The Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Godwin Balang, has reinforced the need for customized regulatory policies for airstrip development and operations in Nigeria.
Speaking at the maiden stakeholders’ meeting with airstrip owners and operators in Lagos, Balang announced that local airports without requisite permits will face sanctions starting January 1, 2026, as part of a collective commitment to safety and standards.
The meeting with the theme, “Enhancing Safety, Compliance and Collaboration for Efficient Airstrips Operations,” harped on the unique characteristics of airstrips and the need for specific regulatory attention.
Balang referenced Section 71 (3) & (4)(a) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022, which empowers the NCAA to certify and permit aerodrome operations and establish minimum safety standards.
According to him, the NCAA’s current database identifies approximately 92 airstrips in Nigeria, with 68 owned and managed by the federal government and 24 belonging to individuals and private organizations.
He noted that a number of these airstrips already possess valid operational permits and asserted the importance of enhanced collaboration between the NCAA and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to streamline roles and ensure effective management.
The director also announced the impending review of existing regulations and guiding documents to reflect changes in the aviation landscape.
He stressed the critical importance of aviation security at airstrips and called for the development of strategies to address emerging threats and maximize the socio-economic contributions of these vital aviation assets.
The authority’s efforts to advance airstrip regulation across the nation are expected to have a significant impact on the aviation industry, ensuring safer and more efficient operations.
Stakeholders have been encouraged to provide further input through written submissions, phone calls, and social media platforms, recognizing the limitations of a single-day forum.
The NCAA’s commitment to this engagement is in line with the Minister’s agenda for the aviation industry and the Director General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) performance bond.
