Nigeria’s airspace systems not obsolete — NAAE tackles NATCA

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By Nnasom David

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The National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE) has rejected claims by the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) over proposed nationwide flow control and concerns about fatigue, ageing systems, and manpower shortages in Nigeria’s airspace management.

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In a statement dated April 13, the association said the claims did not accurately reflect the current operational realities within the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), stressing the need for a balanced and factual assessment of the sector.

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“While we acknowledge the indispensable role of Air Traffic Controllers in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air navigation services, it is necessary to present a balanced, factual perspective to avoid misrepresentation of the prevailing operational realities within NAMA,” the statement said.

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NAAE maintained that NAMA has made significant progress in upgrading infrastructure and strengthening operations.

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“Contrary to the claim of widespread obsolete infrastructure, NAMA has, in recent years, implemented significant upgrades to critical Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management systems,” it stated.

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The association highlighted ongoing efforts, including the overhaul of the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the deployment of Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) technology.

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“In a move to keep the radar system functional, the process of deploying ADS-B has commenced to support the ageing national surveillance infrastructure, while efforts are ongoing through Presidential intervention to replace the ageing TRACON system,” it added.

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NAAE also pointed to broader infrastructure improvements.
“There has been progressive upgrade and modernization of control towers at key airports nationwide, alongside continuous improvement of navigational aids and communications networks to enhance reliability and operational continuity,” the statement said.

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On manpower, the association said NAMA has taken deliberate steps to address workforce challenges.

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“The recruitment of new personnel and the re-engagement of approximately 95 per cent of retired controllers on contract basis directly counters the narrative of widespread manpower fatigue,” it stated.

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NAAE also referenced welfare improvements, noting that, “NAMA has implemented a recent upward review of remuneration packages, while a comprehensive review of the Conditions of Service is currently underway.”

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On the issue of flow control, the association cautioned against generalisation.

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“While flow control is a recognized operational tool in global air traffic management, its proposed nationwide application must be evaluated within proper operational context,” it said.

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It added that, “existing CNS systems, supported by ongoing modernization and maintenance efforts, are capable of supporting safe operations within Nigeria’s airspace.”

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The association called for collaboration among stakeholders, warning against public disagreements.

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“Concerns relating to welfare, infrastructure, and operations are best addressed through constructive dialogue rather than public narratives that may inadvertently undermine confidence in the aviation sector,” it stated.

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NAAE further dismissed NATCA’s claims.

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“In our opinion, the issues raised are uncalled for as they do not fully reflect the substantial progress and ongoing efforts by NAMA management,” the statement said, urging stakeholders to adopt “a collaborative, solution-oriented approach to sustain aviation safety and operational excellence.”

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