….Highlights Infrastructure Upgrades, Capacity Building Efforts
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has shed light on ongoing efforts to address flight disruptions, passenger behaviour, and airport infrastructure development in Nigeria.
Speaking at a meeting in Lagos with Airline operators organized by the NCAA on the global nature of flight delays and cancellations, Mrs. Kuku emphasized the need for improved communication and cooperation among aviation stakeholders.
Global Issue, Local Solutions
Mrs. Kuku noted that flight delays and cancellations are not unique to Nigeria.
“They happen everywhere in the world,” she said, highlighting the importance of communication between the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), FAAN, and airlines.
She urged passengers to ensure that accurate contact details, such as their email addresses and phone numbers, are provided during ticket bookings to receive timely updates on their flights.
The MD also revealed ongoing discussions with airlines to enhance passenger communication, ensuring that travelers receive accurate and prompt information.
Passenger Conduct and Security Measures
Mrs. Kuku addressed issues of unruly passenger behaviour, warning against misconduct at airports.
“We understand the plight of passengers, but behaving in a manner that demeans staff or disrupts operations will not be tolerated”.
She disclosed that individuals engaging in criminal activities at airports face prosecution, blacklisting, and placement on the no-fly list.
FAAN is also collaborating with multiple security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force and NDLEA, to ensure safety at airports. Armed personnel are stationed as a deterrent, with the primary goal of maintaining order.
Judicial and Operational Enhancements
To handle incidents efficiently, magistrate and mobile courts have been established at major airports, ensuring swift prosecution of offenders.
FAAN is working closely with the Ministry of Justice and state governments to streamline judicial processes.
Infrastructure and Capacity Building
Regarding infrastructure, Mrs. Kuku highlighted significant strides in modernizing airport facilities.
She noted the installation of airfield lighting at several airports, enabling night operations, adding that, efforts are also underway to enhance passenger handling through the procurement of advanced screening machines capable of detecting explosives and narcotics.
“We’re not just building; we’re modernizing and simplifying facilities to ensure a better experience for passengers”. Secondary airports are also receiving upgrades, with improved general infrastructure to support growing demand.
On operational efficiency, Mrs. Kuku addressed the issue of underutilized terminals, explaining that extending operational hours will only be feasible when there is sufficient passenger traffic.
“Keeping a terminal open for just one or two flights is unsustainable,” she said, adding that upgrades are prioritized in collaboration with airlines and regulatory bodies such as the NCAA and NAMA.
Mrs. Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to addressing challenges in the aviation sector through collaboration, innovation, and enhanced communication.
“We are moving forward with capacity building, infrastructure upgrades, and maintaining order at our airports to ensure a seamless experience for all stakeholders”.
