The US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a $2.5 million initial award to SkyLink Air and Logistic Support (USA), Incorporated to provide technical expertise to assess and manage three commercial airports in Iraq, in order to facilitate humanitarian operations and restore normal transportation services to Iraq.
The re-opening and effective management of the airports is considered a critical link in the US government's humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to the people of Iraq, according to a USAID press release.
SkyLink will assess and manage the airports to insure that people, technical assistance, supplies, food and materials for reconstruction enter the country smoothly. Three international airports—in Baghdad, Basra and Mosul—are covered under the terms of the contract.
SkyLink will provide international staff with management expertise to assess and operate the airports, vehicles and equipment. SkyLink will also develop plans to ensure smooth airfreight and passenger service and prioritize improvements necessary to insure that the airports operate in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization standards.
As the contract progresses, SkyLink will work with Iraqi staff in preparation for turning over management. The airport administration and management contract is one of eight initial procurement actions issued by USAID as part of its overall relief and reconstruction efforts in Iraq. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
