Sirika suspends Abuja Airport staff over tarmac intrusion

The Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, suspended  three officials of Nnamdi Azikwe  International airport Abuja over an encroachment of the tarmac  by Turkish Airlines’ passengers .

According to James Odaudu, Deputy Director, Press and Public Affairs in the ministry, “ the minister disclosed this while briefing newsmen after listening to explanations by the airport officials on the incident on Sunday in Abuja.”

Sirika said  that the Ministry had also ordered thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the breach, as well as why the airline brought in passengers without their luggage.

The suspended officials according to him are the Airport Manager, Terminal Manager and Head of Airport Security who were ordered to handover to their next in rank pending the conclusion of the investigation.

The minister said the explanation by the officials of the airport that the security personnel on duty were overpowered was not acceptable, ordering for thorough investigation into the incident.

He stated that the actions of the passengers by forcing their ways into the tarmac and blocked the aircraft from taking off was a security breach which must not be condoned.

``There has been an unfortunate incident where some agitated passengers of the Turkish Airlines arrived without their luggage making them to force their way into the tarmac which is a breach of security.

``The explanation given is not satisfactory because the primary purpose of the government is to ensure safety of lives and property of its citizens.

``The cardinal objective of this administration is to secure the country and manage it and we cannot fail in aviation and we cannot fail in this important assignment at a very important point.

``We have ordered for the investigation into the matter immediately and all the people that are manning the various places, Airport Manager, Terminal Manager and Head of Security should handover to the next man in rank pending the outcome of the investigation.

``As to the airline, the Consumer Protection Unit of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has been ordered to find out what happened, how compliant they are and deal with it accordingly,’’ he said.

Sirika said the ministry was yet to  get the flight manifest to be able to ascertain the number of passengers involved which he added were many in number.

According to him, they got agitated and apparently got access into the prohibited area because there was security lapse.

The Minister stated that the nation’s aviation sector had the capacity to grow, adding that it was already showing signal that it could tremendously contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

According to him, aviation is carrying by value, 31 per cent of the world cargo which make it a very important industry as the fastest means of transportation more efficiently.

``With specific to Nigeria, you could see how we grew from Kano Airport where the first plane landed in the country to about 22 Federal Government owned airports plus several other private owned airports.

``On the whole, aviation I can say has grown to an appreciable level in the country and it has the capacity to grow more which is important to the economy of the country, he said.

Sirika added that the country also had good manpower such as pilots and engineers to move the industry forward.

He disclosed that the government was determined to deliver a more vibrant and efficient aviation sector in 2016 by making safety, security and efficiency its watch word with regards to transportation.

According to the Minister, once you are safe and secured in the industry, you have nearly achieved 100 percent of what you are meant to achieve.

``It is not about the beauty of the airports or planting flowers or other vanities, it is about safety, security and efficiency as far as aviation is concerned,’’ he said.

Earlier, Mr Bashir Hausawa, Acting Head of Security explained to the minister that the security personnel were overpowered by the angry passengers over the non-arrival of their luggage.

Hausawa added that the shortage of manpower was responsible for the incident, adding that there was only one man manning luggage area of the airport during the incident.

He said they were 192 security men manning the whole of the airport resulting in the shortage of manpower distribution to various units of the airport.

SAHCOL GETS ISAGO CERTIFICATION FOR KANO STATION

Recording another feat in its ground handling operations, the Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano Station has passed the International Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO), conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

According to Basil Agboarumi, General Manager, Corporate Communications of the company, “This certification signifies that the Skyway Aviation handling Company Limited at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano has now modeled its operations to the ISAGO standards, as a result making a commitment to operate to globally accepted industry best practices.

 The registration which is in accordance with the provisions of the ISAGO Program Manual covers the operational disciplines of Load Control (LOD), Passenger and Baggage Handling (PAB), Aircraft Handling and loading (HDL), Aircraft Ground Movement (AGM), and Cargo and Mail Handling (CGM).”

Basil further explained that the Skyway Aviation Handling Company limited's Lagos Station was first certified in 2011. The certification of the Kano Station now brings to three (Lagos, Abuja and Kano) the number of SAHCOL stations admitted on the IATA website as an "ISAGO Registered Provider", having undergone an ISAGO Audit and cleared all findings..

ISAGO audit is essential to promote safer ground operations, understanding of high risk areas within ground operations. The audit also eliminates redundant audits from airlines, hence promoting a uniform audit process and harmonized standards that improve quality standards in aviation ground handling.

The Skyway Aviation handling Company Limited became a SIFAX Group Company in December 2009, after its successful privatization by the Federal Government of Nigeria. Within this period, SAHCOL has invested in personnel development, purchase of modern ground handling equipment, infrastructural development and good customer services, which has helped reposition the company to meet the expectations and needs of its growing list of clientele. 

Bauchi Airport incident has nothing to do with us-FAAN

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN has made public that the unacceptable incidence at the Bauchi Airport is not its making. According to the statement made available through the agency’s spokesman, Yakubu Dati  “ we wish to clarify that Aero Contractors’ use of unauthorized equipment (ladder) to disembark its passengers does not have anything to do with FAAN.”

Dati explained further that the Bauchi Airport is managed by the Bauchi State Government and that FAAN only provides statutory services at the airport such as aircraft marshalling, aviation security services and fire cover. The Authority does not provide handling services for Aero Contractors and therefore does not understand why it should be held responsible for non-provision of appropriate equipment for passenger disembarkation.

Meanwhile, the Accountable Manager of Aerocontractors, Captain Russell B. Lee Foon explained that all proper arrangements were made including the assurance of the airstairs  before they embarked on the charter operation of the aircraft Boeing 737-500 to the Bauchi Airport.

