Committee to engage FAAN, NAMA, NCAA and Safety Investigation Bureau, submit report within two weeks
The Nigerian Senate has directed its relevant committee to engage key aviation agencies over concerns that VIP movements and other security-related operations at airports could pose risks to aviation safety.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Isah Jibrin, who raised concerns over reports that commercial aircraft are sometimes kept airborne for extended periods while awaiting clearance to land.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Jibrin observed that commercial flights scheduled to land at some Nigerian airports are occasionally forced to remain in the air for prolonged periods, reportedly exceeding one hour, because landing operations are suspended to accommodate VIP movements.
He also noted that some international flights have reportedly been diverted to alternative airports within the country when access to their intended destinations is temporarily restricted.
While acknowledging the security considerations surrounding VIP movements, the senator warned that such operations must not compromise aviation safety.
He expressed concern that prolonged airborne holding could increase fuel consumption, deplete aircraft operational reserves and expose flights to additional risks, including adverse weather conditions, air traffic congestion, diversion challenges and crew duty-time limitations.
To address the concerns, the Senate mandated its relevant committee to engage the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau.
The committee is expected to conclude its engagement with the agencies and submit its report to the Senate within two weeks.