Safi Airways announces new senior management appointments

Safi Airways, the International Afghanistan airline has appointed Zaidan Khalifat as Director of Quality and Safety and Miguel Serra as Director of Ground Operations & OCC. The strengthening of the senior management team is part of Safi Airways strategic rollout for 2011 and will help handle their expanding network and increased load factor due to the growing demand for the airline in the region.

Since the Management reshuffle late last year following the EU ban on all Afghanistan based airlines, Safi Airways has routinely appointed seasoned professionals from the aviation industry to take on various roles in the senior management team.  “The appointment of these industry experts underscores Safi Airways’ growth strategy and commitment to quality,” said Michael McTighe, COO Safi Airways. “These seasoned professionals bring years of valuable experience with them, which will surely help the airline reach new heights, both regionally and internationally.”

The new Director of Quality, Zaidan Khalifat comes with 35 years of experience in the aviation sector. He will work closely with local and international regulators to ensure the crew and airline meets International quality standards. He will constantly participate in regular audits to guarantee the safety protocols and ensure that the airline continues to operate in compliance with published procedures and requirements of the regulatory authority. Jordanian born Zadian Khalifat has previously held managerial positions in Arik Air and the Royal Jordanian Airlines and currently holds an ICAO and FAA (A&P) Certificate and QA EASA Approvals. He has worked in several countries including USA, UK, Jordan and Lagos.

 Miguel Serra has been in the aviation business for over 22 years. He comes on board the Safi Airways management team with an enviable track record and depth of knowledge in ground operations and OCC. As Director of Ground Operations & OCC of Safi Airways he will be responsible for overall aircraft operations and flight dispatchers including maintenance of all department manuals in keeping with the local Civil Aviation Authorities regulations. He will also be in charge of quality audits, recruitment, training and systems implementation. Miguel Serra has worked in Lagos, Barcelona, USA, Palma de Mallorca and Ireland with Arik Air, Vueling Airlines, Futura International Airways and LTE International Airways.

McTighe added, “Safi Airways has performed very well over the last few months. In the coming months, we anticipate handling increased load factors and serving more network destinations. The appointment of seasoned professionals in senior management positions will positively enhance Safi Airways’ positioning within the region’s aviation industry.”