Guests of Dana Air will enjoy quicker and more convenient check-in services with the launch of the ‘Roving Agent’, a mobile device which allows guests to be checked-in on arrival at the airport by mobile airline staff.
Strapped with tablet PCs and mini printers, the airline’s mobile check-in agents can now issue boarding passes to guests even before they reach the check-in counter. This new initiative complements the airline’s existing check-in counters and online check-in service.
“What we are offering in roving agents is immense value addition for our guests," said Obi Mbanuzuo, Dana Air’s Head of Commercial. “With this solution, our mobile check-in agents can quickly access and verify the travel reservation details of guests; book them on their choice of seat and generate boarding passes.”
“Now guests with hand baggage need not wait at the check-in counter to collect their boarding pass; they can simply approach any of our easily recognizable mobile check-in agents on arrival at the airport and then proceed through airport security to the boarding gate”, Mbanuzuo explained.
Airlines, the world over, have constantly been innovating processes to speed up check-in for guests. The ‘Check in as you walk in’, facilitated by the roving agent, is the latest concept for a speedy check-in for the jet-setting passenger. With the recent launch, Dana Air becomes the first airline in Nigeria to deploy this solution.
Since commencing operations in 2008, Dana Air has been at the forefront of the deployment of ICT solutions in Nigeria’s aviation sector with several awards to its credit. “We will continue to use technology to enhance the flying experience of our guests by simplifying air travel and saving valuable time”, assured Mbanuzuo.
Dana Air currently operates 10 daily flights on the Lagos-Abuja-Lagos route and has just re-launched daily flight services to Port Harcourt city, from Lagos and Abuja. The airline is reputed for its efficient customer services, world-class in-flight services, on-time departures and arrivals, innovative e-airline products and high quality standards.
Following the lifting of the suspension on Dana Air’s operating license by the Federal Government on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, the airline has begun a process of recertification by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Also, all the staff of the airline will shortly be undergoing refresher programmes in preparation for commencement of operations.
The airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Tony Usidamen, who made the disclosure, said that it was standard industry practice for an airline to undergo recertification after its operations have been grounded for several weeks. In his words “This is a standard safety measure taken by the authorities to ensure that all the aircrafts in the fleet are fully serviceable, and we are cooperating fully in the exercise.”
“Of the 5 aircrafts in the airline’s fleet, 3 are currently at MMA2 while 2 are undergoing the statutory ‘C-Checks’ at the MyTechnic engineering base in Istanbul, Turkey”, Usidamen said.
In readiness for operations too, all staff of the airline will commence re-training shortly. This, according to Usidamen, is to ensure quality at every level of the airline’s operations. “Dana Air had built a reputation as the preferred airline for travel across Nigeria and we are determined to improve on our offerings and offer our guests an unparalled level of service excellence when we resume operations shortly.”
On insurance and payment of benefits to the families of the victims, the airline maintained that, but for the issues of multiple claims and the delay in getting certain required insurance documents from concerned families, most of the families would have been fully compensated. It however said that its insurers were doing everything possible to expedite the process of verification of the documents and ensure that full compensation is paid to the right next-of-kin.
“The provision of safe, reliable world-class air transport services has always been our focus at Dana Air and we will continue to adhere strictly to safety procedures as required by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Act and all other relevant local and international regulations”, an earlier statement by the airline read.
The management and the over 558 staff of Dana Air wish to express our deepest appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria over the lifting of the suspension of the airline’s operations with effect from Wednesday, September 5, 2012, following government’s satisfaction with the air-worthiness of the airline after a rigorous technical, operational and financial audit.
We also wish to thank all Nigerians and our esteemed guests for your prayers since the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012. Our thoughts and prayers will always be with the families that lost loved ones; we remain committed to assisting them in every way possible and also fulfilling our obligations to them fully, as stipulated by the law.
The provision of safe, reliable world-class air transport services has always been our focus at Dana Air and we will continue to adhere strictly to safety procedures as required by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Act and all other relevant local and international regulations, as we resume flight operations shortly.
In order to provide up to date information on the status of the ongoing response by Dana Air to the tragic accident of June 3, 2012, the company shall now be providing updates to the media, and on our website, when new information is available.
Identification and release of bodies
- The Lagos State Government and LASUTH, at a press conference today, announced that duly identified bodies will be released to the next-of-kin, or authorised relative, starting from Thursday, August 9, 2012. The schedule of release is available at LASUTH and all families are requested to kindly contact the Funeral Director's office on 01-8542254 at least 24hrs in advance of that time. On its part, the management of Dana Air remains committed to assisting the families in every way possible. The airline’s Crisis Management Centres (CMCs) in Lagos and Abuja, manned by trained personnel, are still open, and the toll-free lines connected to the centre remain active.
- Dana Air continues to offer special counselling and therapy sessions for affected families who wish to avail this service; private sessions can be arranged, and this is just a phone call away.
Insurance and contact with the families of the victims
- In honour of our duty to the families, interim payments to the next-of-kin who have completed legal verification of their documents have commenced. We remain in contact with all the families and relatives through the Crisis Management Centres which we have established in Lagos and Abuja, and will continue to assist them in this process.
Company Activity
- The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) is continuing its investigations into the cause of the accident and Dana Air is offering its full support and cooperation. The airline has also been honouring summons from the court to provide testimonies at the on-going Coroner’s inquest in Lagos, and will continue to do so.
Help lines 24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are: LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288. ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145. Toll-free numbers open at 0809 993 7312, 0809 993 7313, 0809 993 7314
Media enquiries
The lead company spokesperson for all media enquiries is Mr. Tony Usidamen. He will be available daily on the following numbers to respond to specific enquiries.
As the Lagos State Government and LASUTH get set to release DNA results soon, the management of Dana Air has restated the airline’s commitment to assisting the families of the victims in every way possible. Her Crisis Management Centres (CMCs) in Lagos and Abuja remain open and manned by trained personnel.
The airline had, in the wake of the June 3 accident, established the Centres to provide useful information to families and close relatives of the victims. The teams have also been assisting the next-o-kin with information on documentation required for processing of insurance claims, and will continue to do so until all claims have been fully addressed and settled.
The toll-free lines to its CMCs, according to the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Tony Usidamen, remain open for families and close relatives. “We will continue to offer special counselling sessions and therapy for affected families who wish to avail this service”, Usidamen added.
Dana Air began scheduled flights on November 10, 2008 and has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines and a preferred carrier, operating over 18,900 flights and carrying over 1,600,000 passengers since its inception.
In order to provide up to date information on the status of the ongoing response by Dana Air to the tragic accident of June 3, 2012, the company shall now be providing updates to the media, and on our website, on Tuesday and Friday each week.
Response to media coverage
- Dana Air would also like to respond to media coverage suggesting that the airline was absent at the July 23 Sitting of the on-going Coroner's inquest into the circumstances surrounding the June 3 accident. We wish to clarify that we were properly represented at the July 23 sitting and will continue to be in attendance just as we have honoured all other invitations by the AIB and the joint Senate and House of Representatives investigations.
- Dana Air is also working closely with LASEMA with regards to rehabilitation of the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents. Relief materials were donated and steps have been taken to provide accommodation for the severely affected residents.
Company activity
- Dana Air continues to offer special psychotherapy and counselling sessions for affected families who wish to avail this service.
- The airline shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to work with the Lagos State Government and LASUTH to expedite the process of identification and release of bodies.
Help lines 24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are: LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288. ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145.
- Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to work with the Lagos State Government and LASUTH to expedite the process of identification and release of bodies.
On 3rd June 2012 about 1545 hours1, 5N-RAM, a Boeing MD-83, a domestic scheduled commercial flight, operated by Dana Airlines Limited as flight 992 (DAN 992), crashed into a densely populated area during a forced landing following a total loss of power in both engines while on approach to Muhammed Murtala Airport (LOS), Lagos, Nigeria. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and the airplane was on an instrument flight plan. All of the 153 persons aboard the airplane, including the 6 crew members were fatally injured.
There were 10 confirmed ground fatalities. The airplane was destroyed.
There was post impact fire. The flight originated at Abuja(ABV) and the destination was LOS.
The airplane was on the fourth flight segment of the day,consisting of two round-trips between Lagos and Abuja.The accident occurred during the return leg of the second trip. DAN 992 was on final approach for runway 18R at LOS when the crew reported the total loss of power.
According to interviews, the flight arrived in ABV as Dana Air flight 993 about 1350. According to Dana Air ground personnel, routine turn-around activities occurred,including refueling of the airplane. DAN 992 initiated engine startup at 1436, taxied to the runway and was later airborne at 1458 after the flight had reported that it had a fuel endurance of 3.5 hours. Shortly after takeoff, DAN992 reported 1545 as the estimated time of arrival at LOS as the flight climbed to a cruise altitude of 26,000 ft2.DAN0992 made contact with Lagos Area Control Center at 1518 hours.
