All You Wanted To Know about Luke Butler

[evolante]

I may be behind a bit but saw this post in Global Business Jet News - I thought the aircraft was impounded in Jakarata for non payment of maintenance.........


AUSTRALIANS USE 747 TO EXPLOIT UNTAPPED VIP MARKET

Australia's Global Air Group has begun vip operations in its Boeing 747.
The aircraft has a piano bar in the nose, several stand-up tables and a
smoking lounge.

Founder Luke Butler said: "The greatest interest we have is for conferences
and conventions, where corporations want to take between 100 and 120 of
their employees to a number of locations.

"I think the demand in Australia for this type of aircraft is currently
untapped."

[dingo084]

More Press for Mr Butler from the ABC website at

http://www.abc.net.au/news/australia/qld/metqld-17jul2003-26.htm


**QUOTE
Posted: Thur, 17 Jul 2003 15:42 AEST

Charter company ordered to pay Japan $US6 million
A Gold Coast air charter company has been ordered to pay the Japanese Government $US6 million for failing to provide an aircraft to fly terrorists back to Japan.

Coolangatta-based Global Air Leasing was contracted by the Japanese Government to provide a Boeing 747 for a secret flight to retrieve Red Army terrorists accused of slaughtering 26 people in Israel in 1972 from Jordan in the Middle East.

The plane was first to fly to Japan but did not arrive in time.

Queensland Supreme Court Justice John Muir ordered Global Air to refund the security deposit of $US6 million originally sought by the company from the Japanese Government.

He has also ordered Global Air to pay interest.

He will accept further submissions until July 21 regarding the possible refund of a further $US1.2 million in lease fees.
UNQUOTE**

ding

[crocodile redundee]

As well as a smoking lounge the VIP's will end up with smoking wallets as the 747SP is indeed somewhat 'laid up' at present ie engines missing, & still no Aussie airworthiness certificate......

[Wizard]

I have been mentioned in the media yesterday in the Fin. Review and with a photo of me and a "colourful" story in Friday's Australian. I thought you might be interested to see what the ABC radio's PM report has covered re the Government of Japan Court case against one of our companies Global Air Leasing.

It is not complete or completely accurate as the ABC like almost all Austrlian media outlets reporting this story leave out the part of the court ruling that was in our favour and against the Government of Japan which was more accurately covered in the Japan Times article shown below. It is curious to me why our media universally missed the point and in their haste (and I suspect don't really care attitude) all reported in varying degrees that the effect of the judgement is a finding that we did not perform the charter flight or it was somehow a "failed charter flight".

The judge actually dismissed the Japanese claim against us for this exact point and found that we did indeed perform the flight and were entitled to keep the charter fee. He then went on to find that we had to, however, repay the funds advanced for the the cost of the aircraft. A reasonable if for us somewhat disappointing finding.

The common sense issue with the Japanese was to try to get them around a table 2 years ago and say to them "your ambit claim that we did not do the flight is untrue and always will be found to be such, the aircraft value has decreased markedly since 9-11 so what can we agree upon?" They were also offered the aircraft as a "without prejudice" settlement but did not want it or in fact did not really appear concerned about getting an achievable settlement prefering to have it seems a "face" judgement. So now they have what may well be a "hollow" judgement that we shall of course appeal - the game continues and the media - well they do what they always do ...

Anyway for audio of the ABC radio PM report please see this link:-

http://www.abc.net.au/pm/content/2003/s904683.htm

Transcript:

Supreme Court orders Global Air to pay Japanese Government 10 million

PM - Thursday, 17 July_, 2003_ 18:42:00

Reporter: Annie Guest

MARK COLVIN: A court case that ended in Queensland today has some of the hallmarks of a thriller. The Supreme Court in Brisbane today ordered a Gold Coast company to pay the Japanese Government almost $10 million. The money is compensation for a clandestine deal to transport terrorists, even though the deal failed.
The Japanese Red Army is a long-standing terrorist group with strong Palestinian links. Its aims include overthrowing the Japanese Government and monarchy, and fomenting world revolution.
The court was told that, three years ago, Global Air Leasing agreed with the Japanese Government to bring Red Army terrorists back from the Middle East to Japan for trial.
Annie Guest reports.
ANNIE GUEST: The Japanese Red Army terrorists were accused of slaughtering 26 people and injuring 78 in Israel in 1972. And Coolangatta-based Global Air Leasing says the Japanese Government wanted to bring them to justice.
Global Air's founder and former director, Luke Butler says it was his company's first foray into hunting and snatching terrorists and he sought advice from ASIO who confirmed the mission as originally proposed was legal.

LUKE BUTLER: Regarding doing a clandestine flight for a Government, it's extremely unusual for an Australian company or indeed any company in the world.
ANNIE GUEST: Global Air was to provide a Boeing 747 to fly to Japan and then onto Jordan, but the court today found the plane did not arrive in time. Luke Butler disputes the finding and has vowed to appeal.
(To Luke Butler) And while your company's role in the mission wasn't as originally intended, if it had picked up the terrorists, how would that have been carried out?
LUKE BUTLER: Yes, the intention at the outset was that we would pick up the plane from America, which we did, that we would fly to Okinawa, and we departed en route to Okinawa in Japan, and in Okinawa had to pick up 50 heavily armed Japanese police, refuel the plane, which would take about an hour and then immediately fly directly non-stop to Jordan, to Oman in Jordan.
We were there to land, have the terrorists marched onboard by the armed police. We were told that the terrorists would be handcuffed, that they would have foot manacles around their feet, that they would be hooded and that they would be sedated with injections.
ANNIE GUEST: And were you at all concerned about the ethics or morality of entering into such an agreement?
LUKE BUTLER: At the time we entered into it, we absolutely were onboard to go grab these terrorists. We thought terrorists, and still do, are a bad thing.
ANNIE GUEST: The Japanese Government claimed Charter Air didn't hold-up their end of the deal and leased an aircraft from Russian-based Aeroflot to complete the snatch. But Charter Air claims it was ordered mid-mission to act as a decoy aircraft and has begun preparation to challenge the court ruling.
LUKE BUTLER: I think you should understand that the Government of Japan should not be expecting a check for US$6 million from Global Air Leasing any time soon.
ANNIE GUEST: Luke Butler, the founder and former chairman of Global Air Leasing.

Griffith University's lecturer in Japan Studies, Jeff Graham says the Red Army was a feared organisation in the 1970s.
JEFF GRAHAM: They were a fairly small group of Japanese terrorists, essentially, that were active at least up until the early 1970s, responsible for a number of bombings, essentially in the Middle East, and very much went into hiding since that time.
ANNIE GUEST: And what do we know about what they've been doing in the meantime, in the intervening 30 years?
JEFF GRAHAM: As far as I know they were in hiding or at least taking advantage of the Middle East in terms of hiding out somewhere in that region. It's only been recently that these people who are now getting on in age have been brought to custody.
They haven't really been doing much in the intervening period, but still the Japanese Government were keen to bring them to justice because of the damage that they did cause during the 1970s.
MARK COLVIN: Jeff Graham, from Griffith University, ending Annie Guest's report.


http://www.japantimes.com/cgi-bin/getarticle.pl5?nn20030718a4.htm

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Japan wins $6 million in airline suit

SYDNEY (Kyodo) The Brisbane Supreme Court on Thursday ordered Australian charter airline Global Air Leasing to repay the Japanese government $6 million for failing to supply a jumbo jet in time to secretly take Japanese Red Army fugitives from Jordan to Japan in 2000.

