National Aviation Services (NAS), the fastest growing aviation services provider in emerging markets, has announced a joint venture agreement (JV) with LAM - Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique, the Mozambique flag carrier, to provide management services of the Flamingo lounges in Mozambique.

The NAS - LAM JV will design, re-build and operate a total of six airport lounges in Maputo, Nampula, Tete, Pemba and Beira under the Flamingo Lounges brand. New lounges will also be added at other airports in the country in the near future.

João Carlos Pó Jorge, LAM’s General Manager said:. By joining hands with such a professional and highly qualified partner, we will be offering more comprehensive, inclusive and diversified services with the ‘Mozambicanity” that we intend to offer all airline passengers preparing to board in our company or another of their choice, with wishes to benefit from this service.”

The first phase of implementation of the agreement includes domestic and international lounges at the Maputo International Airport. The Flamingo Lounges in Maputo will offer a comfortable and convenient space for passengers to relax or work before or after a flight with a variety of hot and cold menu options, accompanied by a variety of beverages, Wi-Fi internet connectivity and different entertainment and information options. These lounges will be the only places that offer a dedicated smoking area in Maputo.

Serving LAM passengers who are members of the Flamingo Club, the lounges also welcome LAM business class passengers as well as passengers flying other airlines.

NAS has an established presence in Mozambique, through a partnership with First National Bank (FNB) to operate the FNB Lounge by Pearl Assist at the Maputo International Airport. From July 2019, NAS will also offer comprehensive ground handling and cargo services in Mozambique. This is part of NAS’s commitment to investing $50 million in Africa over the next three years. Mozambique is the first African country to benefit from this investment.

Hassan El-Houry, Group CEO, NAS, said: “Our partnership with Mozambique’s national carrier, LAM outlines NAS’s commitment to developing airport and aviation services in the country. With the FNB Lounge by Pearl Assist, we set a precedent of introducing world class facilities to international travelers at the Maputo International Airport. Through the joint venture with LAM, we expand the reach of our expertise in lounge management, our resources and our talented service teams to further support development led by increased foreign investments into the country.”

Globally, NAS has a presence in more than 40 airports and manages ground handling for seven out of the world’s top 10 airlines across the Middle East, India, and Africa.