The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) retained about 31 minutes of the flight and starts about 1515 at which time the captain and first officer were in a discussion of a nonnormal condition regarding the correlation between the engine throttle setting and an engine power indication3.However, they did not voice concerns then that the condition would affect the continuation of the flight. The flight crew continued to monitor the condition and became increasingly concerned as the flight transition through the initial descent from cruise altitude at 1522 and the subsequent approach phase.
DAN 992 reported passing through 18,100 and 7,700 ft,respectively, at 1530 and 1540 hours. After receiving a series of heading and altitude assignments from the controller, DAN 992 was issued the final heading to intercept the final approach course for runway 18R.
During the period of 1537 and 15:41 the flight crew engaged in pre-landing tasks including deployment of the slats, and extension of the flaps and landing gear. At 15:41:16 the first officer (FO) inquired, "both engines coming up?" and the captain (Capt) replied “negative.” The flight crew subsequently discussed and agreed to declare an emergency. At 1542:10, DANA 992 radioed an emergency distress call indicating "dual engine failure . . .negative response from throttle."
At 1542:35, the flight crew lowered the flaps further and continued with the approach and discussed landing alternatively on runway 18L. At 1542:45, the Capt reported the runway in sight and instructed the FO to raise the flaps up and 4 seconds later to raise the landing gear.
At 1543:27 hours, the Capt informed the FO "we just lost everything, we lost an engine. I lost both engines". During the next 25 seconds until the end of the CVR recording, the flight crew was attempting to restart the engines.
The airplane crashed in a residential area about 5.8 miles north of LOS. The airplane wreckage was on approximately the extended centerline of runway 18R.During the impact sequence, the airplane struck an incomplete building, two trees and three buildings. The wreckage was confined, with the separated tail section and engines located at the beginning of the debris field.
The airplane was mostly consumed by post crash fire. The tail section, both engines and portions of both wings,representing only about 15% of the airplane were recovered from the accident site for further examination.The two flight recorders, the Cockpit Voice Recorder(CVR) and the flight data recorder (FDR) were analysed at the facilities of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Washington, D.C., USA. The solid state based memory in the CVR was in good condition and retained 31 minutes of audio information. The digital tape based memory in the FDR succumbed to the post crash fire and melted, consequently no data could be recovered.
The captain, age 55, held an airline transport pilot license with type ratings in the A-3204, DC-9, FK-285, and SF-3406. He had over 18,116 hours of total time, including 16,416 hours of pilot-in-command time (PIC). The captain had 7,461 hours in the accident model airplane all of which was as PIC. He was employed with Dana Air on 14 March 2012. He began flying line operations for the company in late May 2012 and had since accrued over 120 hours of flight time. The captain had acquired about 3,78, and 116 flight hours, respectively, in the preceding 24 hours, 30 and 90 days.
The first officer, age 34, held a commercial pilot license he was type rated in MD-83. He had 1,143 hours of total time, including about 200 hours as pilot-in-command. The first officer had 808 hours in the accident model airplane all of which was second-in-command. He had been previously employed with Dana Air as the Director of Cabin Service before he was hired as a pilot about January 2011. The first officer had accrued about 3, 42,and 154 flight hours, respectively, during the preceding 24 hours, 30 and 90 days.
The airplane was manufactured in 1990 and according to maintenance records it had accumulated 60,846 hours (35,219 cycles) of total time. The left and right engines respectively had 54,322 (30,933 cycles) and 26,025 (12,466 cycles) hours of total time since new. A review of the aircraft technical logs did not reveal of the previous 30 days did not indicate a condition. The airplane had last undergone maintenance on 1st June 2012, and after a return to service flight on 2nd June 2012, it was operated on four revenue flights (two round trips between LOS and ABV) and another four flights on 3rd June 2012.
Fueling records indicated the airplane was uplifted with 8000 lbs of fuel before departure from ABV. The flight crew reported to ATC they had 26,000 lbs of total fuel.Preliminary analysis of fuel samples from the refueling truck and the supply tank at ABV were negative for contamination.
The investigative activities have included, in part, visual examination of the aircraft wreckage, review of maintenance records and other historical information of the aircraft, documentation of the training and experience of the flight crew, determination the chronology of the flight, review of recorded data, reconstructing the aircraft refueling, and collection of related fuel samples, and interviews of relevant personnel.
Future investigative activities will include, but is not limited to, the detailed examination of the engines, further testing of fuel samples, continued factual gathering of relevant historical, operational, maintenance and performance information of the accident airplane in addition to other similar airplane models, further development of the background of the flightcrew, further analysis of the CVR audio recording and review of pertinent issues associated with regulatory oversight.
As the State of Occurrence, the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has instituted an investigation in accordance with the standards and recommendations specified in the provisions of Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization. As the State of manufacture of the airplane and engine, a US Accredited Representative has been appointed and assisted by US technical advisors from the NTSB, US Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing Airplane Company, and Pratt & Whitney Engines.
In accordance with Annex 13, "the sole objective of the investigation of an accident or incident shall be the prevention of accidents and incidents. It is not for the purpose of this activity to apportion blame or liability."Accordingly, the AIB with the participation of the parties,including the NCAA, will seek to identify any areas of safety concerns during the investigation and implementthe appropriate actions for correction or improvement.
The content of this report is based on preliminary information. The Bureau will continue to conduct the investigation in a meticulous and methodical manner and release facts as they become validated.
- Our attention has been drawn to an inference made by a newspaper on the recently released preliminary report of the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) on the cause of the Dana Air accident. The newspaper report suggests that the ‘Dana plane was faulty’.
To this we would like to refer readers to paragraph 13 of the AIB report. It states “A review of the aircraft technical logs of the previous 30 days did not indicate a condition. The airplane had last undergone maintenance on 1st June 2012, and after a return to service flight on 2nd June 2012, it was operated on four revenue flights (two round trips between LOS and ABV) and another four flights on 3rd June 2012.”
Also please refer to the submissions made by the Commissioner/CEO of AIB, Capt. M.S. Usman: “The content of this report is based on preliminary information. The Bureau will continue to conduct the investigation in a meticulous and methodical manner and release facts as they become validated”.
The management and the over 540 staff of Dana Air are grateful to the President, the Honourable Minister of Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the AIB over the progress made so far in finding out the cause of the accident. We pledge our continued cooperation and assistance as the investigations continue.
- Dana Air would also like to respond to media coverage on its absence at the Coroner's inquest into the circumstances surrounding the June 3 accident. The company appreciates the importance of the inquest. We have honoured every invitation by the AIB in the on-going investigations and were fully represented at the recently concluded joint Senate & House of Representatives Public Hearing. We are duty bound to honour summon by the Court. So far, the company has not received any summons from Coroner. The Company will ensure that a proper representation is made on the next adjourned date.
Help lines
24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are:
LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288.
ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145.
The cause and details of the accident
> What was the cause of the accident? Was the black box found?
The cause of the accident is not known at this time.
An investigation is currently being conducted by the (Nigerian) Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) with technical assistance from the US National Safety Transportation Board (NTSB). Dana Air is cooperating fully and assisting the investigation in every way possible.
We can confirm that the ‘Black Box’ Flight Data Recorder and the Cockpit Voice Recorder from the aircraft were found on Monday, June 4 by the joint team comprising the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). We hope this will swiftly provide information about the cause of the accident.
> Were there any survivors on the aircraft, and how many bodies have so far been recovered? How many passengers were on board?
Very sadly, there were no survivors. The process of recovering bodies from the crash site is continuing and, as at the last update, 151 bodies had been found. Further updates will be provided as we receive them.
The aircraft was carrying a total of 146 passengers and 7 crew.
> There is a statement credited to a staff of Dana Air alleging that the aircraft involved in the crash was not serviceable. What do you have to say about this?
The allegations are totally false and baseless.
At Dana Air, the safety of our passengers and crew is of paramount importance and we adhere strictly to the maintenance schedule of all our aircraft as prescribed by the manufacturers, and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCCA). Aircrafts are only released into service by a certified maintenance engineer after all necessary checks have been completed, and the Aircraft Technical Log (A document specific to every aircraft which details the maintenance status of that aircraft) has been signed by the Captain operating a flight once he has also completed his own check.
The aircraft involved in the accident had its ‘A-check’ (a mandatory 450-hourly maintenance check) after only 400 hours on 30th May, 2012. The ‘C-Check’ (a statutory annual maintenance check) is not due until September 2012. The Certificate of Airworthiness, issued by the NCAA after the last C-Check, was completely valid as at the time of the accident.
Dana Air has a maintenance agreement with MyTechnic - an international, world-class aviation maintenance organisation (MRO). It performs and supervises all local maintenance tasks (A-checks and line maintenance) at Dana Air's Lagos base including the daily servicing and release of its aircraft for operations. Its heavy scheduled maintenance checks (i.e. C-checks) are done by MyTechnic at its engineering base.