In the lawsuit, the Japanese government sought reimbursement of $7.2 million -- a $1.2 million charter fee and a $6 million security deposit -- it paid to the Brisbane-based airline to hire a 20-year-old Boeing 747.

Justice John Muir ruled that the Japanese government was entitled to be repaid the $6 million security deposit.

However, he rejected Japan's demand that the airline reimburse the $1.2 million charter fee, saying GAL had fulfilled its obligation under the contract by flying the aircraft to the United States in preparation for the flight to Narita airport.

The mission was to pick up four members of the Japanese Red Army accused of being involved in an attack on Tel Aviv's Lod Airport (now Ben Gurion Airport) in 1972 that left 26 people dead and more than 70 wounded. Japan's National Police Agency and the Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office chartered the plane.

The GAL plane was late arriving at Narita after suffering maintenance problems. Its takeoff from California was delayed because it was initially denied clearance.

As a result, the Japanese police and prosecutors were forced to charter another aircraft from a Russian company to fly to the Middle East.

"We intend to appeal," GAL founder Luke Butler told Kyodo News.

"We are very relieved the judge has recognized that the government of Japan wrongly claimed we did not do the flight or that it was a failed charter flight," Butler said. The company intends to appeal the ruling to the Court of Appeal.

The court did not uphold GAL's defense that it was not liable because the secret mission was illegal.

GAL had maintained that the intention of the flight was to force the suspects onto the plane, which "amounted to deprivation of liberty on the part of the Japanese government," GAL's lawyer Peter Hackett told the court during the trial, which ended last month.

The Japan Times: July 18, 2003

And Croc..... all engines are hung and working, we recently did a containment ring mod. on one which had it off the wing for a while. And as the aircraft has not been registered in Australia for about 2 years (when it was VH-OZX with a valid C. of A. since September 2000) it does not operate under CASA control or anymore need a CASA C. of A. as it has its reg and C. of A. validly issued "offshore". For the record the aircraft recently completed up to date CPCP work, 8.33 KHz radio spacing mod., fuel tank AD's, cable guard AD and a fresh A4 check.

posted by Luke Butler
www.globalairgroup.com

[Capt Claret]

Julia Christensen, ABC Radio Darwin's drive announcer, has just done a story on Luke having read something about him in the media recently, which triggered memories of his nefarious activities in Darwin dating back to 1989! :eek:

It seems leopards don't change their spots!

[Flight Detent]

So, what is the real story regarding the SP getting some work done to it in Jakarta:
1/ Is all the work completed (rewiring works & work one at least one engine)
2/ Is it impounded, with money outstanding in payment?

3/ Has it's interior been reworked (as above), or is all that just wishfull thinking - or is it still full pax configered?

4/ Or, is it out making money!!

Can anyone say, with any authority, what's actually going on!!

Cheers

[Aviator in the know]

I saw it recently at GMF. Its not moved for about 2 years. Dream on Luke .

[B772]

The Global B747SP is being advertised for sale or lease and guess what, Global are advertising to buy or lease in a B747F preferably a 400F.

A Max Mead is the contact person.

[rsull]

:confused: Luke's 747 sp is ment to be flying around south america at the moment on a charter? can anyone confirm this is not the case.

[Wirraway]

Thurs "The Australian"

Former bankrupt acquires Bentley
By Chris Griffith and Leah Moore
October 02, 2003

A CONTROVERSIAL Brisbane businessman whose latest bankruptcy ended just two weeks ago has celebrated by acquiring a brand-new $500,000 Bentley Arnage.

Luke Norman Butler, the one-time head of fledgling airlines Global Air Australia and Oz Airlines, has been spotted in Brisbane proudly driving the new car.

But when approached he cited privacy and confidentiality for not revealing how the prestige car, fitted with NSW number plates, was financed.

Just three months ago, a Brisbane court ordered Mr Butler's firm to repay the Japanese Government $US6 million over a bungled contract he had entered to fly members of the Japanese Red Army from the Middle East to Tokyo. The terrorists were accused of massacring 26 people at Tel Aviv airport, Israel, in 1972.

Instead of explaining the financial dealings behind the Bentley, Mr Butler through his lawyer invited The Courier-Mail "for a brief test drive by one of your regular senior motoring writers".

"We are instructed to advise you that the contract to purchase the motor vehicle in question was entered into subsequent to the annulment of Mr Butler's bankruptcy," was his response through solicitor Chris Conley.

But the humour in the offer to test drive the prestigious Arnage – which can travel from 0 to 100km in 6.2 seconds – was lost on Melbourne-based Spirit Airlines, which claims it is yet to get a cent from Mr Butler despite its success in bankrupting him in February last year.

Spirit Airlines director Bill Collyer yesterday said his company, which took bankruptcy action after suing Mr Butler for $200,000 and incurring $60,000 court costs, was unaware that he had bought the prestige car.

Mr Collyer said Spirit Airlines had been "out-manoeuvred" by so-called "friendly creditors" who last month had voted to annul Mr Butler's bankruptcy.

A bankruptcy can be angled when agreed to by 50 per cent of creditors representing 75 per cent of debts.

Melbourne-based trustee Paul Pattison annulled the bankruptcy on September 17 and it is claimed Mr Butler flew to Sydney within days to take delivery of the Bentley.

Bentley's Sydney dealership – while refusing to confirm it dealt with Mr Butler – yesterday said designer Bentleys generally were ordered six months in advance, and were hand-made to customer specifications in Crewe, England.

In his statement of affairs, Mr Butler declared he owed $2.851 million in debts and guarantees to unsecured creditors. Esanda Finance was owed $20,000 and it is understood the Commonwealth Bank some $960,000.

Mr Conley said some $325,000 was paid to Mr Pattison for distribution. Mr Collyer last night expressed concern that some of Mr Butler's debts may have been overestimated, a situation which would have helped the annulment to occur.

But the idea was flatly rejected by both Mr Conley and Mr Pattison, who said he had demanded all creditors prove what they were owed.

Strangely, it appears Spirit Airlines itself voted for the annulment, a situation Mr Collyer can only explain by saying Spirit had agreed to it knowing it was a fait accompli.

It was revealed yesterday that Mr Butler rented a property in Killara Ave, Hamilton, for about two years, moving out in January last year.

Mr Cavallaro said Mr Butler paid the rent up-front for the first year with a cash payment of about $30,000.

==========================================

[Metro man]

Have a look at http://www.climbto350.com/job_search.cfm?jobID=9105 .He's advertising for pilots again .His website is worth a look to.

[Torres]

I like your taste, Luke. Nice set of wheels! :ok:

http://www.couriermail.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,290490,00.jpg

Luke's "rags to riches in a day" story! (http://www.couriermail.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5936,7433398%255E3102,00.html)

[lambsie]

Bankruptcy laws in Australia are soooo generous. Mr Butler has recently purchased 75 acres on the glorious Sunshine Coast near Montville for $1.48 million. :hmm:

[Torres]

From his $6 mill bequest from the Japanese government? :}

[Seaman Staines]

Unfknbelievable:mad:

So, did this c*nt ever pay the Japs?

