The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has initiated the process for the commencement of commercial operations at the Gateway International Airport in Ogun State, Nigeria. This crucial step began with flight checks conducted by NAMA officials to validate the proposed operational procedures for the airport. The checks, focusing on aligning the airport’s infrastructure and operations with established aviation standards, mark a significant milestone towards the airport’s official opening. The initial assessment by NAMA officials has been positive, with particular praise given to the airport’s impressive infrastructure, including its four-kilometer runway, the longest in Nigeria, and its modern terminal building.
The flight checks involved a thorough review and in-air validation of the proposed procedures. NAMA’s team, led by the Manager of Flight Calibration Services, Miri Selzing, meticulously examined the predefined processes, performing practical tests in the air to confirm their efficacy and suitability for the airport’s layout and operational requirements. Following the on-site assessment, the gathered data will be analyzed at NAMA’s base, leading to recommendations and potential modifications to optimize the procedures further. This rigorous process ensures that the airport’s operations meet the highest safety and efficiency standards.
Beyond the procedural validation, NAMA officials also assessed the airport’s physical infrastructure. The four-kilometer runway received particular commendation for its length and capacity to accommodate various aircraft types, including large commercial jets. This significant runway length positions the airport as a potential diversion point for flights headed to Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin, enhancing regional air traffic management. The modern terminal building also received positive feedback, further solidifying the airport’s readiness for commercial operations.
While praising the Ogun State government for its rapid development of the airport, NAMA emphasized the importance of installing key navigational aids, such as an Instrument Landing System (ILS). The ILS is a crucial piece of equipment that guides aircraft during approach and landing, especially in low visibility conditions, further enhancing safety and operational reliability. The installation of this and other navigational instruments will be essential for the airport to handle a wider range of flight operations and weather conditions.
With the initial flight checks complete, the next step involves developing the validated procedures and making them readily available online. This accessibility will ensure that airlines and other stakeholders have easy access to the necessary information for smooth and efficient operations at the airport. The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, highlighted the importance of this step, stating that it is one of the final requirements for securing commercial approval for the airport.
According to the Works Commissioner, the Gateway International Airport is nearing completion, with an estimated 97% of the project finished. Essential facilities, including the control tower, air traffic control officers, firefighters, and other required personnel and equipment, are already in place. While acknowledging that airport development is a continuous process, the Commissioner emphasized the airport’s high level of preparedness for commercial operation. The completion of the flight checks and subsequent publication of the validated procedures signify a significant stride towards the airport’s official opening, marking a new chapter for air travel in Ogun State and Nigeria.