> A concerned Governor was reported to have warned the airline after an incident involving one of its aircrafts had a hydraulic problem during a flight to Uyo. Is this true, and is it the same aircraft that was involved in the accident?
We can confirm that there was an incident involving one of our aircrafts which operated a flight to Uyo. It was a failure in the aircraft hydraulic system, and this is not uncommon in the aviation industry, given that an airplane is a mechanical device. The manufacturers of the aircraft anticipate such problems and have detailed procedures which Pilots must follow in such situations. The intensive Pilots’ training programme also prepares them to effectively manage this and other such cases. As per regulation, aircrafts cannot be returned to service until after every mechanical or technical issue reported by the flight crew has been resolved, and the aircraft certified airworthy.
The aircraft involved in the accident is not the same aircraft that had the hydraulic problem that is being referred to in some media reports. Each aircraft is identified by its registration number and, while the aircraft that operated that flight had Reg. No. 5N-SRI (it has since been undergoing its C-Check at the MyTechnic engineering base overseas), this one has Reg. No. 5N-RAM.
Safety has (and will always be) our primary focus at Dana Air, and we will never compromise on the international standards of our operations.
> There are reports that the accident may have been as a result of dual engine failure. Under what circumstances can this occur? Is it true that the fuel supplied to the crashed aircraft was contaminated?
Dual engine failure is a rarity and it could be as a result of several factors. However, the AIB has not shared any of the information that it has with us yet about their investigation and as a result we are limited in the facts that we can provide. We can, however, confirm that fuel samples were taken from all our aircrafts by the AIB for testing. Any comment on the cause of the accident at this point would be speculative and could jeopardize ongoing investigations. We, at Dana Air, are as determined as all Nigerians to find out the cause, and we will continue to assist the investigating authorities in every way possible.
The investigating authorities are made up of the AIB, US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Aircraft Manufacturers (Boeing) and manufacturers of the aircraft engine (Pratt & Withney)
Aircraft, flight operations and regulatory issues
> Is Dana Air aware of the NCAA rules governing the age of aircraft?
Yes, regulation states that as at the time of importation/registration in Nigeria, aircrafts should not be more than 18years, and all of Dana’s aircraft are in full compliance with the regulation. However, like in other parts of the world, no limit has been placed on the number of years an aircraft can operate after registration in Nigeria.
> How old was the affected Dana Air aircraft and what is the model?
The affected aircraft is a Boeing MD83. Its Registration Number is 5N-RAM and it is 22 years old. It had flown 60,846 hours and made 35,219 landings. The aircraft has been maintained correctly and fully in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule and directives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.
The aircraft entered service with Dana Air in March 2009. > Doesn’t the age of Dana Air’s MD83 fleet make them unsafe?
No. Safety is of paramount importance at Dana Air, and the age of its Boeing MD83 fleet does not make them unsafe. Indeed, there are aircrafts of similar age (21-22 years old) operating in the fleets of major airlines around the world. Operators range from the largest foreign and domestic trunk carriers to new start-up airlines and charter operators. Among them are American Airlines which operates the largest number of MD80s – a fleet of 275 – while Delta Airlines follows with a total of 117.
The key factor is to ensure that aircraft – whatever their age – are correctly maintained at all time.
The aircraft involved in the accident, (Registration Number 5N-RAM), was maintained correctly and fully in accordance with the manufacturers schedule and directives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. This is the case for all aircraft in Dana Air’s fleet.
> Dana Air is currently not operating any flights. Is it true that the airline’s license has been revoked, as reported in the media?
Following the tragic accident of Sunday, 3rd June, a decision was taken by Dana Air management not to operate any scheduled flights from Monday, 4th June as a mark of respect to the victims of the accident and their families (not only did we lose some of the most loyal and valued guests of our airline, but some our finest and most dedicated staff too).
Dana Air’s operations were subsequently grounded by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (Contrary to media reports, Dana’s Air Transport License issued by the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and the Air Operator Certificate which was issued by NCAA were never revoked). We understand that this is standard procedure following an aircraft accident, and we are cooperating fully with the NCAA as they perform checks on our operations. We hope to quickly and conclusively demonstrate to them the paramount importance we place on safety, and how a safety-first culture is at the heart of our airline.
Insurance and Support for the victims’ families
> What steps have the airline taken so far to assist families of the victims in identifying and recovering the bodies?
Within a few hours of the incident, we launched a 24-hour call centre service and set up a dedicated information centre manned by experienced personnel at MurtalaMuhammed International Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) in Lagos. Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to engage the Lagos State Government and the management of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to expedite the process of identification of bodies, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per last update from the Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties and the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH on Tuesday, July 3, 2012, more DNA samples have been collected and will be sent to the UK for testing by July 4, 2012. We will provide further updates as we get them.
> What is the status of compensation payments? How prepared is the airline to make interim payment to the families of the deceased as per relevant laws, and in the light of the 30-day ultimatum issued by the Federal House of Representatives?
Dana Air is fully aware of the mandatory requirement by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), for interim benefits to be paid to the families of the victims within 30 days of the accident.
Insurers of Dana Air are sparing no efforts in processing the claims in accordance with the law. Cheques are being issued towards interim payment of $30,000 each, after completing legal verification of documentation and next-of-kin status. All completed claim forms submitted to Dana Air’s Crisis Management Centers (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja have been forwarded to our insurers for processing (direct contact has been made with all 120 families who lost loved ones in the accident, and the airline is also in contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of the foreign nationals involved). Dana Air is in touch with all the families that have submitted necessary documents and have advised that they visit the chambers of Yomi Oshinkoya & Co, Solicitors appointed by our insurers, to complete advance payment formalities.
Yomi Oshikoya & Co. Legal Practitioners Owamojo Chambers Skywater Tower (4th Floor) 6, Otunba Yomi Oshikoya Drive Off Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way Ikeja, Lagos. Tel: 08033351401, 08095784454, 07028793423, 08033302688
Dana Air is aware and perfectly understands and respects that most of the next of kin or legal representatives who submitted documents or are yet to visit the CMC and submit documentations to us, are still observing the customary mourning period. Advance payment claims will be concluded on a case by case basis as and when claimants find it convenient to come forward.
To facilitate the payment process, Dana Air had deployed 3 dedicated toll-free lines, manned by trained personnel, to a Crisis Management Centre in Lagos and Abuja, and public announcements were made in the national dailies and local radio requesting affected families to come forward with details of the Next-Of-Kin, especially those whom the company had difficulty reaching. The airline will continue to provide these services until all claims have been addressed and settled.
Dana Air is maintaining contact with all the families, and will continue to offer all necessary assistance to them.
> What are you doing to assist those whose homes were damaged or destroyed in the accident?
The Chairman, Directors and other senior management representatives from Dana Air, along with specially trained counselors and psychotherapists, have been visiting the families of the departed, including those who were injured and have subsequently been discharged from the hospital. As part of efforts to ensure proper rehabilitation of the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents, the airline, on July 3, 2012, presented cheques to 7 of the 9 ‘severely affected’ residents (as per Lagos State Emergency Management Agency classification) as a palliative measure to assist them in securing the preferred temporary accommodation of their choice. The remaining 2 families requested that the gesture be explained in writing before they would accept their cheque.
Prior to the gesture of Tuesday, July 3rd, the airline had provided relief materials to all affected residents and, in conjunction with LASEMA, had made advanced efforts in securing accommodation for the families. The decision to monetize the gesture at this point is based on the request by the affected families at a meeting between them and Dana Air officials on Thursday, 28th June, 2012. The company maintains contact with all the families and all efforts will be made to ensure that losses caused by the accident will be indemnified.
In order to provide up to date information on the status of the ongoing response by Dana Air to the tragic accident of June 3, 2012, the company is will now be providing updates to the media, and on our website, on Tuesday and Friday each week.
- Dana Air would also like to clarify that its gesture of presenting cheques to the families of the 9 ‘severely affected’ residents of Iju-Ishaga, is a palliative measure to assist them in securing the preferred temporary accommodation of their choice. Of the 9 families in this category of affected residents (as per Lagos State Emergency Management Agency classification), 7 accepted the cheques while 2 requested that the gesture be explained. Prior to the gesture of Tuesday, July 3rd, the airline had provided relief materials to all affected residents and, in conjunction with LASEMA, had made advanced efforts in securing accommodation for the families. The decision to monetize the gesture at this point is based on the request by the affected families at a meeting between them and Dana Air officials on Thursday, 28th June, 2012. The company maintains contact with all the families and has given assurances that our Insurers will give adequate compensation to all residents who have been affected in varying degrees.
- Insurers of Dana Air are sparing no efforts in processing claims in accordance with the law. Cheques are being issued to the families towards interim payment of $30, 000 each, after completing legal verification of documentation and next-of-kin status. Completed claim forms submitted to Dana Air’s Crisis Management Centers (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja have been forwarded to our insurers for processing. We are in contact with all the families and have advised that they visit the chambers of Yomi Oshinkoya & Co, Solicitors appointed by our insurers, to complete advance payment formalities.