[Torres]

Blackie. Is the Pope Jewish? :}

[Towerman]

I wonder where the money is coming from....

Australian charter carrier Global Air Group has signed a letter of intent to purchase up to 100 American Utilicraft (AUC) FF-1080 turboprop freighter aircraft.

The deal, which includes a firm order for 50 FF-1080s and 50 options, is valued at approximately $1.2 billion, including a support, spares and training package, says AUC.

AUC says it is preparing to begin construction of its prototype FF-1080 in the coming months, and is eyeing a completion date for fall 2005. The company has been trying to get its FF-1080 freighter concept off the ground for years.

Global Air, which operates a single Boeing 747 freighter, is AUC’s second potential customer. Hong Kong firm WSI in March ordered 300 FF-1080s, including the initial 36 off the production line.

Global Air and AUC expect to finalize an aircraft purchase agreement within the next 60-90 days, and say they are “jointly exploring the various international financing options with a view to the selection of lead managers for the funding of this fleet-purchase package”.

The companies say they are also negotiating a distributorship agreement that will give Global Air exclusive distributorship rights for sales and support in the Europe and Africa markets.

[gaunty]

Deja- vu :rolleyes:

[Woomera]

http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/ff/images/4_plane.jpg

[Beer Can Dreaming]

I wonder whether the manufacturer can look long enough through their rose coloured glasses to see this may all end in tears.
Interesting to see if he comes up with enough for a deposit and I wonder who will be the chumps providing them with finance !!

[Woomera]

Notice any similarities?

http://www2s.biglobe.ne.jp/~ito-nori/prop/jpeg/prop53.jpg

[splatgothebugs]

I think this machine is already in production:confused:

Its called a Shorts :D :D :D :D

Looks worse than the flying shed actually:ok:

splat

[Time Bomb Ted]

That's one UGLY aeroplane for sure.

[Romeo Tango Alpha]

Woomera - you hit the nail on the head - it looks like a Gonad on steroids!

Seems the old aviation axiom will prove itself yet again - if it looks right, it'll fly right. If it looks wrong, it'll fly wrong.

This one just looks WRONG! As did the Nomad...

I seem to recall the first test pilot on the Nomad, T.K, got out of the thing and proclaimed it was "Dangerous, just plain dangerous!" Profound words.

[Tail_Wheel]

I haven’t worked out Flukey’s angle yet, but Aviation International News (http://www.equitekcapital.com/Investorinfo/Webpagecontent/eclipse_articles/eclipseintheworks.pdf) refers to the American Ultilicraft FF-1080-200 and quotes:

Probability of successful first flight: 50% or less
Probability of Certification & Production: Less than 25% chance of success
Long Term Prospects: Less than 25% chance of success

Looking at the aircraft specifications (http://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/ff/specs.html) I can’t quite see where an un pressurised dedicated freighter - at est $12 mill each according to Towerman's post - at 17,237 kg MTOW, 6,619 kg payload, significant ZFW penalty and claimed 250 kts cruise will fit into the airfreight feeder market.

I would have thought if an operator needs a Cessna Caravan/Cargomaster on steroids, there would be any number of used, low cost proven airframes (e.g. DHC-8-100?) in the market?

The manufacturer's web site (http://www.utilicraft.com/dod/slide001.htm) is very scant of information.

Maybe a suitable DHC4 Caribou/DHC5 Buffalo replacement?

P.S. G'Day Staines. I thought this thread would bring you back out of the woodwork, Phat Phong bar ... or where ever you've been hiding! :} Where did you find their email address - can't see it anywhere on their web site.

[Seaman Staines]

Has anybody 'dropped a dime' about Flukey to this mob yet?

I just did LOL:E

This looks like a repeat of his announcement with the IDI freighter a couple of years ago,
and when contacted, IDI knew nothing about it except to say they remembered a bull****ter with a strong nasal accent, on their stand at the Paris airshow that they couldn't get rid of.

Whatever happened to due diligence?

http://www.utilicraft.com/index2.htm

G\'day C.
you are correct. I went thru "whois".
it\'s
[email protected]

Sorry , haven\'t been down to KSR yet. am checking out new border crossings for my new smuggling op.:8
These bloody landmines are a bit of a nuisance, i'm still on crutches.... you know the type, long black hair, almond eyes, brown allover etc.:}

[Tail_Wheel]

"...am checking out new border crossings for my new smuggling op."

Sounds like a Rowan Atkinson comedy. :} :}

Forget the border crossings - lease an FF-1080 from Flukie and fly the stuff across!

Very strange the Utilicraft FF-1080 web site doesn't have an email contact?

And I wonder what happened to the -100 model? :confused:

[SeldomFixit]

Wouldn't it be a hoot if "Flukey" got conned by someone !! :p

[Capt Snooze]

From http://www.utilicraft.com/ a wannabe aircraft manufacturer

'WINDOW ROCK, Ariz _– December 13, 2004 (Business Wire) Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley, Jr., announced Sunday the Navajo Nation’s intention to partner with Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc., to produce a newly-designed, specialized feeder freight aircraft called the FF-1080-300.

The arrangement calls for establishing three aircraft sub-assembly plants on the Navajo Nation that will create hundreds of high-paying Navajo jobs and provide millions of dollars to the Navajo economy.

Utilicraft Aerospace has already agreed to establish its final assembly facility at the Double Eagle II Airport in Albuquerque, N.M.

On Dec. 8, 2004, while in Lawrenceville, Ga., President Shirley and Utilicraft Aerospace CEO John J. Dupont signed a memorandum of understanding that would have the Navajo Nation invest $34 million in the project to become a 25 percent equity partner in Utilicraft Aerospace. Financial analysis of the company project it to become a $4.9 billion company within eight years.

“I feel very good, very confident about this,” President Shirley said. “This is an awesome opportunity and industry to bring to the Navajo Nation.”

Utilicraft Aerospace has an agreement with Global Air Group of Brisbane, Australia, for the purchase of 100 FF-1080 Freight Feeder aircraft for $1.2 billion.. The company also has an agreement with WSI Hong Kong, Ltd., for 300 FF-1080 aircraft.

“We’re looking at about 1,000 jobs in the state of New Mexico to build the airplane and to do final assembly in Albuquerque at a production rate of 96 a year,” Mr. Dupont said. “This represents jobs, economic development and a great business opportunity for the Navajo Nation.”

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson has been personally involved for the last year in recruiting the aviation company to New Mexico.

"I am gratified to see our efforts are paying off with these significant announcements in both Albuquerque and the Navajo Nation," Governor Richardson said. "This project represents our commitment to bring jobs and economic vitality to all parts of New Mexico, especially our rural and Native American communities.

He continued, “I applaud President Shirley's commitment to economic development, and we are proud to be part of this unique partnership between the Navajo Nation, the State of New Mexico, the City of Albuquerque and the private sector."

Jerry Sandoval, a representative of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, accompanied President Shirley and Navajo Division of Economic Development Director Allan Begay to Georgia last week to convey the governor’s commitment regarding the state’s incentives that would be available for the project. These include job training funds and other tax credits tied to new job creation.

Utilicraft Aerospace Industries’ primary mission is to address the problem of the overnight express, supply chain, e-commerce, and global third party logistics entities’ inability to provide effective containerized fulfillment and distribution in the short haul (or feeder) route segments of air cargo.

