This archive report was first published on 4 May 2021.
On May 4, 2021, United Aviation Solutions (UTD) and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) launched the Brown Condor Initiative (BCI), a platform aimed at supporting North American airlines in Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services and assets.
The initiative was created to ensure the reliable delivery of equipment and services to airline customers and channel partners. To showcase the BCI initiative, UTD and AFRAA will conduct weekly webinars featuring a Virtual Reality (VR) presentation.
According to AFRAA Secretary General Abdérahmane Berthé, the BCI will provide aviation stakeholders access to market-leading services to support the development of Africa's aviation industry. Berthé stated, “The BCI will provide aviation stakeholders access to market-leading services to support the development of Africa’s aviation industry. The strengths of AFRAA member airlines are key to the solutions offered for the global crisis in aviation.”
Mr. Berthé added, “AFRAA is collaborating with innovative thinkers to utilize the downturn in our industry to provide new sustainable opportunities to African airlines.”
UTD CEO Dahir Mohammed emphasized the importance of cooperation among AFRAA airlines, stating, “Cooperation among AFRAA airlines is paramount for sustainability of the air transport industry. UTD recognized the domestic crisis in US aviation and aftermarket purchasing before the global pandemic hit. Through its association with AFRAA and the BCI, UTD has identified ways in which African aviation could provide the necessary solutions to the North American aviation industry, namely MRO Services, USM Exchange, and an Aviation Academy for developing future technicians and aviation personnel.”
The Brown Condor Initiative was named in honor of the first African American fighter pilot, Colonel John C Robinson. UTD CEO Dahir Mohammed said, “Colonel John C. Robinson is an inspiration to all of us who believe in the power and spirit of aviation to change the world. We are going to change the world in his name and build on his legacy of self-confidence, determination, and working for the greater good.”
AFRAA's recovery plan, developed in 2020, encompasses actions to navigate through COVID-19, anchored on 9 pillars. The portal addresses actions under pillars on cost management, cargo operations, and business continuity.
