By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka
The Senate has called for improved coordination between security agencies and aviation authorities to prevent VIP movements from disrupting commercial flight operations and exposing passengers and crew members to avoidable safety risks across Nigerian airports.
The call followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Isah Jibrin, who raised concerns over the practice of keeping commercial aircraft airborne in holding patterns for extended periods whenever airport operations are temporarily restricted to accommodate VIPs and other security-related movements.
The Senate observed that the situation has, on some occasions, resulted in aircraft spending considerable time in the air while awaiting clearance to land, with some reported delays lasting over an hour. It warned that such disruptions could affect flight schedules and create unnecessary operational difficulties for airlines.
The lawmakers noted that prolonged holding patterns place additional demands on aircraft fuel reserves, potentially creating dangerous situations when delays extend beyond the periods anticipated during flight planning. Other concerns include changing weather conditions, congestion in the airspace and limited opportunities for alternative landing arrangements.
The Senate also expressed concern that some international flights scheduled to land at Nigerian airports have had to divert to alternative airports within the country because of temporary restrictions affecting their intended destinations.
It maintained that although VIP movements and security-related operations are legitimate national responsibilities, they should be properly planned and coordinated to avoid disrupting commercial aviation. Where restrictions are anticipated, airlines should receive timely information to enable them to adjust departure schedules and make appropriate operational arrangements.
The Senate therefore called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to strengthen communication with airlines and ensure that foreseeable restrictions are managed through ground delays, revised departure slots and proper flight sequencing.
It further urged the Senate Committee on Aviation to engage the three agencies, monitor compliance with the recommended operational procedures and submit its findings to the Senate within two weeks, stressing that passenger safety must remain paramount in all aviation-related decisions.
