Accra, Nov. 26, GNA - Despite the high oil prices,
Lufthansa, the German International Airlines, says
its operating profits in the first nine months of
the year has gone up by 46.7 per cent to 691 million
Euros.
Mr Silvio Uhlfelder, General Manager Lufthansa, told
journalists in Accra that while all the group's
business segments had a hand in the company's
success, the passenger business made a substantial
contribution towards the improved results.
"Based on current trends in the present business
environment, the Executive Board has raised its
forecast and is now expecting a full year operating
profit of around 750 million Euros," he said.
Mr Uhlfelder was speaking at reception for the media
to enable them to see and taste the food that is
provided to passengers on board the airline in the
three classes by First Catering Limited, its
catering services provider.
First Catering Limited is a free zone company
established some seven years ago and operates in the
airline catering industry.
Mr Uhlfelder said the growth strategy had reflected
in recent orders for 35 new aircrafts.
He said the company's cost savings programme was on
track and would improve results by 1.2 billion euros
by the end of the year.
"These savings will be reinvested in profitable
growth in new products and also in perspectives for
the staff."
Lufthansa hopes to employ 2,500 new staff in 2006.
Briefing the journalist on the preparation of the
dishes for the various classes, Mr John Ansah,
Assistant Quality Assurance Manager, said rigorous
processes were followed to prevent microbiogical
growth.
He said meals were presented cold to prevent
microbiological growth.
Mr Ansah said about 70 per cent of supplies for the
meals were imported, explaining that most local
suppliers were unable to meet requirements because
of the high standards required.
Mrs Maud Lindsay-Gamrat, Head of Finance and
Administration said although a young company, First
Catering had employed the best professionals in the
industry and currently has a staff level of 170,
made up of both expatriates and Ghanaians.
The company serves seven major airlines, including
Lufthansa, Emirates, KLM, South African Airlines and
soon to be added Delta, which begins operation on
December 12 this year.
GNA