 Briefing aviation correspondents at their Headquaters on the issue Russell said:  “On Thursday 17th December 2015, a charter was booked and confirmed from Abuja to Bauchi on a Boeing 737 -500 series aircraft. The charter was booked by a group of young people, part of a wedding party, attending this important event in Bauchi.

On Friday 18th December 2015, confirmed arrangements were made by our Head of Ground Operations, Mr. Peter Omata for the handling of the flight through the airport manager of Bauchi, Mr. Abubakar. He confirmed on many occasions the availability of the airstairs and cost. The aircraft to be used for the flight was 5N-BLG, a Boeing 737-500 series aircraft. This aircraft was positioned into Abuja on the evening of December 18th 2015.

On Saturday 19th December 2015, schedule time of departure for Bauchi was 09:00. Passengers arrived late at the airport after departure time and this delayed the flight’s departure. The flight was under the command of Captain Nikcevic VLADO.”

Aerocontractors' statement on Bauchi Airport incident as delivered by the Managing Director

L-R: Simon Tumba, CEO, SY&T Communications; Captain Russell B. Lee Foon, Accountable Manager / Acting MD, Aero; Captain Wole Fajobi, Fleet Manager B737, Aero; Peter Omata, Head Ground Operations, Aero at the Aero Press Conference on the ground handling at Bauchi

On Thursday 17^th December 2015, a charter was booked and confirmed from Abuja to Bauchi on a Boeing 737 -500 series aircraft. The charter was booked by a group of young people, part of a wedding party, attending this important event in Bauchi.

On Friday 18^th December 2015, confirmed arrangements were made by our Head of Ground Operations, Mr. Peter Omata for the handling of the flight through the airport manager of Bauchi, Mr. Abubakar. He confirmed on many occasions the availability of the airstairs and cost. The aircraft to be used for the flight was 5N-BLG, a Boeing 737-500 series aircraft. This aircraft was positioned into Abuja on the evening of December 18^th 2015.

Saturday 19^th December 2015.

Schedule time of departure for Bauchi was 09:00. Passengers arrived late at the airport after departure time and this delayed the flight’s departure. The flight was under the command of Captain Nikcevic VLADO.

Actual Time of Departure:   Off Blocks 09:30        Airborne 09:57

Prior to leaving Abuja, the Flight dispatcher contacted the Airport Manager to advise that the aircraft was taxing out and he confirmed that they were ready to receive the flight.

The flight was uneventful en-route.

At 10:42 the aircraft touched down on Runway 35 at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport. The controller advised the crew that due the absence of marshallers and no ramp officials of any sort that parking would be at their own discretion.

At 10:44 the flight dispatcher on board contacted the Airport Manager to advise him that they were on the ground, to which he confirmed that he was seeing the aircraft on taxi and that they were waiting.

After parking the Captain reports that they waited for up to 10 minutes for the stairs to be brought to the aircraft but no assistance or stairs came to the aircraft. The Captain reported that he informed the passengers of the situation as they were beginning to get agitated. What was not known to the crew at the beginning of the flight was that the Groom of the wedding was on board the flight. The wedding was to be started in another 20 minutes.

At 10:57 the crew called the controller to enquire as to why there was no one to position the stairs to the aircraft and he was told then that the stairs had “just broken down” and that the Fire services are making provisions to sort it out.

After waiting for another five to seven minutes the passengers became furious as they were now getting very late for the wedding ceremony. The Captain went to the cabin and explained to them that he may have to take them back to Abuja as they cannot disembark due lack of stairs. The group insisted that he cannot keep them on board the aircraft and he considered that their anger was becoming potentially threatening for the crew to take them back to Abuja.

The alternative which the Fire services provided was a ladder which the passengers took as an option and on their own free will decided to use the ladder to disembark against the wishes of the Captain and crew. The Captain allowed this procedure in order to reduce what he thought was a volatile situation.

At 12:55 with the airstair connected to the aircraft, passengers boarded the return flight to Abuja. The aircraft taxied out at 13:10 and was airborne at 13:24 arriving into Abuja at 14:05.

Below is an email which we received from one of the passengers in the group, please note his contact details.

Good evening sir,

Ajibola Adeoye (F/O on our flight) contacted me to ask about what happened today and I must say we are solely responsible for the decision to disembark using a ladder. We were running late, and could not spare time for the repair of the air stairs. Besides the slight inconvenience on arrival, the service provided by your company was very satisfactory 

Best Regards,
Waziri Sadiq

The following has been reached in the last 24 hours;

1.                  An investigation into the event has been called, the results of which could lead to changes in our operational procedures.

2.                  Following the findings of this investigation, it will become a part of our training and CRM re-currency training exercises.

3.                  The decision to perform any further charters into Bauchi is suspended on B737 equipment but we can consider charters into Bauchi on Q400 or Dash 8-300 aircraft.

4.           Any future charters to destinations that are not areas of scheduled commercial flight operations must have at least one permanent Ground Handling company on ground before we will consider.

5.              We will continue to operate our aircraft safely and within the guidelines of the law and the company must continue to ensure the safety and security of our crews and equipment at all times.

 Aero is proud of many factors;

1.                  It’s unblemished Safety Record

2.                  Its IOSA Certification and IATA membership which took a huge effort of the part of all employees of Aero to successfully achieve.