- To facilitate the payment process, Dana Air had deployed 3 dedicated toll-free lines, manned by trained personnel, to a Crisis Management Centre in Lagos and Abuja, and public announcements were made in the national dailies and local radio requesting affected families to come forward with details of the Next-Of-Kin, especially those whom the company had difficulty reaching. The airline will continue to provide these services until all claims have been addressed and settled.
- Dana Air appreciates that the statutory payments cannot compensate for any of the precious lives lost in the accident but we hope that it will lessen the pains of the families knowing that they are not alone in these extremely difficult times.
- Dana Air is maintaining contact with all the families, and will continue to offer all necessary assistance to them.
- Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing and Dana Air continues to co-operate fully with and offer all support to the investigating authorities.
- Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to engage the Lagos State Government and the management of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to expedite the process of identification of bodies, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per last update from the Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties and the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH on Tuesday, July 3, 2012, more DNA samples have been collected and will be sent to the UK for testing today. We will provide further updates as we get them.
24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are: LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288. ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145.
In order to provide up to date information on the status of the ongoing response by Dana Air to the tragic accident of June 3, 2012, the company is providing a daily update to the media and on our website.
- Dana Air would like to, once again clarify, that its gesture of presenting cheques to the families of the 9 ‘severely affected’ residents of Iju-Ishaga, is a palliative measure to assist them in securing the preferred temporary accommodation of their choice. Of the 9 families in this category of affected residents (as per Lagos State Emergency Management Agency classification), 7 accepted the cheques while 2 requested that the gesture be explained. Prior to the gesture of Tuesday, July 3rd, the Airline had provided relief materials to all affected residents and, in conjunction with LASEMA, had made advanced efforts in securing accommodation for the families. The decision to monetize the gesture at this point is based on the request by the affected families at a meeting between them and Dana Air officials on Thursday, 28th June, 2012. The company maintains contact with all the families and has given assurances that their Insurers will give adequate compensation to all residents who have been affectedin varying degrees.
- Insurers of Dana Air are saving no pain to process the claims in accordance with the law. So far, 9 cheques have been issued towards interim payment of $30, 000 each, after completing legal verification of documentation and next-of-kin status. As of Friday, July 6, 2012, 90 completed claim forms had been submitted to Dana Air’s Crisis Management Centers (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja, and these have been forwarded to our insurers for processing. We are in contact with all the families that have submitted necessary documents and have advised that they visit the chambers of Yomi Oshinkoya & Co, Solicitors appointed by our insurers, to complete advance payment formalities.
- Dana Air appreciates that the statutory payments cannot compensate for any of the precious lives lost in the accident but we hope that it will lessen the pains of the families knowing that they are not alone in these extremely difficult times
Help lines. 24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are: LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288. ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145.
- Dana Air would like to state, contrary to some media reports, that its gesture of presenting cheques to the families of the 9 ‘severely affected’ residents of Iju-Ishaga, is a palliative measure to assist them in securing the preferred temporary accommodation of their choice. Of the 9 families in this category of affected residents (as per Lagos State Emergency Management Agency classification), 7 accepted the cheques while 2 requested that the gesture be explained in writing before they will receive the cheque, and the airline is responding to this request. Prior to the gesture of Tuesday, July 3rd, the airline had provided relief materials to all affected residents and, in conjunction with LASEMA, had made advanced efforts in securing accommodation for the families. The decision to monetize the gesture at this point is based on the request by the affected families at a meeting between them and Dana Air officials on Thursday, 28th June, 2012. The company maintains contact with all the families and has given assurances that adequate compensation will be paid to all residents who have been affected in varying degrees and that this process is currently being handled by the insurers.
- The lead underwriter in Nigeria is Prestige Assurance Limited, and the company is currently coordinating the payment of interim benefits to the families, following legal verification of documentation and next of kin status by the appointed solicitors, Yomi Oshikoya & Co. An additional 8 completed claim forms were received today at Dana Air's Crisis Management Centre (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja, bringing the total received so far to 76. The company has advised that they come forward to the Chambers of Yomi Oshikoya & Co, in order to conclude advance payment formalities. As of Tuesday, July 3, 2012, 9 families had received cheques for interim benefits, after legal verification of documentation and next of kin status.
Yomi Oshikoya & Co. Legal Practitioners Owamojo Chambers Skywater Tower (4th Floor) 6, Otunba Yomi Oshikoya Drive Off Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way Ikeja, Lagos. Tel: 01-8502192, 08070966718, 08033351401
We are aware and perfectly understand and respect that most of the next of kin or legal representatives who submitted documents or are yet to visit the CMC and submit documentations to us, are still observing the customary mourning period. Advance payment claims will be concluded on a case by case basis as and when claimants find it convenient to come forward.
Helplines 24 hour assistance contact numbers for families are: LAGOS: 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288. ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145.
The lead company spokesperson for all media enquiries is Mr Tony Usidamen. He will be available daily on the following numbers to respond to specific enquiries.
Dana Air’s lead underwriter in Nigeria, today, issued cheques for interim benefits to 9 claimants, following legal verification of documentation and next of kin status. The company is in contact with all other families who have submitted relevant documents to Dana Air's Crisis Management Centre (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja, and has advised that they come forward to the chambers of Yomi Oshikoya & Co, appointed by the insurers in Lagos, in order to conclude advance payment formalities. As of Tuesday, July 3, 2012, the airline had received completed insurance forms for 68 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members. They have been submitted for verification.
Dana Air appreciates that the statutory payments cannot compensate for any of the precious lives lost in the accident but we hope that it will lessen the pains of the families knowing that they are not alone in these extremely difficult times.
As part of efforts to ensure proper rehabilitation of the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents Dana Air, today, presented cheques to all affected families as payment for new accommodation. Prior to today’s gesture, the airline, in conjunction with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), had made advanced efforts in securing accommodation for the families. The decision to monetize the gesture is based on the request by the affected families at a meeting between them and Dana Air officials last Thursday, 28th June, 2012.
Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to offer every form of assistance required by the hospital management and overseas laboratory to ensure that the process is completed as soon as possible, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per update from the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH on Monday, July 2, 2012, more DNA samples have been collected and will be sent to the UK for testing shortly.
Helplines
- Dana Air is fully aware of the mandatory requirement by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), for interim benefits to be paid to the families of the victims within 30 days of the accident.
- Members of the families who have submitted relevant documents to Dana Air's Crisis Management Centre (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja have been contacted and advised to visit the Chambers of Dana Air’s Solicitors in Nigeria for legal verification of documentation and next of kin status, in order to conclude advance payment formalities.
- As of Monday, July 2, 2012, the airline had received completed insurance forms for 64 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members. We are aware and perfectly understand and respect that most of the next of kin or legal representatives who submitted documents or are yet to visit the CMC and submit documentations to us, are still observing the customary mourning period. Advance payment claims will be concluded on a case by case basis as and when claimants find it convenient to come forward.
- Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to offer every form of assistance required by the hospital management and overseas laboratory to ensure that the process is completed as soon as possible, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per recent update from the Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, more DNA samples have been collected and will be sent to the UK for testing shortly.
Dana Air has reiterated the company’s readiness to make interim payment of benefits to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012 in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regulations.
According to Tony Usidamen, Dana Air’s Head of Corporate Communications, “Insurance funds are already in place. Members of the families who have submitted relevant documents to Dana Air's Crisis Management Centre (CMC) in Lagos and Abuja have been contacted and advised to visit the Chambers of Dana Air’s Solicitors in Nigeria for legal verification of documentation and next of kin status, in order to conclude advance payment formalities.”
Commenting further, Usidamen said, “As of Monday, July 2, 2012, the airline had received completed insurance forms for 64 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members. We are aware and perfectly understand and respect that most of the next of kin or legal representatives who submitted documents or are yet to visit the CMC and submit documentations to us, are still observing the customary mourning period. Advance payment claims will be concluded on a case by case basis as and when claimants find it convenient to come forward.”
To facilitate the payment process, Dana Air had deployed 3 dedicated toll-free lines, manned by trained personnel, to a CMC in Lagos and Abuja, and public announcements were made in the national dailies and local radio requesting affected families to come forward with details of the Next-Of-Kin, especially those whom the company had difficulty reaching. The airline will continue to provide these services until all claims have been addressed and settled.
“Dana Air appreciates that the statutory payments cannot compensate for any of the precious lives lost in the accident but we hope that it will lessen the pains of the families knowing that they are not alone in these extremely difficult times”, Usidamen stated.
- An additional completed claim form was received today, bringing the total received so far to 58. The airline is calling on all families who are yet to come forward with the necessary documentation to please do so, in order for us to promptly fulfil our obligation to them.
