FG, Embraer discuss re-fleeting Nigeria’s domestic airlines

Simon Ateba/Aviation correspondent

Nigeria’s Federal government said on Monday it has begun talks with Embraer, world’s major aircraft manufacturer based in Brazil, to make aircraft acquisition more affordable for Nigerian airlines.

The spokesperson of Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Mr. Joseph Obi, said in a statement that a “provisional” agreement had been reached between both parties.

The talks, Obi said, opened last weekend in S.J Dos Campos, the headquarters of Embraer in Brazil by representatives of the Federal Ministry of Aviation led by the Managing Director of FAAN, Mr. George Uriesi, and Embraer, led by the Senior Vice President Operations/Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Luis Carlos Affonso.

Obi quoted Uriesi as telling Embraer that Nigerian domestic carriers use wrong equipment.

”Government wants to change this model entirely by floating a fund for the acquisition of new aircraft for the domestic carriers,” FAAN boss said.

In this regard, he explained, the government is seeking a partnership with Embraer.

Luis Carlos Affonso who spoke on behalf of Embraer said the company welcomes the opportunity to work, partner and collaborate with the government of Nigeria.

Affonso said Embraer considers the African market as a very important one, adding that market indicators show that the number of aircraft in the continent would double in the next few years.

“Nigeria will certainly be leading this expansion in Africa and we will be very delighted to be part of that growth and expansion,” he said.

Obi said both parties agreed to continue more specific and detailed discussions on the subject matter.