3.                  Our recent success at the latest NCAA Safety Audit which was just concluded.

Captain Russell B. Lee Foon

Accountable Manager / Acting MD

Aero Contractors of Nigeria

Federal Government frowns at the Bauchi Airport incident

Sen. Hadi Sirika Minister of State Aviation

…  Orders investigation into the use of unauthorized equipment

The Federal Government has condemned the incident that occur at the Bauchi Airport yesterday as unacceptable. Aviationages investigates the reaction of the Ministry of Transportation and a feeler got was that the Federal Government is not happy at all with the situation as it is a national embarrassment. “ The Federal Government is frowning at the incident. Eventhough the airport is a state one, it is still the responsibility of the Government  to see to it that all goes well and things are done in line with global acceptable recommended standard practices which the country is a signatory to. The Minister of State Aviation is not happy at all”. Meanwhile, The Minister of State Aviation Sen. Hadi Sirika has ordered investigation into the incident. A statement from the Office of the Minister of State Aviation confirms.  “ Honourable Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika has directed an immediate investigation into the use of an unauthorized equipment by Aero Contractors Airlines at the conclusion of a charter flight to Bauchi over the weekend . Several reports received by the Honourable Minister have indicated the airline used a ladder to disembark passengers from a Boeing 737 aircraft at the  Bauchi airport on Saturday December 19th 2015. According to the Minister, the act is inconsistent with Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS).”

The Minsiter gave the assurance that the investigation will determine the immediate and remote causes of the incident with a view to developing and implementing measures that will prevent a reoccurrence of the unsafe and unacceptable procedure that exposed passengers to high risk of serious injury.

He reiterated that if the airline is found culpable, the full weight of sanctions within extant laws and regulations would be applied on it.

The Honourable Minister assures the traveling public that the Ministry of Transport in collaboration with Nigerian Civil Aviation  Authority (NCAA) will ensure strict adherence to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations as well as ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices by all operators.

Sirika further states that the will not shriek in its responsibility to ensure a safe and secure air transport services which he views as sacrosanct.

AMAECHI COMMENDS NAMA’S AIRCRAFT e- CLEARANCE SOLUTION

L-R; Managing Director, Nigerian Airspace Management Authority(NAMA), Engr. Ibrahim Abdusalam. Managing Director, Federal Airport Authority (FAAN), Engr. Saleh Dunoma, Director, Research Planning and Statistics, Federal Ministry of Transport, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Minister of State for Transport, Senator Hadi Sirka, Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi and Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt, Muhtar Usman at the  Aircraft e- Clearance Solution demo at NCAA Annex MMIA Ikeja

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency has recorded yet another laudable feat in the aviation industry in Nigeria with the introduction of  Aircraft e-Clearance Solution. With this the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi has lauded the creativity behind the e-Flight Clearance web portal, developed by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in conjunction with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as a web based solution to the strenuous system of manually processing aircraft over flight  and landing permit by non-scheduled aircraft operators as obtained in the past.

 Hon. Amaechi who was at the NCAA Annex Complex, MMIA Lagos in company of the Minister of State, Aviation, Hon. Hadi Sirika and other top officials of the ministry for the demonstration of the e-flight clearance module to stakeholders noted that as a Governor of Rivers State in the recent past, he personally encountered challenges trying to process manual flight clearance, the same way other pilots and airline agents did.

 According to the minister, since the e-Flight Clearance can be processed online from anywhere in the world, without necessarily going to NAMA or NCAA offices, most of the delays would be removed from the system. ‘’What this software has done is that you can now manage your time better and make more money because time is money,” Amaechi said. He charged the media to be magnanimous in commending government whenever laudable milestones such as the e-clearance are attained, stressing that the development has given him and his entourage cause to be happy. He therefore congratulated the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for a job well done. 

Also in his remarks, the Director General of NCAA, Capt. Muhtar Usman noted that the need to deploy technology in improving services necessitated innovation in the manner flight clearances are conducted, adding that the electronic clearance system apart from addressing bureaucratic problems associated with paper work will also “be able to identify all incoming flights and record them in real time using their tail numbers as well as recording the time they depart the Nigerian airspace.”

It will be recalled that the need to transit from the manual process of processing flight clearance to electronic became imperative following the myriad of challenges that dogged the old system. These included difficulty in tracing documents, unnecessary bureaucracy leading to waste of time as well as vulnerability of the system to manipulation to the detriment of national security.

It was therefore in a bid to mitigate or completely eradicate the above challenges that Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in 2014 commenced the process of developing the web-based software application as an alternative to the manual system.

The e-Flight Clearance Solution is a cloud based application that allows aircraft agents to, remotely, submit application for a clearance number. Depending on the type of flight operation: overfly or landing. All overfly operations go to the clearance department of NAMA and the permit number is issued and broadcasted, then the agent gets the permit number via e-mail and SMS alert.

However, all landing operations will go to NCAA for aircraft documents checks and airworthiness status, through the airworthiness certificate issued in relation to the date of issue, before NAMA can generate and broadcast the Clearance number.

ACI TRAINS NIGERIA'S AIRPORT AUTHORITY STAFF

The ACI has commenced training of staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) at the Murtala Muhammed International airport (MMIA).

According to Yakubu Dati, General Manager Corporate Affairs of the agency , the training follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Managing Director of FAAN, Engr. Saleh Dunoma and Angela Gittens President of Airports Council international (ACI) World.

“The training being conducted by Mr Kevin Cooper courtesy of ACI will be concluded  in 2 weeks with beneficiaries drawn from MMIA Lagos and NAIA Abuja.

The subsidized training was offered by ACI, following the successful participation of the Lagos and Abuja staff in the Airport Excellence (Apex) review exercise, with a proviso that participants of the trainings are pre-determined by the Apex Safety team.

The training modules, which include, Global Safety Network (GSN 1) Safety Management Systems, aimed at a comprehensive review of the Safety Management Systems (SMS) and offering of understanding on correct implementation of the airport environment.  The course also offered the essential guidance on establishing, implementing and enhancing safety Management Systems (SMS).”-Dati explained.