- The airline has since set machinery in motion to ensure that compensation is fully and duly paid. Teams comprising staff of Dana Air, counsellors and clergy have been visiting the affected families to condole with them and also to provide information on claims administration and payment.
- Dana Air has now made direct contact with 119 of the 120 families who lost loved ones in the accident and have also made contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of foreign nationals involved. As of the Close of business on Friday, June 29, the company had received completed insurance forms for 57 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members. These forms have been forwarded to our insurers for processing, and initial payments should be made to as many families shortly.
- Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to offer every form of assistance required by the hospital management and overseas laboratory to ensure that the process is completed as soon as possible, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest.
Our entire management and the over 540 staff of Dana Air wish to express our profound appreciation to you for your prayers and enquiries since the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012 in which all 153 guests and crew on board Dana Air aircraft, with registration number 5N-RAM, and 4 residents of Iju-Ishaga community lost their lives.
• As operators of the aircraft, we have been in shock since the incident. We would like to first of all extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. It is so painful and we are still hurting like all households across Nigeria. We too lost friends, as well as some of our best crew, on the ill-fated flight.
• At this time, all of the senior management team of Dana Air are focused on providing assistance to the families, and also full cooperation to the authorities carrying out investigations into the cause of the accident. As yet, the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) has not shared with us any of the information that it has due to it being an ongoing exercise, and as a result we are limited in the facts that we can provide. However, we are doing everything within our power to ensure that the facts are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action taken to ensure such a tragedy can never happen again.
• Following the incident, Standard Airline Emergency Response Procedures were initiated and an information hotline and family support centres were immediately established. Crisis Management Centres have since been set up by the airline in Lagos and Abuja to offer support and counselling to all affected, and toll-free numbers and other contact details have been circulated and announced for families to contact for information and assistance.
• On the identification and release of bodies to the families, Dana Air continues to engage with the Lagos State Government and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) to expedite the process as much as possible so that families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per last update from LASUTH on Friday, 22nd June, 98% of DNA samples had been sent to a UK laboratory for testing. So far, 17 bodies have been properly identified and released to the families.
• While we appreciate that no amount of compensation can make up for any of the lives lost, the airline is fully prepared to honour its duty to the families of the departed as stipulated by the law governing tragedies such as this. To facilitate the completion of claims forms, and prompt payment of benefits to the affected families, we have established dedicated toll-free lines to the Crisis Management Centre to provide assistance. The company will continue to provide this service until all claims have been addressed and settled.
• At present, the airline has made direct contact with 119 of the 120 families who lost loved ones in the accident, and is also in contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of the foreign nationals involved. These families and embassies have been sent letters of condolence and subsequent communication about the insurance documentation necessary in order to facilitate compensation payments. As at the close of business on Friday, June 29, the company had received completed insurance forms from 57 families (4 of which are our staff members), and our insurers are currently processing these. For avoidance of doubt, Dana Air has all required insurance cover and was fully up to date with policy payments.
• Dana Air is leaving no stone unturned towards the rehabilitation of the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents. Initial steps have been taken to provide relief materials and the company is currently working with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to provide proper accommodation, and other forms of aid, as quickly as possible. The company is also in contact with members of the community who lost properties as a result of the incident and has given assurances that adequate compensation will be paid to them as soon as possible; updates on steps being taken will be provided to all affected persons on a regular basis.
• Once again, on behalf of everyone at Dana Air, allow us to extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this tragic accident. Our prayers and thoughts are with them forever.
• Dana Air will continue to offer the families assistance, and will provide further updates when possible.
Response to media coverage (Insurance and contact with the families of the victims)
- Dana Air would like to respond to media coverage regarding an ultimatum issued by the Federal House of Representatives for payment of benefits to be made to all the families who lost loved ones in the ill-fated flight by June 3, 2012.
- Dana Air has now made direct contact with 119 of the 120 families who lost loved ones in the accident and have also made contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of foreign nationals involved. As of the Close of business on Friday, June 29, the company had received completed insurance forms for 57 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members. These forms have been forwarded to our insurers for processing, and initial payments should be made to as many families shortly. The airline is also calling on all families who are yet to come forward with the necessary documentation to please do so, in order for us to promptly fulfil our obligation to them.
- Management and staff of Dana Air, today, joined colleagues in the industry, as well as families of the airline’s departed crew members, in a memorial service for all who lost their lives in the tragic accident. The service, which was organised by the National Cabin Crew Association, was held at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Ikeja, Lagos.
- Officials of Dana Air, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents were scheduled to meet today to finalise the process of securing permanent accommodation for the families but, on the request of the residents, the meeting has been postponed to Tuesday, 3rd July, 2012. We will keep you updated.
- Officials of Dana Air, today, met with the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents to brief them on the progress made so far in securing proper accommodation, and also to get their feedback. This feedback will form the basis for a meeting with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) on Friday, June 29 to finalise the process.
- The company has now made direct contact with 119 of the 120 families who lost loved ones in the accident and have also made contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of those victims from other countries. These families and embassies have been sent letters of condolence and the insurance documentation necessary in order to facilitate compensation payments.
- As of the Close of business on Thursday, June 28, the company had received completed insurance forms for 50 of the victims, 4 of which are our staff members.
To facilitate the completion of claims forms by the families the company has established toll free lines to a crisis management centre to provide assistance. The company will continue to provide this service until all claims have been addressed and settled.
- Dana Air shares the pain felt by the families of the victims and continues to offer all possible assistance to the hospital management and the overseas laboratory responsible for managing the process of identifying the victims. As per last update received from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital on 22nd June, 98% of the required DNA samples had been sent to a UK Laboratory for testing.
- Dana Air, today, met with officials of LASEMA regarding plans to provide proper accommodation for the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents, and we can confirm that machinery has been set in motion to resolve this as quickly as possible. The company is also in contact with members of the community who lost properties as a result of the incident and has given assurances that adequate compensation will be paid to them as soon as possible; updates on steps being taken will be given directly to all affected persons on a regular basis.
- As of the Close of business on Monday, June 26, the company had received completed insurance forms for 37 of the victims, 2 of which are our staff members.
- Dana Air would like to respond to media coverage suggesting that expatriate staff of the airline have left the company’s employment since the accident. Of the over 450 staff of the airline, most of whom are Nigerians, not one has left the company's employment. Dana Air is committed to finding out the cause of the unfortunate accident and some of our expatriate staff are among the airline’s officials currently assisting the investigating authorities in this regard. All Dana Air staff are voluntarily assisting in one way or the other, especially with respect to visiting the affected families and providing information on processing of insurance claims.
- Investigations into the cause of the accident is still on-going and Dana Air continues to offer every form of assistance to the investigating authorities
- Dana Air shares in the pains of the affected families and continues to offer every form of assistance required by the hospital authorities and overseas laboratory to ensure that the process is completed as soon as possible, so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per last update on Friday, 22nd June, 98% of DNA samples had been successfully collected and dispatched to a UK laboratory for testing.
- The company has now made direct contact with 118 families who lost loved ones in the accident and have also made contact with the 9 embassies managing communications with the families of those victims from other countries. These families and embassies have been sent letters of condolence and the insurance documentation necessary in order to facilitate compensation payments.
- As of the Close of business on Monday, June 25, the company had received completed insurance forms for 34 of the victims, 2 of which are our staff members.
-Dana Air would like to respond to media coverage suggesting that the airline was operating a free seating policy at the time of the accident and that this might hinder the investigation being carried out by the AIB. The Company can state categorically that our free seating policy was halted in August 2011 and, except on very rare occasions where flights were combined, Dana Air has since operated an allocated seating system, which was the case with flight 9J-992 of Sunday, June 3, 2012.
-Dana Air would also like to respond to media speculation that the company did not have the requisite insurance or was behind on its insurance premium payments. Dana Air has all required insurance cover and was fully up to date with policy payments. Dana Air’s insurers are:
o Nigeria: Prestige Assurance Plc is Lead Underwriter
o International: Lloyds of London
o The flight had two levels of cover, US$4.5 million for the value of the plane and US$350 million for third party liabilities
- Dana Air would also like to confirm, contrary to some media reports, that the company is leaving no stone unturned towards the rehabilitation of the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents. Initial steps have been taken to provide relief materials and the company is currently working with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to provide proper accommodation, and other forms of aid, as soon as possible. Steps have also been taken to assess loss/damage to properties, and adequate compensation will soon be made to affected residents.
- On identification and release of bodies to the families, Dana Air continues to engage with the Lagos State Government and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to ensure that the process is expedited so that families can lay their loved ones to rest. As per last update on Friday, 22nd June, 98% of DNA samples had been successfully collected and dispatched to a UK laboratory for testing while the remainder will be sent today
- The company has now made direct contact with 103 of the 112 families who lost loved ones in the accident and have also made contact with the 6 embassies managing communications with the families of those victims from other countries. These families and embassies have been sent letters of condolence and the insurance documentation necessary in order to facilitate compensation payments.
