The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in collaboration with key stakeholders in the aviation industry, has announced an extension of operational hours at sunset airports to 10 PM.
This decision aims to reduce the frequency of flight disruptions and cancellations, particularly at airports without 24-hour operational facilities.
Sunset airports, which typically operate between 7 AM and 7 PM due to the absence of night flying equipment and proper lighting, will now function for an additional three hours, provided they have the necessary infrastructure. The measure was introduced to address the challenges posed by flight delays, which often result in cancellations when destination airports lack 24-hour operational capabilities.
The announcement came following a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the NCAA at its Annex in Lagos to tackle the increasing rate of flight disruptions.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), and Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), led by Vice-President Allen Onyema, who also serves as the CEO of Air Peace.
In the communique issued at the end of the meeting, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to find lasting solutions to the widespread disruptions caused by the harmattan season and other operational challenges.
Acting Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, presented data revealing the extent of flight disruptions in recent months. In September 2024, out of 5,291 flights operated, 2,434 were delayed, while 79 were cancelled. Similarly, in October 2024, 5,513 flights were operated, of which 2,791 experienced delays, and 111 were cancelled.
To address these challenges, airlines were advised to optimise their schedules to manageable sizes and ensure standby aircraft are available to handle Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations promptly. These measures, alongside the extension of operational hours, aim to alleviate disruptions and improve the efficiency of flight operations across the country.
The NCAA expressed optimism that the extension would enhance the reliability of flights, particularly during the harmattan season, and foster a smoother travel experience for passengers while supporting the operational needs of airlines.
