Acquire New Aircrafts to boost Aviation-NCAA

The Director-General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt Musa Nuhu and the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema have described the acquisition of newer airplanes by indigenous carriers as a huge cost saving measure that would help boost the aviation sector.

Besides saving huge costs on fueling and maintenance, they said such airplanes were safe for the environment and aviation ecosystem.

The Duo spoke in Abuja during the delivery of a new aircraft to Air Peace.

While commending the airline for its acquisition of brand new aircraft, NCAA urged others to follow suit as it would develop the industry.

Chairman of Air Peace, Chief Allen  who was on ground with members and executives of Airline Operators of Nigeria ( AON)  said the aircraft was  bought to further improve safety, save huge cost on aviation fuel and other  operational cost.

Onyema said: “From 2018 we made a commitment to acquire brand new aircraft to replace our fleet. I am not saying old aircraft is unsafe but because of the economics of the game. The Embraer will save fuel and reduce operational cost. It’s not about age, it’s about maintenance but a brand new aircraft takes safety to a new level.”

He said the aircraft was thoroughly thought out because it was bigger than the Boeing 737 but had a technology so advanced it can land and take off on the shortest of runways.

Capt Nuhu commended the airline and stressed that Air Peace was not just procuring new aircraft but appropriate aircraft for operations.

He said: “It gladdens my heart that Nigerian airlines are not only getting new aircraft but are getting the right aircraft. The connectivity in Nigeria has improved and it’s getting better. These new aircraft have low maintenance and operational costs and are environmental friendly.

“This is the way to go. I believe with time, Air Peace will change all its fleet to newer ones.

“Pre-covid, 10 to 12 million passengers passed through the country’s airports, which amounts to 10 per cent of the country’s population. Airlines need to connect different parts of the country for trade, thereby contributing to the country’s GDP. The airline industry is growing and those surviving are expanding their fleet.”

Nation/Hauwa Abu