The company’s solution is a new, un-pressurized, square-bodied aircraft capable of carrying standard industry air containers on short-to-medium range routes. Improving the operating economics of the FF-1080 is its patented integrated air cargo information system and patented power-management system.

The FF-1080 aircraft is an all-aluminum, twin-engine, high-wing, fixed-landing gear, single pilot-capable turboprop aircraft specifically designed as a utility air freight transport system. The FF-1080 satisfies an industry-recognized need to cost-effectively feed containerized air cargo to the major hubs of the scheduled passenger carriers and the overnight express airlines.

The aircraft is also designed for short take-off and landing (STOL) capability. This feature makes the FF-1080 the only short-haul, heavy-lift containerized feeder aircraft capable of cost-effectively transporting 10 revenue tons over 1,000 miles from airfields with 3,000 feet of runway, expanding air cargo capacity to many smaller cities and airports worldwide.

The plane has a gross weight of 70,000 lbs. and can transport 20,000 lbs. up to 1,000 nautical miles.

Utilicraft Aerospace Industries business plan contemplates a two-year final development program, leading to FAA certification and initial production of the FF-1080, with a total cost of $75 million. The plane has been in development for 13 years.'


......... for those who follow his adventures (includes pictures on another page of the website)

[Beer Can Dreaming]

Is it just me or does the photo of this thing give me nightmares of the GAF Nomad????

[Uncommon Sense]

I always thought Bill Richardson was an intelligent guy.

I do hope his staff do a little research on the previous adventures of the Wizard.

[crocodile redundee]

Well I'll be!!!! I was wondering where old Flukey Lukey would bob up next!!!! This venture sounds a real goer ,,,,,,, NOT!!!!!!!!
I suppose Mr Butler will use his fleet of No Go Nomad clone aircraft to transport his flurry of corporate lawyers around the nation in order to keep him safe from harm!!!!!! I am amazed how gullible some people are!!!!!! Go Flukey........

[rescue 1]

From the Global Air Group website:

"Global Air Operations Pty Ltd operates an International Charter Operation, and any other operations as approved by its Air Operators Certificate (AOC).

Global Air currently is applying for a foreign aircraft AOC (currently with CASA) and is in the process of applying for an Australian AOC. "

So do they have an AOC or not???

[crocodile redundee]

MATE- They are about as close to getting an AOC as Mr Latham is to becoming P.M. !!!!!!!
They were on the path toward an AOC several years ago when they imported a 747SP, & tried to get it certified on the Aus register which also collapsed in a heap of debts & last I heard the SP was mothballed in K.L. against the fence minus all 4 engines!!!!!

[jmc-man]

Some of you may have missed THIS (http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=161854) thread running in Airlines Forum.

I'd appreciate any update on LB's activities over the past few months. I am trying to help some friends recover some cash they were cheated out of some time ago by this "gent", and at least now we know where's he living.

[Sunfish]

Is this him?

http://www.utilicraft.com/index2.htm

[Woomera]

For the benefit of the new kids in the class, read The Amazing Adventures of the Wizard here (http://www.pprune.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2298&highlight=luke+butler).

This chronology is by no means complete......... merely a few highlights of an amazing life.

Woomera

[Kaptin M]

http://www.utilicraft.com/images/GlobalAirFF1080_captioned.jpg
Which of these two is "Flukey"?

[OH410E]

Always remember the old joke if youre ever contemplating doing business in Qweensland...

Q:Why do qweenslanders whistle while theyre sitting on the dunny?

A: So they remember which end to wipe.

[aussie come home]

The person on the left is the Wizard of Oz. Surprising likeness to Chris Skase!
What has happened to the poor guys at Eagle Farm employed by Global allegedly working on an AOC?
The office is on the VB sim side of the airport and the airport is the landlord.
JMC-man did you get my note?
I like your friend is chasing money from him and I even have a High Court judgement.
Babcock and Brown have been contacted to see their involvement. can't believe after the outstanding market float they could be taken in by him. The indian tribe who will finance the Utilicraft what more can I say.

[Tail_Wheel]

Press Release re Babcock & Brown here (http://www.utilicraft.com/press/press2005-02-05.htm).

'Cause you never got a cent - don't think anyone has ever beaten The Wizard! Don't think Wazza or the Japanese Government got their brass back either, despite the action taken in Australia.

"Where is the 747SP that he paid too much for?" I don't think he paid for anything. I think you may find it was paid for by one of his "investors", possibly in Hong Kong. Think it is grounded in Indonesia.

It is true to say "There's one born every minute..." and "A fool and his money are always parted". Rest assured, when the next rich fool is born, The Wizard will find him.........

Indeed, one could reasonably assume The Wizard has native Americans fairly in his sights..........

[aussie come home]

It is worth listing the babcock and Brown announcement as it shows the power of pprune to flush the wizard out yet again. After this one he could pop up in a town near you! What sort of mug is this guy from Utilicraft-is he in the same scam or just a dreamer!!!

Update and Clarification of Utilicraft - Babcock Brown Announcement




Business Wire: Saturday - February 5, 2005 – Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc. - (Lawrenceville, Georgia) - As a clarification of the Babcock and Brown announcement made last week by Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc., Babcock & Brown has confirmed with Utilicraft that it had not signed an engagement letter with Global Air Group or Afra Airlines at that time, and has not to date.

After further discussions with Babcock and Brown on Friday of last week, Utilicraft understands from Babcock and Brown that Global/Afra will not be utilizing their firm.

As a result of discussions last week with Global Air Group/Afra Airlines, Utilicraft anticipates that Global/Afra will be making final decisions and announcements regarding their finance program in the very near future. Global/Afra stated that they are enthusiastic and excited about moving forward on the program to develop the African feeder cargo market.

About Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc.

Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc. was formed to target the significant problem of addressing the overnight express, supply chain, e-commerce, and global third party logistics entities inability to provide effective “containerized” fulfillment and distribution in the short haul (or feeder) route segments of air cargo. The result of the Company’s research and development is a new air vehicle, the FF-1080 Freight Feeder aircraft, capable of carrying standard industry air containers on short-to-medium range/medium density routes, and an integrated air cargo information system for the freight feeder market.

For more information visit the Company’s website at www.utilicraft.com .

Contact:
Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc.
John J. Dupont – President, CEO
(678) 376-0898
Fax: 679-376-9093

About Afra Airlines

Afra Airlines operates from premises at the Airport Residential Estate area of Accra where it currently employs 32 sales and administrative staff in its modern fully equipped offices. Flight operations are being handled with the assistance and technical support of Global Air Group which was recently reported as having purchased 100 of the new Utilicraft feeder freighters valued at $1.2Billion USD for deliveries commencing in 2007. Global Air Group, which is owned by Mr. Butler and his Ghanaian wife Simone Butler, owns and operates Boeing 747 passenger and freighter aircraft. Mr. & Mrs. Butler have moved to Accra to operationalize Afra Airlines, Afra Resorts & Holdings and Afra Air Cargo.

Contact:
Afra Airlines Ltd.
Luke Butler – Executive Chairman, CEO
7 Nortei Ababio Street
Airport Residential Area
Accra, Ghana.

