Angola-based Bestfly has renewed its IS-BAO status for the second year in a row, following a month-long audit of its staff, facilities and operational standards by Cyrrus Cayman International Services. Bestfly was the first African company to receive the certification in May 2015.

“We are very proud to have achieved this important recognition again as we continually work hard to meet international expectations,” says MD Nuno Pereira. “The timing was perfect as we were able to come to EBACE and demonstrate that the services we provide are as good as any international business aviation company, despite the challenges of operating in Africa.

“It has been a challenging couple of years for business aviation with fluctuating oil prices affecting business. However we have seen this as a time to improve our standards across the board, as well as keep training our staff and improving what we can do for our inter- national clients.”

Since first achieving the IS-BAO standard, the company has invested in a dedicated fuel bowser and has worked in conjunction with fuel provider Sonangol to improve turnaround times. Bestfly has also fixed a three-year ground handling and flight support service agreement with Chevron.

In response to the growing demand for professionally-trained pilots in Africa, it has invested in training by appointing FlightSafety International as the dedicated training organisation for all of its needs.

Bestfly's fleet now includes Gulfstream G550, G450, and III types, two Falcon 900s, a Challenger 605, three Learjet 45s, a Dornier 328, four King Airs and a Twin Otter. Pereira, now vice chair of AfBAA, is expecting to add a Gulfstream G450 and G650ER by the end of 2017.