Thelma Osatohanmwen
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has taken steps to enhance safety and security within the country’s aviation sector.
The minister initiated moves to blacklist negligent airline regulators at all levels as part of a broader effort to ensure the well-being of air travelers.
It was gathered that this decision comes in response to recent incidents, including a flight diversion where a United Nigeria Airlines plane landed in Asaba International Airport instead of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Keyamo issued a directive requiring all wet leases entering the country to include Nigerian pilots and cabin crew, addressing concerns related to unfamiliarity with Nigerian terrain and communication issues arising from the use of foreign pilots and crew.
During a press briefing after a technical meeting with key aviation heads, Keyamo emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of people traveling by air. He instructed the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to provide a comprehensive report on air accidents and their causes within 10 days.
The minister also addressed flight cancellations and delays, expressing awareness of passengers’ concerns. He mentioned the enforcement of laws for compensating passengers affected by flight cancellations and delays.
Additionally, a committee was set up to explore options for compensation or rebates for affected passengers, emphasizing the need for passengers’ satisfaction and safety.
Keyamo directed the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ensure a weekly catalog of canceled flights to enhance transparency and accountability in the aviation sector.