IN an effort to boost the province’s economy, badly impacted by rioting and floods, KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube officiated the launch of the Fuze Aviation Academy Training Programme at Oribi Airport in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday.

This historic first for the province is aimed at job creation, skills development, and supporting youth in the aviation sector.

ALSO READ: Aquadene youth sport tournament

Speaking at the launch, Dube-Ncube said this was a ground-breaking initiative because it marks the entry of black men and women into a white-dominated industry.

“Today, we are launching the training programme for Private Pilot Licence, Commercial Pilot Licence, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Training.

“The Fuze Aviation Academy, opened in KZN last year, provides opportunities for men and women of rural and urban areas to enter the exciting world of flight,” she said.

Dube-Ncube applauded the Transport Education Training Authority for guiding and supporting the Fuze Aviation Academy during the critical stages of its development path.

The academy has also entered into a partnership with the provincial government through the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.

“We will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the successful roll-out of various programmes in the aviation sector,” she said.

This comes at an opportune time, following the withdrawal of Comair which operated Kulula and British Airways in South Africa.

“While other airlines have responded by adding more flights to their rosters, ticket prices are exorbitant. At the same time, the price of jet fuel has not helped because it has risen globally following the geopolitical tensions in Europe,” she added.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page  and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer