Richard Maslen has travelled across the globe to report on developments in the aviation sector as airlines and airports have continued to evolve and adapt to changing market conditions. Initially managing the weekly newsletter for respected aviation insurance loss adjuster Airclaims Limited, he later joined aviation media company Key Publishing where he spent almost nine years interviewing many of the industry’s senior players producing content for renowned titles such as Airliner World and Airports of the World. In 2011, he joined air service development specialist Routes (latterly part of UBM) where he developed a complete digital editorial content strategy for the business and has become well respected by the aviation community for his knowledge and insight. In April 2017, he left to establish his own business, Maslen Aviation Consultancy, providing storytelling content production, delivery and promotion support as well as consultancy services on aviation topics. He has already started working independently for a number of clients providing online content, event coverage, conference speaking, media appearances, advice on marketing and live event experience as well as project management on an exciting new content platform.
This latest expansion will further strengthen the carrier’s position as the airline with the greatest international connectivity from Guadalajara, where it now operates 20 international and 18 domestic flights. Since it introduced flights it has transported more than 16 million passengers from the city.
The construction of an international airport is a major development for the island. Long rumoured and discussed, the British Government finally announced its plan to construct the facility in March 2005 for completion in 2010. However, the financial crisis and delays with consultations meant that it was not until November 2011 that an agreement was reached with a South African contractor to build the international lifeline.
The award of the Air Service Permit (ASP) from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development of the Government of Zimbabwe, which is responsible for administering the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), is a significant step towards the Company obtaining an Air Operating Certificate (AOC) and its plans to grow its footprint in Sub- Saharan Africa.