- As of the Close of business on Friday June 25, the company had received completed insurance forms for 34 of the victims, 2 of which are our staff members.
- NCAA guidelines require that, where possible, initial compensation payments be made within 30 days of the accident taking place.
- NCAA guidelines set the compensation level at US$100,000 per victim.
- The Company continues to work around the clock with our insurers and the relevant authorities to ensure that the families of the victims are able to process insurance claims.
In response to the invitation by the joint Senate and House of Representative public hearing on the Dana Air accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012 and allied air accidents, top management officials of the airline are in Abuja to provide answers to the committee’s questions and to reaffirm the company’s commitment to providing all possible assistance to the investigating authorities, as well as support for families of the victims.
Chief Executive Officer, Jacky Hathiramani, Director of Flight Operations, Captain Oscar Wason and Head – Quality, Dave Sambo are among officials who have been attending the hearings, with Mr Hathiramani reading a formal statement to the committee (copied below).
Dana Air continues to work around the clock with our insurers and the relevant authorities to ensure that the families of the victims are able to process insurance claims. As at this time, the airline has received 20 fully completed claim forms from families, and will provide a daily update on the number of claims that are being processed and the payments that have been made.
To facilitate the completion of claims forms by the families the airline has established toll free lines to a crisis management centre to provide assistance, and it will continue to provide this service until all claims have been addressed and settled. The company has also published adverts in the national dailies requesting families whom it has had difficulty reaching to come forward with details of the next of kin, for prompt payment of benefits.
24 hour assistance contact numbers:
LAGOS: 01-2809888 & 08052697500 & 08077291288
ABUJA: 07044213849 & 07026672145
Toll-free numbers have been opened at 0809 993 7312, 0809 993 7313, 0809 993 7314 for calls from Nigeria
NB: We ask journalists not to call these numbers, which are reserved for families and close relatives.
Press Desk: Toll-free lines 0809 993 7309, 0809 993 7311
Statement
Distinguished and Honourable Chairmen of the Senate and House Joint Committee on Aviation
Distinguished and Honourable members of the committee on aviation Members of the press
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen
1. As operators of the aircraft, we have been in shock since the tragic events of 3rd June. We would like to first of all extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. It is so painful and we are also still hurting like all households across Nigeria. We too lost some friends on board as well as some of our best crew on that I'll fated flight. We wish to re-iterate our commitment to the families and to all Nigerians to do everything within our power to ensure that the facts are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action taken to ensure such a tragedy can never happen again.
2. We are cooperating fully with the AIB and have provided them with all aircraft technical maintenance logs and records, as well as crew licences and other relevant training details. These remain in the custody and control of the AIB.
3. The AIB has not shared any of the information that it has with us yet about their investigation and as a result we are limited in the facts that we can provide. However, we have provided a summary of the information that we are able to give you at this point.
4. The aircraft had operated earlier in the day as flight 9J 999, departing Lagos at 0831 am local time with 135 passengers to Abuja;
5. The Aircraft then returned from Abuja to Lagos as flight 9J 998 at 1024 am with 141 passengers on board;
6. The aircraft operated as Flight 9J 993 from Lagos to Abuja with 141 passengers at 1251 hours;
7. The aircraft was returning from Abuja to Lagos as Flight 9J 992 at 1458 hours with 153 passengers and crew when the tragic incident occurred.
8. The make and type of the aircraft involved in the accident was a Boeing MD 83;
9. The aircraft involved had no reported defects throughout the period of operation before the tragic incident;
10. The aircraft had even operated five flights in the previous day (June 2, 2012);
11. The pilots of the flight held current Licenses and Class 1 medicals. The cabin crew were well trained on handling emergency situations in the cabin. Everything was as per regulations and in accordance with the law.
12. Following the incident, Standard Airline Emergency Response Procedures were initiated and an information hotline and family support centres were immediately established. Crisis Management Centres have been since set up by us in Lagos and Abuja to offer support to all affected and to offer counselling, plus toll free numbers and other contacts have been circulated and announced for families to contact for information and assistance. We are working closely with the LASUTH CMD and the Honourable Commissioner of Special Duties for Lagos State, and the LASEMA team to coordinate with family members to console with them.
13. Since the incident took place we have focused on two key priorities. The first is to ensure that we adhere to and where possible exceed all regulatory requirements, co-operating fully with the authorities to provide all necessary information that could provide any insight into the cause of the accident. The second is to provide as much support for the families of the victims as we can. We will continue to do so for as long as is necessary.
14. Alongside our commitment to providing all necessary information and support to the AIB, we are, and will continue to be fully committed to ensuring that the process required to ensure payment of just and fair compensation to the families of the victims will be implemented. We are working closely with the authorities to ensure that this process runs as smoothly as possible. Advance payments will be made to those relatives who come forward within 30 days of the accident and thereafter.
15. Once again, full cooperation with the investigative authorities will continue to be maintained throughout the process.
16. We would like to extend our thanks to the AIB and especially commend the Ministry of Aviation for their support and professionalism during this exceptionally difficult time. We also thank this joint committee for their efforts in getting to root issues on the aviation industry.
17. Finally, allow us to once again extend, on behalf of everyone at Dana Air, our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this tragic accident. Our prayers and thoughts are with them forever.
Thank you
Dana Air, today, joined hundreds of Nigerians in a multi-faith service for those who lost their lives in the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012. The candlelight service, which held at the Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, was organized by S.E.E.D.S – an independent Non-Governmental Organisation.
Officials and cabin crew of the airline turned out en masse to join their voices with the entire nation in prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed, and also for their families. The largely attended, highly emotional service featured songs, poetry and readings in honour of the departed.
Commenting on the service, Tony Usidamen, Dana Air’s Head of Corporate Communications said “There are no words to adequately express our grief and sorrow over this tragedy which affects everyone in one way or the other. Families have lost their loved ones, and the nation has lost eminent citizens, as well as promising young ones. We too have lost some of our finest and most dedicated staff, colleagues and friends.”
“We identify with the organizers of the event and with all Nigerians in these dark moments in the life of our nation. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Dana Air remain with the families and friends of the deceased in these extremely difficult times, and we will continue to assist them in every way possible”, Usidamen added.
Dana Airlines Limited (Dana Air) began scheduled flights on November 10, 2008 and has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating over 18,933 flights and carrying over 1,600,366 passengers since its inception.
The management of Dana Air has restated that the primary focus of the airline is to provide support and assistance to the families of those affected by the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012. In the same vein, the airline is committed to providing full assistance to the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) in determining the cause of the unfortunate accident.
“At this time, all of the senior management team of Dana Air is focused on providing assistance to the families of the departed, and also full cooperation to the authorities carrying out the investigation. As yet, the cause of the accident remains unknown. Investigations are still on-going and it will not be right for anyone to speculate until the reports have been submitted”, said Jacky Hathiramani, Chief Executive Officer of the airline.
Dana Air, on Thursday, made fresh efforts to support families with their insurance claims. In a statement issued by the airline, the company called on relatives of the deceased, some of whom they have had difficulties reaching out to, to please come forward with details of the next-of-kin for insurance purposes.
“The company fully realizes how painful this is for the families, and fully recognizes the need to handle this process promptly and sensitively. We do not imagine that this will make up for the pains that you are going through but the company will continue to make every possible effort to assist all those affected”, the statement read.
Since the incident on June 3, the Chairman, Directors and top management staff of the company have been visiting the families of those affected including the injured who have subsequently been discharged from the hospital. Relief materials have also been arranged for the displaced Iju-Ishaga residents, and the airline is working closely with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to ensure that they are properly rehabilitated.
Dana Air will continue to offer the families assistance, and will provide further updates as we get them.
Dana Air has today made fresh efforts to support families with their insurance claims following the tragic accident of 3rd June, 2012. The company calls on relatives of the deceased, some of whom they have had difficulties reaching out to, to please come forward with details of the next-of-kin for insurance purposes.
Dana Air has set up Crisis Management Centres with dedicated toll-free lines that are manned by well-trained professionals to lend assistance to the next-of-kin. However the company was keen to do even more to ensure that those affected were fully aware of the insurance process and the documentation required.
The company fully realizes how painful this is for the families, and fully recognizes the need to handle this process promptly and sensitively. We do not imagine that this will make up for the pains that you are going through but the company will continue to make every possible effort to assist all those affected.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Dana Air remain with you at this time.
Dana Air has put structures in place to ensure prompt payment of benefits to families of those who lost their lives in the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012. Consequently, it has opened three dedicated toll-free lines, manned by well trained personnel, solely for claims administration and payment procedures.
Within 24hrs of the unfortunate incident, the airline had set up a Crisis Management Center at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) to assist families and relatives of victims with useful information. The airline’s decision to open dedicated toll-free lines, said Jacky Hathiramani, Chief Executive Officer of Dana Air, is to make it easier for the bereaved to get necessary details on payment of claims.