Dati further said the Global Safety Network (GSN 2),which deals with Airside Safety and Operations,provides an overview of all aspects of airside safety and operations. It provides airport managers and supervisors with essential guidance on best practices, latest technology, new equipment and procedures and regulations for safe and efficient operation of the airside environment.

Visiting the training venue, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Engr Saleh Dunoma  led top management of the Authority on a visit to the training session coordinated by the General Manager Planning, Nse Ikiddeh.

Engr Dunoma charged staff to embrace new trends in the aviation sector and commended ACI for adding value to staff manpower.

ARIK AIR UPS FREQUENCY ON LAGOS-ACCRA-MONROVIA

Arik Air is increasing its frequency on the Lagos-Monrovia route from three weekly to four weekly flights effective Sunday, December 13, 2015.

The additional flight will be operated on Sunday to add to the existing Monday, Wednesday and Friday operations. This flight will also operate via Accra, Ghana as of the former schedule.

Outbound flight departs Lagos at 7:20 am (local time) and arrives in Accra at 7:20 am (local time). The flight thereafter departs Accra at 8:05 am and arrives in Monrovia at 10:05am (local time). The inbound flight departs Monrovia at 10:50 am and arrives in Accra at 12:50 pm (local time). The flight then leaves Accra at 1:35pm to arrive in Lagos at 3:35pm (local time).

Arik Air inaugurated the Lagos-Monrovia service on August 12, 2010 with twice a week flight service. This was later increased to four weekly before the suspension of flights to Monrovia due to the Ebola outbreak in July 2014. Arik Air resumed flight services to Monrovia on October 5, 2015 with three weekly flights.

NCAA DG WARNS AIRLINES OPERATORS AND PILOTS ON WEATHER

Capt. Muhtar Usman, DG NCAA

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has warned all airline operators and pilots to adhere strictly to the forecast of the meteorology agency in the country. According to the Director General, Capt. Muhtar Usman, “ The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has forecasted the occurrence of moderate to severe outbreaks of dust in the country during this harmattan period: November 2015 to March 2016.Severe outbreaks of dusts can reduce atmospheric visibility significantly and thus impact negatively on flight operations.”

Due to the forecast by NIMET , Usman issued a circular to all Airline Operators and Pilots to comply with  which are:

“Ensure that adequate departure, en route and destination weather information are obtained from NIMET prior to flight operations.

Exercise maximum restraint when adverse weather is observed or forecasted by NIMET.

Ensure that flight operations are scheduled with adequate weather information from NIMET to minimise delay or cancellation of flight operations.”

Alan Peaford to chair Business Aviation Conference in Nigeria

EAN Aviation, a Lagos-based fully integrated business aviation company has announced that the third Nigerian Business Aviation Conference, NBAC 2016 will take place on 17th and 18th March 2016 in Lagos, Nigeria.  The event is in top gear with the Chairman being confirmed as Alan Peaford, Editor in Chief of African Aerospace and Arabian Aerospace. Alan chaired NBAC 2014 and is well positioned to lead the event with his extensive knowledge and understanding of the West African aviation landscape.

Segun Demuren, CEO of EAN, founder and host of the symposium comments: “We are delighted that Alan has agreed to chair our event again. He’s extremely knowledgeable, and knows how to extract the best from our panellists and speakers to ensure the event adds value to the business aviation knowledgebase. We are excited to be hosting the event once again and look forward to welcoming delegates, speakers and sponsors.”

 

Alan Peaford

As with the previous event 2016 will incorporate two days of panels, keynote speeches and debates. The main discussion points will focus on the theme of “Sustaining Nigeria's position on the African Business Aviation Landscape.” Discussions will incorporate changes in the business aviation sector within the national context of Nigeria, as well as the effects of regional, African and international development on the Nigerian business aviation sector.

New formats and themes will bring together a diverse range of topics. In a first for NBAC an opening panel will bring together international CAAs to discuss the creation and implementation of regulations and how these can be applied to Nigeria.  The effects of reduced crude oil prices will be debated by a panel representing the full spectrum of business aviation; whilst a rotary panel will discuss the importance of linking helicopters and executive aviation to support the hydrocarbon industry in Nigeria and further afield.

The last NBAC event brought together over 200 international and African delegates and it is anticipated that NBAC 2016 will once again attract HNWIs, OEMs, operators, financiers, lawyers, regulatory bodies and industry leaders.

Air Transport Employees march to Nigeria CAA

…rejects Dana Air’s proposed regional ops  from MMA 2

The air transport employees under the aegis of National Union of Air Transport Employees, NUATE conducted a solidarity rally to the operational Headquarters of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA in Lagos where it tabled concerned issues.

According to a statement from the  agency signed by  the General Manager Public Relations of the agency, Samuel Adurogboye, “Leading  the rally was the Deputy President of NUATE, Comrade Williams Ukah who listed issues of Training for Technical Staff, Autonomy,  Staff Claims, Airlines Indebtedness to NCAA  and the DANA Airlines request to commence a Regional Flight Operations from the Murtala Mohammed Airport 2 , MMA2.

The Unions urged the Authority not to accede to DANA request to operate a Regional Flight from the MMA2 so as not to incur the wrath of labour in the sector. The Unions hinged their position  on the ground that the request negate Aviation Security at the Terminal  and the agreement between the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN and the operator of the Terminal.”

The union however applauded the Authority over  the amicable resolution of the issue of staff promotions and prompt payment of staff salaries and other emoluments at this time of the year.

Meanwhile, the  Director of Finance and Accounts, Alhaji Nuhu Ozigi on behalf of the Director General, Capt Usman Muhtar addressed the Unions and also received a letter addressed to the DG which was thereafter presented to the DG for management review.

