■ BRAZIL: Embraer looks to double its presence in Africa over next 20 years though this depends on the Yamassoukoro Decision being implemented.

Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, Embraer, is looking to double the number of its aircraft flying in Africa over the next 20 years, though this will largely depend on the  full implementation of  the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999, whose objectives include the full-liberalization of the intra-African air transport market, free exercise of  first, second, third, fourth and fifth freedom rights for passenger and freight air services  by eligible airlines and ensuring fair competition on a  non-discriminatory basis while complying with international safety standards. Despite having been given a deadline of 2002 for implementation, the Decision still remains fanciful at best.

● GABON: Air CEMAC names Etienne Robin Mintsa Mi Owono as boss, as January launch date seems increasingly unlikely.

Gabon's Etienne Robin Mintsa Mi Owono, the Deputy Director General of Gabon's Civil Aviation Department, has been named as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Air CEMAC whilst a Central African, Alfred Bouba Dalambaye, has been named Director General of the carrier.