Teams comprising Dana Air officials and trained counselors have been visiting the families to condole with them, as well as to provide information on requirements for speedy payment of benefits to the next-of-kin.
“We appreciate that no level of compensation will bring back your much loved one. Nevertheless, we are making arrangements as quickly as possible to compensate every bereaved family in accordance with the law that governs tragedies such as this, and in honor of our duty to you and others”, a letter signed by Hathiramani to the families of the deceased stated.
Hathiramani also stated, “We do not imagine that this will make up for the pains that you are going through but we, however, hope that this lessens your pain knowing that you are not alone in these difficult times.”
Dana Air insurers, a London consortium, are already well advanced in the payment process, and the first (interim) payments should be made shortly to the families of those passengers who lost their lives. Also urgent steps have been taken by the insurers to identify the families of the Iju-Ishaga community and establish the extent of the losses to enable appropriate calculations of the compensation to be made.
Dana Air will continue to make every possible effort to assist the families of all those affected.
24 hour assistance numbers:
Dana Air confirmed that it will work together with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA). This is to ensure that residents of Iju-Ishaga community who were displaced as a result of the Dana Air accident of Sunday, 3 June 2012 are properly cared for.
The airline affirmed its support for LASEMA, an organ of the Lagos State Government set up primarily to coordinate activities of all relevant government Ministries/Agencies including NGOs in disaster management, at a stakeholder meeting held on Monday 11 June, 2012.
“We are grateful to the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, for his leadership and personal involvement since the tragedy, and we continue to work together with LASEMA to provide the necessary aid and assistance to all the displaced families at the state relief camp at Ayobo-Ipaja, Lagos State ”, said Tony Usidamen, Head – Corporate Communications of the airline.
Dana Air remains focused on offering assistance to all those who were affected by the June 3 accident. The Chairman, Directors and management officials of the Dana Air have been visiting the 45 displaced Iju-Ishaga residents, including 4 persons currently receiving treatment at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja.
Dana Air will continue to make every possible effort to assist the families of all those effected.
3 toll-free numbers have been opened at 0809 993 7312, 0809 993 7313, 0809 993 7314 for calls from Nigeria
It is one week since the tragic accident of Dana Air Flight 992, and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at the airline remain with the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
Senior management representatives from Dana Air, along with specially trained counselors and psychotherapists, have been visiting the families of the departed.
We are liaising closely with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital to ensure that the identification procedures can be completed as quickly as possible so that the families can lay their loved ones to rest.
We have put in place an assistance programme for the 41 residents of Iju-Ishaga community who lost their homes as a result of the accident, and have been visiting, in hospital, the four residents who were injured.
We are arranging temporary accommodation for them all, and are providing materials such as beds, blankets food items and cooking utensils.
Safety is, and has always been, of paramount importance to everyone at Dana Air. We are continuing to offer complete cooperation and assistance to the Accident Investigation Bureau in their investigation, and we will continue do so for as long as they require.
Dana Air will continue to offer the families assistance, and will provide further updates when possible.
3 toll-free numbers have been opened at 0809 993 7312, 0809 993 7313, 0809 993 7314 for calls from Nigeria.
As part of its effort to bring succor to those who were injured during Dana Air mishap of Sunday, June 3, 2012, the management of Dana Air have been visiting the injured victims admitted at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja.
Speaking during a recent visit, a Director of the company, Gautam Hathiramani, said that the airline is deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident. He empathized with the injured and their relatives, and promised that the airline will continue to offer its assistance to ensure they fully recover to live their normal lives again.
Hathiramani also said that Dana Air will offset the medical bill of all four patients who suffered varying degrees of injury as a result of the accident, and that services of counselors and psychotherapists have been deployed to help manage their trauma, anxieties and fear.
Since the incident, the Chairman, Directors and top management officials of the Dana Air have continued to pay visits to the displaced persons at Iju-Ishaga and also the injured who are receiving medical care in LASUTH. The airline is also providing relief materials on a continuous basis.
Crisis Information Centre:
Top management of Dana Air, Friday, donated relief materials to families affected by the Dana Air mishap of Sunday, June 3, 2012 at Iju-Ishaga area of Lagos State. This is just as the airline deployed a team of counselors and psychotherapists to assist and manage trauma, anxiety and associated ailments of families affected by the incident.
In his remark during the visit, Gautam Hathiramani, a Director at Dana Air, said “there is no way to sufficiently express our sadness over this tragic incident that has brought tears to the eyes of many. Little children have been orphaned and many have lost their properties to the accident.”
“Our hearts are with you in this trying period and we will continue to do everything we can to support you. We are making arrangements for accommodation shortly, and we will ensure that all who have lost their properties in the unfortunate incident get their dues”, he said.
Since the unfortunate incident last Sunday, the Chairman, Directors and management officials of the company have made several visits to the crash site to condole with the affected families and the Iju-Ishaga community at large. The provision of relief materials, the company has said, will be a continuous exercise.
Materials distributed include mattresses, blankets, food items, clothes and kitchen utensils, among others.
At Dana Air, the safety of our passengers and crew is of paramount importance.
The aircraft involved in the accident, a Boeing MD83 (Registration Number 5N-RAM), was maintained correctly and fully in accordance with the manufacturers schedule and directives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.
It had its last 400-hourly check (A-Check) on 30th May, 2012. The statutory annual maintenance (C-Check) was not due until September 2012. The Certificate of Airworthiness issued by the NCCA after its last C-Check was completely valid as at the time of the accident.
We adhere strictly to the maintenance schedule of all our aircraft as prescribed by the manufacturers, and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. Dana Air has a maintenance agreement with MyTechnic - an international, world-class aviation maintenance organisation (MRO) which is located at our Lagos base. It performs and supervises all local maintenance tasks including the daily servicing and release of our aircraft for operations. Our heavy scheduled maintenance checks (i.e. C-checks) are done by leading MRO companies overseas.
COMMENTS MADE BY JACKY HATHIRAMANI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF DANA AIRLINES LIMITED AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE DANA AIR ACCIDENT OF SUNDAY, JUNE 3, 2012 HELD ON THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2012 AT THE SKYLINE HOTEL, IKEJA, LAGOS.
It is with a heavy heart that I address you today following the tragic accident of Sunday, June 3, 2012 involving Dana Air Flight 9J 992 with Registration Number 5N-RAM, in which 153 persons onboard and 10 persons at the site of the accident lost their lives.
There are absolutely no words to accurately express our grief and sorrow over this tragedy.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and friends of the departed, the Iju-Ishaga community and all Nigerians in this difficult time. We will continue to do our best to assist them in every way possible.
Shortly after the accident, we opened a 24 hour Call Centre service (please see numbers below) and dedicated information centre at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) in Lagos.
At this time, all of the senior management team of Dana Air is focused on providing assistance to the families, and also fully cooperating with the authorities carrying out the investigation.As yet,the cause of the accident remains unknown.
Our chairman, Mr Ramesh Hathiramani, has been to the site of the accident several times to commiserate with the families of those affected and the wider community. Relief materials are being arranged for those displaced as a result of the unfortunate incident.Yesterday afternoon, senior management representatives from Dana Air took part in a press conference at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, to update the families on the current situation. We are grateful to his Excellency, Mr President, the Governor of Lagos State and the Honourable Minister of Aviation, for their exemplary leadership during this dark moment in the life of our great nation.Dana Air will continue to offer the families assistance, and will provide further updates as we get them.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Dana Air are with the families of those who have tragically lost their lives in the accident involving Flight 992 on 3rd June, 2012.
Dana Air continues to offer the families every possible assistance.Shortly after the accident, it opened a 24 hour call telephone line(see numbers below) and a dedicated information centre at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 2.
All of the senior management team of Dana Air are singly focused on providing assistance to the families, and also full cooperation to the authorities carrying out the investigation. As yet, the cause of the accident remains unknown.
Yesterday afternoon, senior management representatives took part in a press conference at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital,to update the families on the current situation.
Chairman of Dana Air, Ramesh Hathiramani, today met with the families of victims of the June 3, 2012 air mishap involving Flight 9J-992 from Lagos to Abuja in which all 153 persons onboard lost their lives.
Hathiramani addressed the family members of the departed who gathered at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja morgue where the remains of victims recovered from the site of the accident were taken. “Words are not enough to express our grief at this tragedy and we want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in this extremely difficult period.”
Hathiramani listened patiently as they shared their pain and difficulties in locating and retrieving the remains of their loved ones, and promised that the airline would do everything possible to ensure that their concerns are handled. “When you do have a fatality, it is your responsibility to step up to the plate”, he said.
The Dana Air Chairman also visited the site of the accident (his second in 3 days) to commiserate with the affected families and residents. He commended the officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for the progress made so far in the recovery operation. About 151 bodies have been recovered.
