New CEO on board for Afghan airline debut

Captain Azimi will be at the helm of the 100% Afghan-owned operation, which aims to connect all major transit points throughout Afghanistan, with international trade partners to bring widespread commercial benefits to businesses and individuals across the re-emerging country.

A former astronaut candidate and Deputy Minister of the country’s Ministry of Transport & Civil Aviation, Captain Azimi also has 20,000 flying hours and 30 years’ experience in the military and commercial aviation sector, including high profile positions as the President of Ariana Afghan Airlines and domestic carrier Kam Air.

Commenting on his new role, Captain Azimi said: “East Horizon Airlines is ready to play its part in Afghanistan’s ambitious reconstruction program and will be linking major transit points with the remotest corners of Afghanistan. Through our hub in Kabul, we can then connect these destinations with regional and international airlines.”

The new airline is already staffed by a team of internationally-trained pilots and ground crew comprising Afghan nationals and a team of international specialists.

“The diverse backgrounds of our multi-national team will allow us to deliver an unprecedented level of aviation services and expertise throughout Afghanistan. As the first passenger and cargo airline certified under the new internationally-compliant Afghanistan aviation standards, we aim to become the country’s preferred and reliable airline operator,” he added.

During phase one of its roll-out plan, East Horizon is currently awaiting the imminent arrival of three new aircraft and aim to start operations by October of 2011, with an expansion plan for the upcoming year 2012.