Responding to some of the issues raised by the body, Ozigi stated that, as a regulatory body, issue of staff training and re-training (local or foreign) is  of utmost priority. But in compliance with budgetary regulatory policy of the Federal Government, foreign trainings for technical staff needs approval from the Head of Service of Federation through the Ministry and that the approval processes are ongoing.

He promised that the management would look into the issue of DANA request critically before taking a decision on it.

He however noted that some  technical staff from the critical sections of NCAA  are  currently at  the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, NCAT undergoing various relevant local trainings in line with International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) recommendations.

He also  disclosed that, while pensions and gratuities are not owed to any staff, modalities have been fashioned out on how to liquidate pending staff claims on a monthly basis, even though it might seem to be going fairly slowly.

On Airlines indebtedness in the face of government’s policy of,"debt recovery without disruption of flight operations", he said that NCAA has put in place an  aggressive and concerted efforts at debt recovery, more particularly, by local airlines.

  On Autonomy, Ozigi was of the view that  NCAA is not restricted in its regulatory oversight responsibilities in any way.

Foreign airlines seek sustainable aviation growth in Nigeria.

  Kingsley Nwokoma, AFARN President

To enhance safety standards and policies in the country’s aviation, the Association of Foreign Airlines Representatives in Nigeria AFARN is to collaborate with stakeholders in the country.

Exchanging views with aviation correspondents in his office at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Ikeja, on the 3rd Safety Summit,the president of AFARN, Mr Kingsley Nwokoma said the need to foster improved global operating standards in the country can not be over emphasised.
Nwokoma explained that since safety formed the bedrock of aviation there was need for stakeholders to collaborate in view of recent security development in the world in order to maintain safer skies.

"Aviation is something that everybody should come together to grow it and we will all be proud of it. There are so many units that make up the industry and collaboration is the key to move the industry forward, we want performance but we must drive safety with it "

According to Nwokoma, various issues in the aviation sector, such as safe skies, airport reforms among others have been slated for discuss at this years safety summit with its theme, 'collaboration for sustainable aviation in Nigeria, through safety to performance'

Nwokoma decried the poor state of Port Harcourt International Airport hence it attracted world wide condemnation "If MMIA and PHIA are in this way, what will be of all the other airports in the country. Port Harcourt is crazy because it's a tent. That means there is a problem"

He called on the government to address the challenges facing the aviation sector in the country in order to improve the standard of the sector.

Gulfstream's G650 and G650ER three years of flying

Since entering service three years ago this month, Gulfstream Aerospace’s flagship G650 fleet is nearing the 150 aircraft milestone. Some 145 of the ultra-long-range business jets—105 G650s and 40 G650ERs—are currently flying, according to the Savannah, Ga.-based aircraft manufacturer.

To date, the G650 fleet has logged more than 78,000 hours and 29,000 cycles, a company spokeswoman told AIN. Overall, the twinjet’s NBAA dispatch reliability rate is 99.7 percent, she added.

The G650 and G650ER are the longest-legged purpose-built business jets currently on the market at 7,000 nm and 7,500 nm, respectively, and they are likely to remain unchallenged until Bombardier fields its 7,400-nm Global 7000 and 7,900-nm Global 8000 later this decade. “It’s amazing that the G650 has had the market to itself for this long,” JetNet iQ managing director Rolland Vincent told AIN. “And with the recently announced delays in the Global programs, it will do so for at least another three years.”

The G650 received the 2014 Robert J. Collier Trophy and has accumulated nearly 60 speed records. The latter includes a G650 that set a westbound around-the-world speed record of 41 hours and 7 minutes, during which the airplane traveled 8,010 miles nonstop and circumnavigated the globe in one stop.

NAMA MD CHARGES AIRSPACE MANAGERS ON SAFETY

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam has tasked Airspace Managers across Nigerian airports to embark  on measures to strengthen Air Traffic Management and surveillance systems in their respective domains to ensure maximum operational safety as the nation gradually winds down to Christmas and New Year celebrations. Engr. Abdulsalam who gave this charge at the recently concluded Airspace Managers’ Forum which held at Asaa Pyramid Hotels, Kaduna maintained that the need for extra vigilance at this time became inevitable because of the usual upsurge in traffic and the increased tempo of airport activities that come with the yuletide season. According to the NAMA boss, “we must do our level best to build upon the present gains we have achieved in maintaining safety of air navigation in the country and zero tolerance for aviation incidents. In doing this, it calls for synergy and collaboration among airspace managers and I believe this forum will provide the opportunity to compare notes and do the needed peer review which will put all operations nationwide on the same page.”  Abdulsalam also noted that “recent effort by management to digitalize air traffic management services in the country by way of deployment of Digital Safe Towers across the four major airports as well as the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract/Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) are targeted at ensuring that the nation’s airspace conforms to global safety standards and also bring about efficiency in service delivery.”  He therefore called on airspace managers to imbibe the culture of “collaborative engagement that would engender the needed peer review and enhanced safety.” Earlier in an address, the Chairman of the forum Port Harcourt Airspace Manager, Mr Gabriel Akpen expressed confidence that the forum would afford members the opportunity to engage one another and build strategies for collective growth, stressing that “current operating times call for renewed efforts to shore up performance and manage air traffic more efficiently than ever.” The Director of Administration, Dr Saleh Ibrahim, in his remarks enjoined airspace managers to be more security conscious just as he called for renewed vigilance around navigational aids. Also speaking, the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Airport Manager in Kaduna, Mr. Garba Usman harped on the need for “collaboration and inclusiveness in service provision among aviation agencies,” adding that constructive engagement rather than inter-agency squabbles is required to take Nigerian aviation to the next level. The well attended forum attracted representatives from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), State Security Services (SSS) and Arik Airlines. In a communique at the end of the forum, the Airspace Managers inter alia, appreciated NAMA on the successful deployment of ADS-C/CPDLC in Lagos and Kano Area Control Centres (ACCs) just as they called for the review of contractual agreements and MOUs between state governments and private individuals. They also beseeched management to organize workshops and seminars that would enable Airspace managers acquire more leadership and managerial skills.

