Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, Prof Okonkwo and the FAAN M D, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku
A high-level meeting between United Nigeria Airlines and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has paved the way for strengthened collaboration and improved aviation safety.
The meeting, held at FAAN Headquarters in Lagos, brought together United Nigeria Airlines’ Chairman, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, and FAAN’s Managing Director/CEO, Olubumi Kuku, to discuss key issues affecting the industry.
Prof. Okonkwo highlighted the pressing concerns of bird strikes, limited airport operating hours, and unruly passenger behaviour, which have been causing operational and financial challenges for airlines.
He noted that bird strikes have been a major issue, causing significant damage to aircraft and disrupting flight schedules.
He also emphasized the need for extended airport operating hours, particularly at sunrise and sunset airports, to accommodate increasing flight demands.
The Chairman also requested land allocation for the development of a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Abuja, which would enhance local aircraft maintenance capacity and reduce reliance on foreign MRO providers.
FAAN’s MD/CEO, Olubunmi Kuku, in turn, emphasized the importance of collaboration in improving safety and efficiency.
She announced plans to upgrade airfield lighting at Category II airports, improve apron and lighting at Benin airport, and strengthen corporate responsibility around airport environments.
Kuku also assured that FAAN has identified major causes of bird strikes and is implementing environmental measures, including improved grass and habitat management, to mitigate the issue.
The meeting also discussed stricter enforcement against unruly passengers, with FAAN pledging to take a tough stance on passengers who compromise safety and security.
Kuku expressed FAAN’s willingness to review the proposed Abuja MRO land request, with a view to fast-tracking the allocation and supporting the growth of local aircraft maintenance capacity.
United Nigeria Airlines’ Executive Director/COO, Osita Okonkwo, stressed the need for sustained cooperation between airlines and airport authorities for safe and efficient industry growth.
“The meeting was a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing our industry,” he said. “We look forward to continued collaboration with FAAN to enhance safety, efficiency, and overall growth of the aviation sector.”
The meeting was attended by other senior officials from United Nigeria Airlines, including Linus Awute, Director of Administration; Capt. Ahmad Mahmoud, Director of Flight Operations; Raphael Uchegbu, Chief Commercial Officer; and Kelechi Violet Asuquo, Director Human Resources, among others.
