Marcelle Nethersole Speaks To Captain Edom Tamunotonye Tawo

Marcelle Nethersole speaks to Captain Edom Tamunotonye TawoC, from Etam Avitat Services in Nigeria
 

Can you tell me about Etam Avitat?

Etam Avitat Services stands as a pioneering force in Nigeria, being the sole trip support company in the region. This innovation is reshaping the landscape of aviation on support through its commitment to safety and efficiency. Specialising in crucial services such as flight planning, ground handling, flight clearances, and aircraft management, Etam Avitat caters to a wide-ranging clientele. These include both business jet owners and commercial airlines, highlighting the company's versatility and dedication to service.

As the founder, what made you set up the company?

Having travelled extensively as a pilot, I've observed significant differences in operations between the local companies in Nigeria and their counterparts in Europe and America. In Nigeria, the crew often shoulder the burden of managing flight logistics, which adds considerable stress before even taking off. This contrasts sharply with other global destinations where a dedicated team handles everything from obtaining overnight permits to organising fuel releases and arranging hotel accommodation and crew transportation. Inspired by this efficient model, I established Etam Avitat to offer comprehensive services to private jet owners and commercial airline operators.

Can you tell me about the company’s fleet?

Our company offers specialised trip support services by partnering with private jet owners like Trebet Avia, Jaz Avia, and Zjets Air. While we don't own aircraft, these partnerships give us access to a broad fleet, including Bombardier Challenger 601 and 605; Hawker 800XP and Embraer models such as ERJ 135/145, Legacy 650 enabling us to provide premium, tailored tight operations. We operate globally, and our clients range from private jet owners to commercial airlines and private individuals.

Where do you source your pilots from?

Our core services include crewing and resourcing, where we meticulously select pilots from esteemed companies both within Nigeria and internationally, catering to the specific requests of our clients. We have forged partnerships with renowned ATOs worldwide, such as Flight Safety, Acass, Lufthansa Avia on training, and Simaero, which enhance our capabilities in developing and expanding the skillset of our pilots. We have distinguished ourselves by specialising in scheduling precise aircraft type ratings and inspiring young individuals to embark on a career path as professional pilots.

How is business aviation in Nigeria, and how do you see it growing?

Business aviation in Nigeria and Africa holds great potential, especially for reaching remote areas that commercial airlines struggle to access. This sector effectively connects passengers to key airport locations. However, doing business in Africa faces challenges due to slow aircraft operation clearances, with many requests denied due to permit delays, unlike the smoother processes in Europe and America.

African-registered aircraft have more freedom in European and American airspace. Despite efforts like the Yamoussoukro Accord to ease operations between West African countries, implementation is lacking.

Creating an agency like EUROCONTROL could significantly boost African business aviation, but this goal seems distant currently.

What are the challenges the company faces?

Delays in obtaining flight permits hinder operations and revenue. Streamlining this process is crucial for efficiency. Access to credit is another issue; financial institutions don't understand the industry's complexities, deterring investment despite its financial potential. Improving bank-industry relations could foster growth and economic benefits. Foreign exchange rate disparages and difficulty accessing dollars through the central bank also pose problems. Payments in dollars are essential, but reliance on the Nigerian Naira causes losses, especially during maintenance.

What does a typical day involve for you in your role?

I prioritise a strong partnership with the operations team. This collaboration provides insight into daily operations, allowing me to apply my expertise as a seasoned captain to enhance our services. With experience in both commercial and private aviation, I address clients' unique requests with precision. Business aviation requires a personalised approach, as each client has distinct needs. Our flight operations team excels in this environment, showing adaptability and skill. By leveraging my background in flight operations, I offer strategic guidance that strengthens our team.