AIB to amend 2006 Operational Rules, calls on stakeholders' input

Accident Investigation Bureau, AIB, is set to review the existing Civil Aviation Investigation of Air Accidents and Incidents Regulations 2006, in order to conform to the updated International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, Standards and Recommended Practices, SARPS.
The Bureau also said that the review became necessary in a bid for its policy to be in tandem with its counterparts around the world. The draft document, which is now in the status of notice of proposed rule to the industry is already on the Burea's website.
Statement issued in Lagos by the Bureu's spokesperson, Mr. Tunji Oketunbi hinted that since the current policy, which was promulgated in November 2006 came into operations, there had been series of amendments to accident and incident investigation by ICAO, especially to the Annex 13 of the convention.
Oketunbi said that AIB as one of the leading globally recognised aviation investigators, it could not operate in isolation of global standards and recommended practices.
Oketunbi in the statement quoted the AIB Legal Adviser,Mrs. Maureen Tsenongo as saying that the management had noticed some gaps in the current regulations, which the new one would seek to address.
Said Tsenongo 'All relevant aviation stakeholders like airline operators, professionals, unions, oil companies operating within the sector, individuals with key interest in aviation, Non-Governmental Organisations, NGOs, and the general public are requested to come forward with their valuable contributions on the proposed amendment.'
She continued: 'Their contributions, which should be forwarded to the Commissioner of AIB and other management staff should reach the Bureau within 30 days. Interested parties can also visit the bureau’s website: aib.gov.ng for necessary information and updates.'
The statement said, “We are doing this in conformity with our regulation 22, which reads in part, ‘These regulations shall be amended from time to time to bring them into conformity with the provisions of ICAO Annex 13, any amendment thereto and the Civil Aviation Act.’”

SAHCOL HIRES RIZWAN KADRI AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Rizwan Kadri 

The Skyway Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) has appointed Rizwan Kadri as its Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Rizwan Kadri, who is a Senior Aviation Ground/Airport Operations Executive and I.A.T.A Certified Aviation Management Professional (AvMP) brings with him substantial broad-based expertise in International Aviation Ground and Airport Operations, as well as significant leadership experience.

Mr Rizwan Kadri, a graduate of Science from the Mumbai University, India, also holds an Executive M.B.A in Aviation and Quality Systems Management, from the National Institute of Business Management, India. He has attended many aviation courses, amongst which includes; IATA Station Management, IATA Station and Ground Handling Management, Airport Management, Corporate Leadership Challenge Course, Dangerous Goods Handling (DGR), Ramp Handling, Basic Cargo and Baggage Service Skills, Weight and Balance (Load Control) and many more aviation courses over the years.

Rizwan Kadri, with over 25 years of extensive international experience in Aviation Management, is an expert motivator who has demonstrated an excellent track record in leading large teams, with well developed management competencies.

Prior to this appointment, Mr Kadri has worked as a Freelance Aviation Consultant and IATA Certified Aviation Management Professional; Director of Operations and Accountable Manager-IAA Flying Academy; Director of Operations - Indian Aviation Academy; Airport Manager-Qatar Airways, Mumbai Airport; Station Manager-Kenya Airways, Mumbai Airport; Standard and Procedures Officer - Emirates Airlines, Dubai-UAE; Traffic Officer- Kuwait Airways, Mumbai-India.

With this appointment, SAHCOL signals its intent to become a leader in the African Ground Handling Market, while building a staff and management team with experience that spans industry circles, as a result building structure of trust and excellent service to its growing list of clientele.

Nigerian Aviation on global limelight- By Yakubu Dati

(R-L) Senator Hadi Sirika, Minister of State Aviation and Dr. O.B. Aliu ICAO President
at the just concluded World Aviation Forum in Montreal Canada 

                      

"May I invite to the podium, Senator Hadi Abubakar Sirika, Minister of State, Aviation, Nigeria!"

As he stepped onto the podium amidst thunderous applause from an audience of aviation professionals drawn from over 100 countries, his steps exuded confidence of a man at home on a familiar terrain.

The occasion is the International Civil Aviation Organisation  (ICAO) World Aviation Forum at Montreal Canada.

As he engaged his captivated audience on the topic "How safe and reliable air transport delivers important economic benefits to States", it became clearer that Nigeria is taking its rightful place as the centrepoint of  aviation in Africa.

Hear him  "Nigeria, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, will continue to upgrade and develop aviation infrastructure to improve aviation Safety and Security, thus creating an enabling environment for growth of airlines and other service providers, as well as protecting the interest of aviation end-users".

His colleagues from Canada, Colombia as well as major stakeholders from China, Europe and America formed part of a global audience of aviation enthusiasts who were treated to rich and coherent symbiotic relationship of sustainable economies and sustainable aviation.

Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu, the President of the Council of ICAO, himself a Nigerian, could not have been happier. He is serving out his tenure as the first African to occupy that office.

Hadi Sirika did not find himself on the global scene by accident.