Tel +233 244 932 488, +233 21 763396, +61 4 2383 0909
Email: [email protected]

[aussie come home]

After following up with Babcock and Brown to ensure that they weren't in play the following e-mail came from a senior source:

"Thanks for this and the other email. While I appreciate the heads up, we have no agreement to work with Global/Afra, nor do we expect one. A new press release clarifiying that that went out on Sat or Sun. "

So they are out of play for the US$1b so who next to be slaughtered by the Wizard.

[Sunfish]

Rats! I thought this might have drawn him out but no luck.

Dear Sir,

Further to your email received today regarding shipment of Gold from
Australia to Nigeria, I regret to inform you we have no capacity to handle
such shipments now or in the foreseeable future.

Thank you again.

Yours truly,
LUKE BUTLER
CEO
Afra Airlines Ltd
7 Nortei Ababio Street
Airport Residential Area
Accra - Ghana

Ghana Office Tel: +233 21 76 33 96
Ghana Office Fax: +233 21 77 30 80

Ghana Mobile Tel: +233 244 932 488


>
> ------ Forwarded Message
> From: "sunfish@ixxxxxxxxxx" <sunfish@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> Date: Tue, 8 Feb 2005 10:11:41 +1000
> To: "[email protected]" <[email protected]>
> Subject: Afra Airlines Online Contact Form
>
> Name: John Poisson
> Phone:
> E-Mail: sunfish@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> Comments: I have a requirement to move several containers of gold, gold
> bearing scrap and second hand jewellery from Australia to Nigeria. Is this
> of interest to your firm?
>
> regards,
>
> j poisson,
>
> Operations Manager.

[aussie come home]

Good try!
It might indicate that this little adventure is finally on its last throws.
Doubt too many got caught on this one and maybe he has burnt most of his capital in the move.
We can only ever be eternally vigilent.
Can't understand how people don't do any research.
This time it was Americans-enough said.
Still nothing on what has happened to the poor guys in BNE!

[b747heavy]

Aussie Come Home...

I am sorry to say that we may not be seeing the last of Luke Butler. In my experience this guy has more tricks up his sleeve than one cares to think about. I am all for the removal of this pest from our industry and the saving of innocent persons and their hard earned cash.

As to his available capital, this is very much an unknown...The guy cannot hang on to coin to save himself, however, being as slippery as he is, one must remember that to survive, there has to be a pool of funds on standby to race away from one burning building and still be able to build the next??

Sunfish...

Nice try on the email but with Flukey, it takes less attraction than the prospect of hauling Gold to get him to move...You have to remember that he considers himself to be a business man, therefore a more legitimate looking request that has the glow of available funds (read possible deposits) may well gain the contact you are looking for...

Tail Wheel...

The 747SP you mention is sitting in Jakarta and has been doing so since returning there in late 2001. I managed to get inside last time I was there and it is missing some cockpit items, but other than that, it is more or less complete. Way behind on the maintenance however...A shame to see it going this way...

jmc-man...

PM me... I may be of some assistance?

I forgot...regarding the guy's in BNE working on the AOC etc... All are no longer there and are now involved in running their own lives and /or careers.

B747heavy :ok:

[aussie come home]

Can we find out if he has escaped from Ghana yet.
I received a strange e-mail from there with a request for consulting assistance which had all the look of the Wizard.
Seems all quiet in the thread in Airlines and Airports.
Where is he going to pop up next!
Sorry to hear about the poor guys in BNE. They were warned enough times.

[crocodile redundee]

:) LETS JUST SAY THAT I WORKED AT FORTITUDE VALLEY FOR A PERIOD TRYING TO GET THE SP CERTIFIED. ITS SAFE TO SAY THAT WE ALL KNEW THAT OUR CHANCES OF SUCCEEDING IN THIS EFFORT WERE VERY SLIM......HOWEVER HATS OFF TO FLUKEY- HE WAS DEAD SET KEEN TO GET HIS SP REGISTERED. WE ENJOYED OUR EFFORTS BUT WERE BEATEN BY CASA & THE SYSTEM......YES, WE WERE WARNED.... BUT WE STILL HAD A GREAT TIME I RECKON, IT MAY HAVE JUST COME OFF!!!!!!!! TRAGIC THAT THE AIRCRAFT IS ROTTING IN JAKARTA TOO........

[an-124]

Do you think that they guy on the right knows he is about to be shafted?????

[aussie come home]

Not sure even now he or the Indian tribe in the US know they have been shafted.
Most people would have run a mile after Babcock and Brown denied having any dealings with the Flukey Lukey enterprises.
The guy still has great style and keeps sucking them in!
Who else could get a government for $6m plus and still be alive today!

[Woomera]

Annual Return a tad overdue? (http://www.search.asic.gov.au/cgi-bin/gns030c)

Indeed, I'm surprised the company is not in official management or even exists.

[Flight Detent]

Hey Croc Redundee -

I was one of the crew that ferried that SP to Jakarta.

Send me a PM, I'd like to know what happened.

FD

:confused:

[Capt Snooze]

From AVflash:

The Navajo Nation has opted out of a partnership with Utilicraft Aerospace to build a new twin-prop freight hauler. The project was announced in December, but then two state agencies in New Mexico reviewed the proposal and warned the tribe to proceed with extreme caution before putting any money into the project, IndianCountry.com reported on Tuesday.

[gaunty]

Looks like there is a Spirit God rooting for the Navajo's after all. :ok: They have been done over every which way in the past and have learned to seprate the sh!t from the clay.:)

They must have been reading/listening to Thomas King too.:cool:

[an-124]

This just been published in Payload Asia.


Global Air Group buys 100 freighters
American Utilicraft Corporation of Lawrenceville, GA, and Global Air Group, of Brisbane, Australia, reached final agreements for the purchase of 100 twin-turboprop FF-1080 freighter.

The deal has an estimated value of approximately $1.2 billion, including support, spares, and training packages.

The construction of the production aircraft is scheduled to begin upon the first flight of the FF-1080 prototype, slated for mid-November 2005.

Global Air will use the aircraft to feed B747F operations in Europe and Africa. It plans to set up operations for Pan African operations in Accra, Ghana

[Seaman Staines]

Flukey's just made the news again........ in Africa! :ok:

http://www.ghanaian-chronicle.com/thestory.asp?id=5565

GCAA have revoked his licence :E

[BAE146]

Flukey would not lose $8M of his money, it will be the investors' dough for sure !!!!:mad:

[Seaman Staines]

Well, that's Africa done and dusted.

Where to next, Central or South America?

Can't go back to the Eu, UK or MEast or Aus, too much bad history.

USA is out, too many good laws and enforcers.:E

My 2 Baht is on SEA, I hope I'm wrong.:}

[Seaman Staines]

Hey Flukey, how much did you repay to the Japanese?
Bugger all, I'll bet as you put the co. into liquidation?

Howz things in Ghana?:}

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/sil2/s.php?num=1&search=butler&DATUM=0

[Woomera]

Woomera's getting tired of moderating 4 threads on this topic. Consequently, I have merged these into one.

Let's try to keep it that way, eh folks?:E

[Seaman Staines]

Hi Woomera, as you've merged some of the threads, I'll have to apologise for the duplications now...... Sorry folks.:{

[gac111]

Ghana serves Luke Butler with deportation order.

Source : http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=80651

Luke Norman BUTLER, the Chief Executive Office of AFRA airline has been served with a deportation order by the government. Elizabeth Adjei has been instructed to cancel his permit and visa, which he got when he registered Afra Airlines Ltd and got GIPC approval.

