Yuletide: FG directs airlines to review flight schedules

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has asked airlines to review their flight schedules during the Christmas and New Year period to reduce delays and cancellations, PM News has learnt.

FAAN also said it has started holding weekly meetings with relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth airport operations and a better experience for passengers during December and January.

Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, FAAN Managing Director, made the remarks in Abuja during a retreat for the FAAN Governing Board and stakeholders themed: “Future-proofing FAAN: Leadership, Modernisation and Strategic Renewal.”

She added that FAAN is working to fix faulty cooling systems, address power issues, and maintain clean airports throughout the festive season.

Kuku said:

“We must ensure our airports are safe, secure, and welcoming for all passengers. A major challenge during the peak period is flight delays. We are asking airlines, with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to review schedules and provide timely information when delays occur.

“We have also started weekly facilitation meetings with ground handlers and airlines to ensure smoother operations.”

She noted that FAAN is also improving airport facilities, including working cooling systems, sanitary conditions, and secondary power sources, especially in Lagos.

Kuku further revealed that FAAN has increased its revenue targets.

“Since December 2023, our non-aeronautical revenue has grown by over 50%, and our aeronautical revenue from landing, parking, and passenger service charges has also increased. We are on track to ensure FAAN becomes a self-sustaining agency.”

FAAN Board Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, said the board will support management to make FAAN a modern, efficient, and financially sustainable organization.

He emphasized that FAAN must focus on operational excellence, passenger experience, inter-agency coordination, and a unified security system. Ganduje added that upgrading infrastructure, improving security, adopting digital solutions, investing in staff welfare, and expanding revenue sources are key priorities for long-term sustainability.