A retired pilot and aeronautic engineer with diverse experience in the aviation industry, Senator Hadi Sirika  is a graduate of Petroleum Helicopters Institute, Flight Safety International and Delta Aeronautics all in the United States of America.  While in active service, Sirika succumbed to pressure from his people and was subsequently elected into Federal House of Representatives to represent Dutsi/Mashi Federal Constituency in Katsina State from 2003 – 2007. During this period, he was the Vice Chairman, House Committee on Aviation and his diverse experience in the aviation industry was extremely beneficial to the committee during oversight functions. Most significantly, his in-depth contributions and understanding of the industry aided in the smooth passage of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Agency Autonomous bill in 2006. Following this remarkable stint, he was again drafted and elected as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria  representing Katsina North Senatorial district from 2011 to 2015. He distinguished himself  as Member Senate Committee on Aviation and Vice Chairman, Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) where he deeper his skills in governance.

The appointment of this aviator to drive the vision of President  Muhammadu Buhari administration was an answered prayer for aviation stakeholders who craved for one of their own. A perfect fit for a round peg in a round hole.

As he stepped off the podium to a standing ovation, Sen Hadi Sirika who is barely 10 days in office as Minister of State, Aviation was not done yet. Like James Bond in James Hardly Chase's epic thriller,  he left a parting shot for the President of ICAO, Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu. "Nigeria will support you for another term as President of ICAO!".

Yakubu Dati is the General Manager, 

Corporate Affairs in Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN

A man died aboard Arik’s flight

…FAAN AVSEC arrests attempted stowaway

According to Arik Air, “A middle-aged man aboard Arik Air’s Owerri-Lagos flight was this afternoon confirmed dead by doctors on arrival at the Lagos Airport.

The passenger boarded the flight from Owerri in the company of a relative. He started showing signs of uneasiness midway into the flight.

The body of the man has been deposited in the mortuary by the Police while investigation into the immediate cause of death is ongoing.”

Meanwhile, what would have been another beat at the Nigeria airport security activities was botched when a man attempting stowaway was apprehended. According Mr. Yakubu Dati, General Manager Corporate Affairs of FAAN, “ Aviation Security staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, today, December 2, 2015, apprehended a man, Mr. Alabibu Olushola, who was attempting to stow away in a taxing aircraft on the tarmac of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.

The culprit was arrested as soon as he scaled the perimeter fence near the moving aircraft and after interrogation by the Avsec staff, he was immediately handed over to the police for further interrogation.”

The Authority wishes to remind members of the public that access to restricted areas of the airport, including the tarmac and perimeter roads, is prohibited for unauthorized people, including airport staff, who have no business being there. This is more so in view of the present security situation in the country.The Authority will henceforth not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any person, including unauthorized airport staff, who is found loitering around restricted areas of all our airports.

Crashes reports are available on our website-AIB

The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) in response to the allegations of the Senate that it is shielding the crashes reports from the public has come out to say that the reports are available on its website for public consumption.

According to a statement from the Bureau read in part, “ AIB is saddened by this unjustified vilification of the Bureau on the floor of the senate as the allegation was mostly incorrect. The Senate was misinformed. As at the time the debate was going on in the Senate the reports referred to were on the Bureau's web site (aib.gov.ng) and just a click away from any interested member of the public.

For record purpose, Sosoliso Accident report, which had been released since 2006 and published  in the national newspapers has been on the Bureau's website for several years now. Bellview and ADC crash reports have been published and on our website since 2012 while DANA's preliminary report has been published since July 2012. Other outstanding accident reports are being diligently pursued.”

A little research including a check on our website or the aviation committee of the Senate would have made this debate unnecessary. Happily, the Senate Committee on Aviation is aware of the diligence and the passion with which AIB has been pursuing the delivery of its mandate. The committee is also not unaware of the challenges facing the Bureau, especially with funding.

It is, however pertinent to let the public be aware that aircraft accident investigation, contrary to public expectation may takes a little time as it is a complex and thorough exercise. The purpose of accident investigation is to determine facts relating to an accident and prevent future reoccurrence of similar occurrence by making safety recommendations. This demands thoroughness and leaves no room for assumption.”

Owing to the success of some investigation conducted AIB explained that some of the investigations conducted  have led to significant safety improvements in the global aviation community. Examples of these are two Alert Service Bulletins by Sikorsky, a helicopter manufacturer following our preliminary investigations into the recent Bristow crash in Oworonshoki, Lagos and a Mandatory Service Bulletin by Diamond Aircraft Manufacturer on  a serious incident involving Diamond  DA 42 with registration number 5N-BKS that occurred in Benin in July 2012. These have contributed to preventing further accidents of similar nature and the attendant loss of lives.

Despite the constraints and challenges, AIB is making its modest contributions to air safety improvements and accident prevention locally and globally.

Also, it is statutory for AIB to publish accident reports and so cannot keep it from the public. We appeal to members of the public to always avail themselves of the channels of communication that AIB has provided for the purpose of dissemination or accessing information. Our 24-hour hotlines include +234(0)8077090928

Nigeria's airport authority staff nominated into Board of Directors of ACI

Kabiru Mohammed, a staff of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria  (FAAN) has been selected as a candidate of the Board of Directors of the Community of Practice (CoP) of the Airport Council International.

According Yakubu Dati, General Manager Corporate Affairs of FAAN, “This was stated by the Nominating Committee of the International Airport Professional, Community of  Practice  (IAP CoP) in a letter dated November 24, 2015 from its office in Montreal, Canada.

According to the letter " the Nominating Committee made it's selection based on each candidate's unique qualification for board duty ... as required in the CoP by-laws.

The vision of the International Airport Professional, Community of  Practice  (IAP CoP) is to be the premier global platform where IAPs advance the practice of airport management through  interdisciplinary networking and developing best practices of airport businesses for the benefit of the aviation industry. “

Dati explained that by this nomination, Kabiru Mohammed will not only be advancing his own knowledge and networking  capability, he would also be creating opportunities to enhance the practice and profession of airport management on a global level.

An AMPAP graduate of the Airport Council International program for airport professionals, Mohammed will facilitate networking, collaboration and shared experiences of world-class experts at a global level.

