As the rainy season approaches, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called for caution and heightened vigilance from all stakeholders in the aviation industry.
Chris Najomo, the Director General of NCAA, has highlighted the increased risk of severe weather conditions such as thunderstorms, microbursts, low-level wind shear, and heavy rain during this period, posing potential dangers to air travel safety.
He said: ”The rainy season varies across different regions of Nigeria, starting in March in the south and coastal zones, April/May in central parts, and June/July in the northern areas.
”To ensure passenger safety, the NCAA has outlined specific pre-flight actions and responsibilities for various aviation industry stakeholders.
”Air Traffic Controllers are tasked with temporarily closing airspace when hazardous weather conditions are observed or forecasted.
”Pilots and operators must adhere to aerodrome weather minima, exercise maximum restraint in adverse weather conditions, and obtain adequate weather information and briefing before flight operations.
”Air Navigation Service Providers, including NiMet and NAMA, are responsible for providing flight crew briefings, aeronautical information, and NOTAMs.”
The NCAA emphasized the importance of proper training for pilots to manage situations arising from severe weather effectively.
”Passengers are encouraged to exercise patience and understanding, as flight delays and cancellations may occur during the rainy season, to prioritize safety.
”Strict adherence to safety regulations is mandatory, with potential consequences for non-compliance.
”By working together and prioritizing safety, the aviation industry can navigate the challenges of severe weather conditions during the rainy season,” the agency noted.
In a related development, the NCAA has issued a stern warning to foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, threatening to impose sanctions on those that fail to comply with the directive to release low-inventory tickets within a specified timeframe.
Foreign airlines committed to improving transparency by releasing low-inventory tickets, responding to the federal government’s move to release part of the $700 million trapped air ticket funds to foreign carriers.
Despite the commitment, it has been reported that not all foreign airlines have fully complied with the directive.