The Information centre set up at MMA2 and NCAA news desk are still open to cater to the needs of families and relatives, and keep them as quickly informed as possible. Our Help-lines are: LAGOS - 01-2809888, 08052697500 & 08077291288 and Abuja - 07044213849 & 07026672145.
Dana Air confirms that the Flight Voice Recorder and Black Box from the Boeing MD83 aircraft which was involved in a tragic accident on Sunday, June 3 have been recovered by the joint team comprising the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
A flight data recorder (FDR) (also ADR, for accident data recorder) is an electronic device employed to record any instructions sent to any electronic systems on an aircraft. It is a device used to record specific aircraft performance parameters. Popularly referred to as a "black box", the data recorded by the FDR is used for accident investigation, as well as for analyzing air safety issues, material degradation and engine performance.
The recovery has raised hopes of finding out the cause of the crash. According to Jacky Hathiramani, CEO of Dana Air, “We are grateful for the progress made by the aviation authorities towards determining the cause of the unfortunate accident and we will continue to offer our full support while the investigations last.”
"There are absolutely no words to accurately express our grief and sorrow over this tragedy. We have not only lost some of the most loyal and valued guests of the airline but also eminent citizens, as well as promising young ones, to the accident. We have also lost some of the finest and most dedicated staff that any organisation can dream of.”
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and friends of the deceased in these difficult times, and we will continue to do our best to assist them in every way possible. The recovery operation at the site of the accident is proceeding well and 109 bodies had been recovered as at the time of making this statement. Our 24-hour call centre service is still ongoing and we have experienced personnel at the dedicated MMA2 information centre and NCCA desk to attend to any enquiries.”
The Dana Air family is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the passengers and crew of Flight 9J-922 of Sunday, June 3, 2012. The aircraft, with Registration Number 5N-RAM, departed Abuja for Lagos with 146 passengers onboard. 1 Dana Air Flight Engineer, 2 Pilots and 4 Cabin Crew were also aboard the flight.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the deceased, and we are doing everything we can to assist them in this extremely difficult time. A 24hr Call Centre service has been initiated and we have also set up an information center at MMA2 to look after their needs and keep them as quickly informed as possible.
An investigation into the cause of the accident got under way immediately, under the guidance of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), who are being assisted by investigators from the U.S. National Safety Transportation Board (NTSB). Dana Air is cooperating fully and assisting the investigation in every possible way.
In accordance with international protocol governing aviation accident investigations, all information about the investigation will come from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. Dana Air will however provide information relating to the flight itself and updates on steps being taken.
Once again, we at Dana Air extend our profoundest condolences.
Jacky Hathiramani
Chief Executive Officer
To cater to the demands of its esteemed guests this festive season and beyond, multiple award-winning airline, Dana Air,has increased flight frequencies on its Lagos-Port Harcourt-Lagos route and is set to commence operations to the city of Calabar this December.
In a statement made available to aviation correspondents, Chief Executive Officer of Dana Air, Jacky Hathiramani, said that the airline has introduced an additional flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt at 13:32hrs and from Port Harcourt to Lagos at 15:30hrs. The airline would also commence flights from Lagos to Calabar at 17:28hrs with a return flight from Calabar to Lagos at 19:28hrs on December 18, 2011.
While addressing newsmen in Lagos during its 3rd year anniversary celebrations in November 2011, Hathiramani had promised, “We are aware of the demand for extension of our world-class services to more Nigerian cities and the west coast, and wish to state that plans are underway to expand our route network in the first quarter of 2012 in line with our growth plan.
The commencement of operations to Calabar is in fulfillment of that promise. “Now the good people of Cross River State can enjoy the same world-class services that Dana Air is renowned for on all its other routes. Our goal is to meet, and even exceed, the travel expectations of guests flying in and out of Calabar, either for business or pleasure,” Hathiramani stated.
We thank the Government of Cross River State, under the able leadership of Governor Liyel Imoke, the Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah, the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Harold Demuren, and other aviation regulatory bodies for their efforts towards ensuring a safe operating environment for operators.
Since its inaugural flight from Lagos to Abuja on November 10, 2008, Dana Air has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines operating up to 27 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Uyo and, now, Calabar.
Recipient of several awards for aviation service excellence, Dana Air is reputed for its efficient customer services, world-class in-flight services, on-time departures and arrivals, innovative e-airline products and high safety and quality standard.
As Dana Air celebrates three years of successful flight operations on November 10, 2011, Chief Executive Officer, Jacky Hathiramani, has pledged the airline’s commitment to improved travel experience for its esteemed guests as well as expansion of its route network.
Addressing newsmen in Lagos, Hathiramani expressed appreciation to the airline’s guests, partners as well as other stakeholders in the aviation industry for their patronage and support since Dana Air took to the skies on November 10, 2008.
In his words, “As we celebrate our 3rd year anniversary we say thank you to all our esteemed guests and partners. We also appreciate the efforts of the Federal Government, the immediate past Minister of Aviation, Fidelia Njeze, the serving Minister, Stella Oduah, the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Harold Demuren, and other aviation regulatory bodies for their efforts towards creating a viable aviation sector in Nigeria.”
“We will not relent in our efforts but continue to strive to improve on our services and offerings. We are aware of the demand for extension of our world-class services to more Nigerian cities and the west coast, and wish to state that plans are underway to expand our route network in the first quarter of 2012 in line with our growth plan”, Hathiramani assured.
Dana Air’s vision is ‘to be recognized and respected as Nigeria's most reliable and customer-friendly airline’ and her mission is ‘to earn the loyalty and respect of our customers by consistently demonstrating our commitment to service, and providing affordable regional air transport services that focus on innovation, quality and service excellence’.
Since its inaugural flight from Lagos to Abuja three years ago, Dana Air has grown to become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines operating over 18 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Uyo, and lifting over 1.26million guests till date.
Multiple award-winning airline, Dana Air, is set to heighten the flying experience of its esteemed guests with the introduction of CLOUD9, its maiden in-flight magazine. CLOUD9 is a newsstand-style magazine with an independent outlook aimed at Dana Air's modern and discerning guests. It features a good blend of tourism, food, health, style, music, art, and also includes an engaging mix of celebrity interviews, opinion and trend pieces.
According to Jacky Hathiramani, Chief Executive Officer of Dana Air, “CLOUD9 reflects our understanding of the interests and needs of our guests, and it will contribute towards an interesting and engaging in-flight experience; everything, from the brilliant articles to the enthralling images, has been well thought out and carefully put together to amplify the flying experience of our guests.”
“The name ‘CLOUD9’ evokes the feeling of bliss, and the slogan ‘Love All, Serve All’ reflects the Dana Air corporate philosophy of giving more to our esteemed guests. We have made every effort to tailor the editorial content targeting our multicultural, multi-ethnic guests, whether they are travelling for business or leisure”, Hathiramani remarked. In less than three (3) years of commencing operations Dana Air has become one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating over 18 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Uyo.
Recipient of several awards for aviation service excellence, Dana Air is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight services, on-time departure and arrival, innovative e-airline products and high safety and quality standard.
Multiple award-winning airline, Dana Air, has emerged the ‘Most Endorsed Airline in CSR’ at the CSR Nigeria Awards 2011 held at 10 Degrees Event Centre, Billings Way, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos.
CSR Nigeria Awards is Nigeria’s premier corporate responsibility award, recognizing and celebrating corporate organizations and foundations for their integration of social and environmental concerns in their business operations, and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis.
According to the Project Coordinator of CSR Nigeria Award, Mr. Taye Olowokere, “Dana Air knocked off competition from other local and international airlines within the country to emerge most endorsed airline in CSR based on its extensive involvement in a number of charitable projects through the Sri Sai Vandana Foundation.”
“Some of the projects include the Dana Air In-flight Envelope Donation Scheme which has helped raise funds for the National Sickle Cell Centre and several orphanages across Nigeria, and the Kidz Fly programme which has afforded children from public schools across the country the opportunity of being onboard an aircraft and visiting another state of the federation for, perhaps, the first time in their lives,” Olowokere added.
In his response, Chief Executive Officer of Dana Air, Jacky Hathiramani expressed gratitude to the organizers of the CSR Nigeria Awards for the honour. He re-iterated the airlines commitment to proactively promoting the public interest by encouraging community growth and development through the Sri Sai Vandana Foundation.
Sri Sai Vandana Foundation is a charitable trust, serving as an avenue through which Dana Group and its subsidiaries fulfill her corporate social responsibility to the society. The Foundation has, since 1995, been involved in a lot of community development projects as well as providing support to foundations or organizations that share the same objectives.
Dana Air is one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating over 18 daily flights to Abuja, Lagos Port-Harcourt and Uyo. Recipient of several awards for aviation service excellence, the airline is reputed for its efficient customer services, world- class in-flight services, on-time departures and arrivals, innovative e-airline products and high safety and quality standards.