Kabiru Mohammed who is a Deputy General Manager at the office of the  MD/CEO is one of the few internationally.

Nigeria’s SkyJet Aviation gets more territories from Viking

Proven its credibility and responsibility, Nigeria’s SkyJet Aviation Services Limited has been given more territories to cover in the Northern Africa. According to a statement from Viking signed by the Director of International Marketing of the organization, David Heath, “Viking Air Limited of Victoria, British Columbia, has added Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia to SkyJet Aviation Services Limited’s regional sales territory for the Twin Otter Series 400 aircraft. SkyJet Aviation Services will now be responsible for the three North African countries in addition to their existing representation of the Viking Series 400 Twin Otter in sub-Sahara Africa, Libya, Egypt, the Seychelles, and the Caribbean.”

Given SkyJet’s professionalism, Viking said SkyJet has established itself as a premiere sales organization with a knowledgeable and experienced team of aviation professionals. SkyJet’s extensive hands-on experience with a wide variety of twin engine and turbine aircraft will be an added benefit to new customers of the Twin Otter Series 400 in the three North African countries.

Responding to the new responsibilities, the Director of Sales of SkyJet Aviation, Bruce Fullerton, “We are well versed in the Twin Otter’s capabilities, and are already well established in Africa, so the addition of Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia to our Twin Otter Series 400 representation territory is a natural fit.”

SkyJet Aviation Services is founded by Dr. Kashim Shettima and headquartered in Kaduna, Nigeria, with satellite offices in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, and Miami, Florida, SkyJet Aviation Services has established itself as a leader in business aviation sales and services throughout the African sub region. With current Aircraft Operating Certificate for commercial charter operations and an Approved Maintenance Organization, SkyJet is recognized as a reputable firm with a diverse background in all aspects of the aviation industry.

The Series 400 Twin Otter is the best-selling next generation turbo-prop aircraft in its class, with Viking aircraft sold and delivered to 28 countries worldwide. Viking provides OEM support for the global fleet of de Havilland legacy aircraft (DHC-1 through DHC-7) and forms part of Westerkirk Capital Inc, a Canadian private investment firm with substantial holdings in the hospitality, aviation, and real estate sectors.

FG to review aviation policy ... Minister

… Supports ICAO President for another tenure.

R-L: Minister of State(Aviation) Sen. Hadi Sirika and ICAO President, Dr. O.B Aliu in Canada

The Civil Aviation Policy would be reviewed in order to accommodate the planned policies of this government which would include a Master Plan to reform institutions, airports (domestic and international hubs) and national airlines, to provide domestic and international services.

According to an online statement from Yakubu Dati, GM Corporate Affairs FAAN, ‘The Minister of State, Aviation, Sen Hadi Sirika stated this during the  ICAO 2015 World  Aviation Forum holding in Montreal, Canada, 23 - 25 November 2015.’

According to the Minister, "Nigeria, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, will continue to upgrade and develop aviation infrastructure to improve aviation safety and security, thus creating an enabling environment for growth of airlines and other service providers, as well as protecting the interest of aviation end-users.”

In a keynote address, the ICAO President, Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu said it was a key goal for the  organization to assist member States to the fullest extent,  possible with respect to the implementation of ICAO standards and policies.

He added  "Only in this way can we ensure that 'No Country is Left Behind' and optimize the socio-economic benefits which derive from safe, secure, and reliable air transport in Africa, fully in line with local needs and expectations."

The Canadian Minister of Transport,  Marc Garneau welcomed delegates and solicited greater collaboration and understanding among nations and peoples of the world.

Several speakers including the Colombian Minster of Transport, the Secretary General of World Tourism Organization  (UNWTO), DG of the European Commission as well as China and the US emphasized the connection between the effective implementation of global aviation standards and policies and the social and economic benefits.

The high powered Nigerian delegation led by the  Minister of State, Aviation included the Canadian Acting Ambassador, Ja'afar Mohammed Balarabe, Directors from the Ministry of Aviation and CEOs of aviation parastatals who provided technical support.

The Forum drew participants from 99 countries on its first day.

 

Minister of State(Aviation) Sen. Hadi Sirika and ICAO President, Dr. O.B Aliu  with aviation agencies' CEOs in  Canada

Also, the Federal Government will support Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu,  President of ICAO for another term in office.

Sen. Hadi Sirika, the Minister of State, Aviation stated this at the ICAO headquarters in Montreal on November, 2015 while on a visit to the President-in-council.

According to him, Dr Aliu had nurtured the organisation in its role of being an enabler for the development of international civil aviation,  thereby enhancing  friendship and understanding among nations and Peoples of the world.

He cited some of Aliu’s his laudable projects such as the 'No Country is Left Behind" policy, aimed at providing more direct assistance to States, especially developing countries.

He promised to leverage on the office of the President-in-council to deepen development in the country’s aviation industry.

The Minister who was accompanied by the Acting Nigerian Ambassador to Canada, Balarabe Ja'afar Mohammed and top echelon of Nigerian aviation also urged Dr Aliu to continue to take his job in the organisation as a worthy ambassador.

In his response, Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu congratulated Sen Hadi Sirika on his appointment and expressed confidence that he would bring his experience as an aviation expert, to bear on his office.

He called for the upgrading of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology  (NCAT), Zaria, into a regional institution in the African sub region, promising to support such initiative.

It would be recalled that the ICAO President in Council, Dr Aliu assumed leadership of this global aviation body on  Nov 13, 2013, as the first African to head this global body with membership of almost 200 countries.

The Minister of State also visited the Nigeria office at ICAO headquarters where he was received by the representative of Nigeria on ICAO council, Mr Martins Nwafor.