

Commenting on an exciting 2011, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said:“Even in the current economic conditions, Qatar Executive has shown a dynamic performance and significantly increased earnings compared to 12 months ago.

“Qatar Executive has received exceptional customer response throughout the year and hasdeveloped into a world-class corporate aviation company, integrated into Qatar Airways’ full-service strategy.

“Qatar Airways’ premium customer segment offers enormous potential for Qatar Executive, which the private jet division is continuously looking to capitalise on.”

Added Al Baker: “There is a natural synergy for Qatar Airways to transfer its First and Business Class passengers, who plan to connect from the commercial airline’s network to remote destinations, onto its private jet service. This is a market we are progressively tapping into, and distinguishes our service significantly from other operators.”

On the division’s further growth plans, Al Baker said: “Looking to the future, we will expand into existing markets like Russia and other high-demand European countries, as well as the rapidly emerging markets of Asia.”

Being part of a well-established full service global network airline of Qatar Airways, named Airline of the Year 2011 by the prominent industry audit Skytrax, Qatar Executive customers enjoy the highest standards of travel in terms of quality, exclusivity, comfort and confidentiality provided by highly trained and experienced crew.

The personalised service for passengers includes the convenience of booking an aircraft in as little as four hours before departure, access to premium airport lounges, and check-in 10 minutes prior to take off.

For further information and bookings, visit the Qatar Executive website www.qatarexec.com.qa

Email Us at FlightAfricablog@gmail.com