Director of Airport Operations (DAO), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN Highlights Achievements, Challenges, and Plans for Nigeria’s Aviation Industry
In an exclusive interview, DAO, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, shared his experiences and initiatives since assuming office.
He highlighted the challenges faced by the authority, including the closure of Runway 18 Right at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and the need to upgrade facilities and infrastructure.
Runway 18 Right Reopening
Capt. Mahmood revealed that the runway was closed for eight months, longer than initially planned, due to contractual issues. However, with the support of the Managing Director and the Minister of Aviation, the runway was reopened, and the Link 1 was also fixed. This has enabled the airport to operate with two runways, improving efficiency and safety.
Hajj Operation Success
The Director also spoke about the successful Hajj operation in Ilorin, which was made possible by the installation of runway lighting. This achievement demonstrates FAAN’s commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of airports and the safety of passengers.
Facility Upgrades
Capt. Mahmood emphasized the need to upgrade facilities, citing the poor state of some airport buildings, which have been in use for over 40 years. While remodeling is a long-term process, FAAN is working to upgrade facilities, including the installation of new toilets, which will be launched soon.
Certification of Airports
He acknowledged that certification of airports, particularly Lagos and Abuja, is ongoing, assuring that most of the gaps identified by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority have been closed, and the authority is working to ensure that all airports meet international standards.
Schedule for Runway Maintenance
Capt. Mahmood explained that FAAN has implemented a schedule for runway maintenance, including friction tests and derubberization, to ensure that runways are safe and efficient. This schedule he stressed is based on the number of landings and aircraft movements, and the authority follows it religiously.
Evacuation Equipment
The Director confirmed that FAAN has a complete set of aircraft recovery equipment in Abuja, which is fully serviceable and regularly maintained. The authority is also planning to acquire additional equipment to enhance its capabilities.
Infrastructure Challenges
Capt. Mahmood highlighted the challenges posed by inadequate infrastructure, including the need for perimeter fencing, apron expansion, and the extension of the GTA Terminal.
He emphasized that infrastructure is key to airline operations and that FAAN is working to mitigate these challenges through a master plan and by leveraging underutilized airports.
Apron Expansion
The Director revealed that FAAN is working on a master plan to expand the apron, which is a major challenge due to the airport’s limited space.
The authority is also exploring options to incentivize airlines to use underutilized airports, reducing the pressure on major airports like Lagos, he said.
Cannibalized Aircraft Removal
Capt. Mahmood assured that FAAN is working to remove cannibalized aircraft from the airport, which is occupying valuable space. He revealed that the Minister has personally visited the graveyard area and that progress is being made on this issue.
