EDITORIAL: A new era in aviation

The curtain has finally fallen on the legal dispute between Paragon Investment Holdings and Menzies Aviation.The result of the protracted fight over the right to provide ground-handling services at the Hosea Kutako International Airport brought to an end the dominance of foreign firms in the aviation industry, and the start of an era that could determine the ability of local firms to match the set standards - or better yet, top them.Menzies has been accused of having developed an entitlement syndrome over the years, especially over its multiple court fights to retain its mandate. Menzies was definitely within its legal realm to challenge the matter in court. There was, however, huge uproar after the company went back to the High Court even after the Supreme Court refused to rule in its favour - a move which was seen by many as an abuse of the judicial system. The judiciary, not Menzies, is to blame in this instance because it is unusual for lower courts to entertain matters stemming from higher courts.Menzies might have gotten relief from the courts - while raking in millions in the meantime - but what’s in it for Paragon? What legal tools are in place to compensate it for the potential revenue lost while fighting in court after legitimately landing a ground-handling contract from the Namibia Airports Company?The judiciary has always been treated like a precious egg, with many opting to keep their opinions to themselves when questionable decisions are made, fearing that their input might be labelled as an attack.

EDITORIAL: A new era in aviation

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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EDITORIAL: A new era in aviation

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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