Senate Targets Airlines Operating Extensive Routes With Limited Aircraft Fleet
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Fatai Buhari, announced that the Senate is working on a new bill aimed at regulating airline operations in Nigeria. The bill seeks to reduce the number of routes serviced by airlines that operate with fewer than four aircraft. Senator Buhari made this statement at the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit 2024 in Lagos, organized by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) under the theme, “Repositioning the Nigeria Aviation Industry for Financial Capability and Economic Viability.”
The bill, which has faced opposition from some operators, is being promoted as a measure in the interest of the flying public. Senator Buhari emphasized that Nigerian airlines must adopt the global practice of code-sharing, which he believes would improve passengers’ experiences and ensure better efficiency in the industry. He expressed hope that the bill would pass, stressing that airlines with fewer aircraft should be restricted to specific routes, thereby improving overall service quality.
In addition to legislative efforts, industry stakeholders have called for a comprehensive overhaul of aviation policies to facilitate the sector’s growth. Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, Executive Director of the Alternative Bank, highlighted the negative impact of inconsistent policies on the sector’s development and advocated for the creation of an Aviation Development Fund. This fund would focus on infrastructure development, safety measures, and capacity building for the industry. Ozoemene also stressed the importance of public-private partnerships to encourage private sector investment in airport infrastructure and other critical aviation services.
Former U.S. Transportation Security Administration Attaché to West Africa, Oluseyi Ogunleye, emphasized the pivotal role of the NCAA in leveraging global aviation opportunities to drive Nigeria’s economic growth. He called for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address the industry’s challenges, urging that a shared commitment to progress could unlock the sector’s full potential. Ogunleye encouraged the Nigerian government and the aviation sector to work together toward a transformative future, focused on sustainable growth and excellence.
This summit underscores the need for strategic policy interventions and collaboration to ensure the financial viability and future success of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