[compressor stall]

Seems that the deportation order is no longer in force....

[Gunship]

From Ghanaweb :

Castle stops AFRA CEO's deportation
A source at the seat of the government has confirmed that Luke Norman BUTLER, the Chief Executive Office of AFRA airline, will NOT be deported.

Mr. Butler is looking forward to getting his licence back.... ...... Developing....

Earlier today: AFRA CEO to be deported!: Luke Norman BUTLER, the Chief Executive Office of AFRA airline has been served with a deportation order by the government.

Elizabeth Adjei (head of Immigration) has been instructed to cancel his resident permit and visa, which he got when he registered Afra Airlines Ltd and got GIPC approval.

Ms. Adjei has denied receiving any such instructions. However, a very reliable source told GHP, he saw the instruction on Ms. Adjei’s desk. Apparently, the plan was not to inform Mr. Butler about the cancellation. However, if he left the country, he would not have been allowed back.

[Gunship]

From Ghanaweb :
Ghana Immigration service has returned the passport of Luke Butler, CEO of Afra airlines.

Last Friday, the Deputy Director of Immigration, Mr. Gyamfi, on the orders of the Chief of Staff, Mr. Kwadwo Mpiani, confiscated Mr. Butler's passport.

The local media, together with the Australian's lawyers pointed out the illegal nature of what the immigraton authority did, i.e. the intended deportation, cancelling of visa, holding an Australian passport and frustrating investment and employment of Ghanaian staff.

"There are no changes recorded to my 12 months residency and work permit." Butler said after receiving the passport

"Now we must seriously work on getting Afra Airlines Ltd Air Carrier's Certificate (ACL) re-issued without the arbitrary restrictions imposed by the former Minister, Dr Richard Anane." he continued

[Seaman Staines]

Afra Airlines lay offs staff, refocus outside of Ghana

In view of the suspension of Afra Airlines Air carrier license (ACL) in February 2005 and recent revocation of the ACL, it has become a necessity for Afra Airlines to reduce overheads and re-focus its business primarily outside of Ghana.

The cost to Afra Airlines to operate and provide employment for 40 staff has been over 100 Million cedis per month. For the last 8 months the company has been paying its workers salaries and meeting other overheads whilst it has appealed to the Government of Ghana for the release of its company’s Air Carrier’s License (ACL) to allow it to operate as an airline in Ghana.

Afra Airlines management has reached a stage that a decision on the future direction of the company and its staffing requirements had to be taken. In the current situation, it is has become clear the company can no longer justify to continue the employment of staff for ticket sales and reservations of its offices in Accra when it is not permitted to operate in Ghana. Therefore some 20 staff have been laid off, whilst the company re-focuses its business to operate outside of Ghana. Management of Afra Airlines expressed their sincere regret and disappointment of the Government’s decisions to first approve, then restrict, then suspend and finally revoke its ACL.

As a result of these decisions by the Government, Afra Airlines felt it had been compelled to lay off these staff members. Plans to employ a further 100 staff as flight attendants, which the company has already interviewed and selected, have also been suspended.

The management of Afra Airlines wish to thank all the affected laid off workers for their patience, sacrifice and strict discipline which enabled them to stand by the company and their work mates.

Speaking on behalf of Afra Airlines management Mrs. Simone Ayele Butler, Executive Director for Human Resources, assured all affected staff that the company shall rehire in the event it receives the necessary permissions to operate as an airline in Ghana.

For further comment contact:

Nana Asante Bediatuo Lawyer & Spokesman for Afra Airlines 0244 349 797

Source: Afra Airlines

refocus outside of Ghana

Geez Flukey, who (or which country) are you going to con next?:mad:

[Pass-A-Frozo]

I was more shocked to read that according to the ABC , Oman is now in Jordan :p

[gac111]

Luke Butler accuses President of Ghana of a "high level conspiracy" to ruin his reputation.

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=83126

[gac111]

From The Daily Graphic, Accra - July 19

An Accra Circuit Court has issued a warrant for the arrest of Luke Norman Butler who is wanted by the Greater Accra Regional Police CID for an alleged fraud to the tune of 450,000 US Dollars.

Luke Norman Butler is an Australian national and Chief Executive Officer of AFRA Airlines. He is about 5ft 6inches tall. (Picture provided)

Anybody with information about his whereabouts should contact the Greater Accra Regional Police CID, the nearest Police Station or call 021-662139, 0244-331936 or 020-8178862.

[gaunty]

It seems like the web :p closes on our friend.

[tinpis]

My money says hes heading for Perth.

He'll be hard to spot there :rolleyes:

[gaunty]

In amongst the rest of the two bob millionaires and four on the floor entrepeneurs you are probably right.

Your Wazza Anderson (Tipperary) is currently in court after 15 or so years getting the $50,000,00 plus costs and interest circa $100,000,000 that the WA Labour Govt then and now back in power stiffed him for, in the attempt to shore up their mates Laurie and Alan and keep the ex Premier and his mates out of jail. Didn't work for any of them. :E

Now the piper will be paid, a well deserved result for Anderson but a pyrrhic victory for the WA taxpayers who will have to pay for it.

Might just have to get an action up against the goons who were then in Govt to make them pay it out of all the "consulting" fees they earn't whilst they were incumbent. :rolleyes:

Dunno how you go into Parliament with nothing and come out a multimillionaire do you?

Yeah Lukey would be in good company with the current lot and taking money off that boofhead Ripper, our Treasurer, will be like taking candy off a new born. And Scary the Minister for Transport only needs a quaff or two and she's your mate.:{

[tinpis]

:ugh: geezaz ..pat...pat...yer can always come up here mate its not nearly that bad ....YET !

[CoodaShooda]

Give it time tinny, give it time :{

[Seaman Staines]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/butler.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/butler2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif

[Engineer]

Well you can go a long way on $450,000 :ok:

[Seaman Staines]

Berlin wall, yesterday......

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/butlerwall.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/udon/cheer.gif

[Woomera]

Berlin??????

:confused: :confused:

Engineer, that is but a mere drop in the bucket of the ill gotten gains.

[Seaman Staines]

He blew that 450K a year ago, it belongs to the Ghanaian Doctor he conned.

If he had funds, he would have coughed before it got to court.

I can just see him, machette in hand struggling thru the jungle, muttering, "where's the bloody border."

But reality says, he skipped Ghana weeks ago.
I hope I'm wrong :ok:

PS... Berlin wall, woomie:}

[Engineer]

Sure he is not at that nice resort in Ada sipping a nice cool Star :E planning his next venture :{

Maybe he will tie up with Ismail at Interlink (http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?threadid=180074&perpage=20&pagenumber=2) in SA :ok:

Woomera a mere drop in the bucket I must be in the wrong job :{

[Parrhresiastes]

Sounds like the Navajo Indians must have been doing a bit of "windtalking" amongst themselves.

I guess that multibillion $ deal for the new Israeli cargo thingummy is off.

[Seaman Staines]

www.ghanaweb.com: General News of Friday, 29 July 2005


Luke Butler wanted by Police
The Criminal Investigation department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has renewed its appeal to members of the public to help it to arrest Mr Luke Butler, Chief Executive of Afra Airlines.

