Simple
An in country rep either retained or on commission, this rep will have proved that his contacts with DGCA/Military/Diplo/ATC/Airport Director etc are valid and useful. This rep will in some circumstances be granted the auth to issue permits, then lodge these with the DGCA etc at the first opportunity.
I have used Hadid and know some of their African reps, some are ex DGCA/ATC/Airline etc.
I agree they are worth their weight in gold.
Another snag is that some operators will not make an application in French to Francophone North/West African countries, thus the DGCA staffers will either delay and/or ignore said application.
Last edited by merlinxx; 31st Oct 2008 at 11:45.
Reason: Missed an R there