Mr Butler is wanted by the police for defrauding a US based- Ghanaians, Dr Sam Akuoko to the tune of$450,000.

The Director of the CID, David Asante Appeatu who made the appeal on Thursday said in November last year, Butler made false representations to Dr Akuoku that he had a Boeing 747 aircraft in Indonesia and needed money to bring it down to start an airline in Ghana.

He said Mr Butler told Dr Akuoko to transfer an amount of $400,000 into a cedi account in Ghana to facilitate the transaction.

According to him Butler further asked Dr Akuoko to use an additional $50,000 to open an office of the airline in the US.

He said Butler assured Dr Akuoko that when the airline became operational, he (Butler) and his wife, Mrs Siomone Butler who were the sole directors of the company, would offload 30 per cent shares to Dr Akuoko.

Mr Apeatu said after transferring the money and opening the office in the US, Dr Akuoko contacted Butler to find out when the aircraft was to be brought to Ghana.

In response, Mr Apeatu said, Butler allegedly told Dr Akuoko that they were going to hire an aircraft to start the operations.

The director said Dr Akuoko objected to that because it was contrary to what he had been made to believe and therefore, demanded a refund.

He said Butler started playing hide and seek with Dr Akuoko until the matter was referred to the police for investigations.

He said Mrs Butler was arrested and during interrogation, she admitted receiving the money.

Mr Appeatu said Mrs Butler was currently on police enquiry bail.



http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/printnews.php?ID=86907
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Daily Graphic

[BAE146]

Flukey plays hide and seek with all his creditors, nothing new there. He will soon have nowhere to go.

[Wizard]

Luke Butler Triumphs

Court stops Civil Aviation, Immigration

AN ACCRA Commercial Court has restrained the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Ghana Immigration Services (GIS) and Attorney General (AG), their principals and agents, from carrying out the purported revocation of the residential and work permits of two directors of AFRA Airlines, an Australian airline, until final determination of a suit before it. Delivering its ruling yesterday, on the plea of the Australian investors, Luke Butler and Andrew Lachajcezak, Chief Executive Officer and I.T Manager respectively, of AFRA Airlines, the court presided over by Justice Henry Cofie, noted that the plaintiffs should not be prevented from moving into or going out of the country, until the suit is finalized.

The court upheld that greater hardship is put on plaintiffs in view of the deportation order given by a letter dated June 2, 2005 from the Minister of Interior; declaring their continuous stay in the country would be a criminal offence punishable by a fine or imprisonment.

The court further indicated that the Minister of Interior has powers under the law to revoke the residential permit of foreign nationals if their presence is not conducive to the country and therefore could not be bound to observe the natural justice rule the plaintiffs claim in their arguments.

AFRA Airlines, together with its directors, on June 9, 2005 issued a writ against the GCAA, with GIS and the AG as co-defendants.

The plaintiffs were seeking the order of the court to restrain the defendants, their principals and agents from carrying out or taking any further steps on the notice contained in a letter of June 2, 2005, revoking their residential and work permits by the GIS and the AG.

They further sought, in addition to cost and other reliefs, an order that defendants by their action were unfair and unreasonable, which constituted a breach of Act 678, L.I. 1075, Articles 23 and 296 of the 1992 Constitution and should therefore rescind their decision and reinstate their residential and work permits.

On June 23, 2005, the court granted the AG’s request of a mandatory 30-day written notice required under the law before it was sued.

In an affidavit in support of their motion, plaintiffs noted that since the incorporation of AFRA Airlines under the laws of the country, it had concretized its objectives with an amount of US$8.5million investment and employed 40 people; however, half of the people were laid off, following defendants’ action, even though frantic efforts at widening its operations were undertaken.

Plaintiffs averred that following the investment made in the country, the two co-defendants issued them with a year’s residential and work permit under section 13 (1) of the Immigration Act, 2000 (Act 573), effective November 24, 2004 to reside in the country.

According to plaintiffs, they applied for an Air Carrier License (ACL) meant to carry cargo and passengers worldwide and were given the license, followed by a review on January 12, 2005 by the Acting Director-General of GCAA.

They argued that the airline was further issued with an Air Travel Organizer’s License by the Ghana Tourist Board, when an application was made on January 13, 2005.

Plaintiffs noted that while waiting for the review of the ACL, CTK CityLink Airline publicly announced on February 3, 2005 that it would co-operate with Plaintiff Company to assist offering domestic services in the sub region.

Coincidentally, plaintiffs noted, by a letter dated February 4, 2005, the GCAA informed Plaintiff Company that it had been directed by the Minister for Roads and Transport, Dr. Richard Anane, to suspend the ACL issued to AFRA Airlines without any reasons.

Additionally, plaintiffs point out that another letter of May 5, 2005 was received from the GCAA, being an order by the Chief of Staff and Minister for Presidential Affairs, Mr. Kojo Mpiani, to revoke plaintiffs’ license.

Plaintiffs intimated that the suspension and subsequent revocation of its license was improper and that the GCAA and the AG’s conduct was meant to undermine their business and investment, as the actions of the two government officials were wrong and constituted a breach of Act 678 and L.I. 1075.

Subsequently, the plaintiffs noted that a letter from the Director of GIS notified that their work and residence permits had been annulled with effect from June 2, 2005 and the airline’s ACL had been revoked and therefore had no authority to operate in the country.

Plaintiffs’ counsel, Mr. Tony Lithur, had argued that his clients were not treated fairly by the authorities before revoking their licenses, since they were not given the opportunity to respond to the queries made by the Ghanaian authorities, in spite of their heavy investments.

Counsel for second defendants, GIS, had argued that the plaintiffs’ application was premature since the letter written to them had a window of opportunity where they could reapply for the permits.

Counsel indicated that plaintiffs had not made any attempt to apply for the permit as requested by the immigration.

Chief State Attorney, Kathleen Quartey Ayensu in her arguments, indicated that the presence of plaintiffs in the country, in the view of the authorities, was not conducive for the country as it led to the revocation and subsequent invalidation of the work and residential permit of plaintiffs.

The chief state attorney held that it would not be fair to ban ministers from doing what they were required to do under the law, in the interest of the country.

The Chief of Staff, Mr.Kwadwo Mpiani now has oversight over the Aviation which used to be part of the Ministry under the aegis of Dr. Richard Anane.

Source: Chronicle

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePa...el.php?ID=86904

[Seaman Staines]

So what, my little sociopath, you're just pissing in the wind now.

You didn't attend that court as you would have been arrested.

Where are you now? hiding behind mummy's skirt, you w*nker!:}

You are a thief and proven fraudster, if, and when the law catches up with you, you will claim that everyone is at fault except you.

I and many others hope that you rot in an African jail and Bubba finds you in there :E

[Seaman Staines]

Flukey,

tell us about the US$50,000 you conned out of Thai Sabai Airline's board, the CEO is very anxious to see you again in BKK.

:E

Author: Noriega (registered user)
Date: 08-08-2005 11:46

The Courier Mail (Queensland, Australia) August 8, 2005 Monday

Pg. 8

Airline wheeler-dealer fights deportation bid

Chris Griffith

A QUEENSLAND businessman who was sued by the Japanese Government for a failed agreement to fly Red Army terrorists to Tokyo has been warned he would be shot if he entered Thailand after allegedly fleecing an airline of $US50,000 ($65,000).

Former bankrupt Luke Norman Butler, whose aircraft-related deals have angered the governments of Japan and Cameroon, also is wanted by police in Ghana in West Africa.

"I think that if he comes to Thailand someone would shoot him, maybe me," an angry Sabai Airlines chief executive officer Tanapat Bunyarak told The Courier-Mailyesterday.

Captain Bunyarak said Mr Butler had obtained $US50,000 from the board of Sabai Airlines as a deposit for three US-based 747-200 aircraft, which he apparently did not own.

In Ghana, Mr Butler faces arrest concerning an alleged fraud involving $US450,000. Police say Mr Butler had made false representations in that he had a Boeing 747 aircraft in Indonesia and needed money to bring it down to start an airline in Ghana. Mr Butler, whose wife Simone is from Ghana and who has been arrested, had opened an airline there, employed 40 staff and planned to engage 100 more, claiming his venture was backed by funding of $US8.5 million.

Mr Butler, who is at large and fighting deportation, had claimed he had forged a deal with US\'s Utilicraft Corp for his Brisbane company to buy 100 FF-1080 Freight Feeder aircraft for $1.2 billion.

However, in February his air licence was revoked and in May, Australian authorities banned him from managing corporations for three years.

LOAD-DATE: August 7, 2005



[This is an authentic posting from Noriega (Registered User)]

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/sil2/r.php?num=1&id=1541252&thread=1541252

[Seaman Staines]

It's only a rumour but Butler is in Benin, in hiding.

[Tail_Wheel]

Anyone seen Wizard, the dude on the left?

http://www.utilicraft.com/images/GlobalAirFF1080_captioned.jpg

Flukey, the dude on the right looks like he's related to you? Were you both in this scam together, or were you working on stinging this guy too?

I see you also star in the Australian Securities & Investment Commission (http://www.search.asic.gov.au/cgi-bin/grb040c) con-men Database.

What happened to the Bently? Repossessed?

[Seaman Staines]

There was a strong "rumour" that thse two were in cahoots to dud the Navaho Nation.
Fortunately the elders took advice from the US Gov and backed out of bankrolling USUC.

But, it's just a rumour :E :}

Butler must be standing on a brick, as the Ghanaian police describe him as 5'6" short.

[Air Ace]

Same dentist I see! :}

[Seaman Staines]

Author: NewsTalk (www.ghanaweb.com)
Date: 08-09-2005 14:04

Lawyers for Afra Airlines are preparing to take action aimed at contesting the cancellation of the Air Carrier's License of the airline, as well as the revocation yesterday, of the resident permits of the CEO Mr. Luke Butler and his IT Manager, Mr. Andrew Lachajczak, effective from yesterday.

Sources close to Butler's lawyers told the Chronicle that the revocation of the resident permit came as a shock to Butler, as they had been assured just two days earlier, by the Director of Immigration, Ms Elizabeth Adjei, that there was not going to be a change to his status.
---------

Gee, bad luck Flukey.:{ :E

[Seaman Staines]

Comments about condition of D6-OZX Jan 12, 2004

No Titles .... ex Global livery, white tail at CGK

The aircraft is missing some cockpit items and the cabin is not holding up under the Jakarta humidity and temperature and it requires a load of maintenance and CPCP work to come back to flying status.

http://www.747sp.com/History.asp?22302

----------------

In worse shape now I imagine :{

[Seaman Staines]

Re : Luke Norman Butler

Creditors might try turning over a few rocks here in BENIN.


"Benin Airlines" (No listing)

10 BP 890, Cotonou – Benin

Tel: +229 97 265 669

Sounds like Flukey's hiding behind a post box this time.

:ok:

[thayrd]

Benin Airlines & Utilicraft Aerospace LOI for 100 Feeder Freighters

(Cotonou, Benin Africa – December 2, 2005) -– Benin Airlines, SA - Today officials of Benin Airlines SA, and Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc., executed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for 100 of Utilicraft’s FF-1080-300 ER (Extended Range) Freight Feeder aircraft, with an option on an additional 100.

The initial 100 aircraft transaction is valued at $1.35 Billion USD and has been secured by an initial $5.0M good faith deposit from Benin Airlines to Utilicraft’s lawyers today.

The agreements between the two Companies grant Benin Airlines exclusive Distributorship and a Final Assembly rights for a period of 25 years.

The Distributorship Agreement appoints Benin Airlines as the exclusive FF-1080-300 distributor for Africa and specific Middle East markets, including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Baharain, and Lebanon.

The Final Assembly Agreement will grant Benin Airlines the right to complete final assembly-kits of the Aircraft purchased by Benin Airlines.

Benin Airlines plans to locate their Final Assembly facility in either Africa, or one of the Middle East regions mentioned above.

Utilicraft will complete Final Assembly of the “kits” shipped to Benin Airlines at its planned facilities at Double Eagle II Airport in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The FF1080-300 ER version of the aircraft is the same basic airframe of the -300 currently under development by Utilicraft Aerospace, but with a 10,000 gross weight increase to 80,000 lbs. This increase will allow the Aircraft to carry additional fuel for a max range of 2,000 nautical miles including IFR reserves, with 20,000 lbs., in containers, in five A-1, A-2, or A-3 containers, or ten LD3 containers, or a combination of containers and pallets measuring 88 in. x 125 in. each.

Benin Airlines intends to operate the aircraft as feeder freighters in the growing African and Middle East airfreight markets, to offer them on wet lease ACMI basis (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance included), as well as dry lease and sale.

About Benin Airlines SA:
Benin Airlines is new airline being formed to be the first genuine low cost African airline to operate direct flights across sub-Saharan Africa and to Europe, Middle East, and the Americas commencing operations in second quarter 2006. Benin Airlines is a private company formed with an investment of $250M. Launch operations include 2 x 747-200F cargo aircraft, 2 x 747-400 and 5 x 737-300 passenger aircraft.

About Utilicraft Aerospace Industries
Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc., (UAI) was formed, in 2004, to target the significant problem of addressing the overnight express, international supply chain, e-commerce, and global third party logistics entities, inability to provide effective “containerized” fulfillment and distribution in the medium haul (or feeder) route segments of air cargo. The result of the Company’s research and development is a new air vehicle, the FF-1080-300 Freight Feeder aircraft, capable of cost-effectively carrying standard industry air containers on medium range/medium density routes, combined with an on-board integrated air cargo information and tracking system.

(Utilicraft) Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release involve risks and uncertainties and reflect the company’s current views with respect to possible future events. Readers are cautioned that no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results or events may materially differ from those projected or anticipated. In particular, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: the company’s ability to obtain and fulfil contracts for the sale of products, protect intellectual property rights and manage future growth; market acceptance of future products; product supplier delays; design and engineering certification delays or denials; and the introduction of similar products by competitors. Any forward-looking statement made in this press release is made as of the date of this press release, and the company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company’s business.


Contact:
Luke Butler – President Director General Benin Airlines SA
10 BP 890, Cotonou – Benin
Tel: +229 97 265 669
[email protected]

John J. Dupont – President, CEO Utilicraft Aerospace Industries
Email: [email protected]
Direct Number: (505) 699-7848
Fax: 505-212-0296





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The information resource for Global Aerospace & Defence business

[Wizofoz]

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice....:rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Woomera]

...............:{ :rolleyes: