FAAN Director Details Major Airport Operations Achievements, Challenges

Captain Abdullahi Mahmood, Director of Airport Operations at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has highlighted key achievements and challenges since assuming office, shedding light on ongoing projects and the agency’s efforts to improve airport infrastructure nationwide.

One of the most significant hurdles, according to Capt. Mahmood, was the extended closure of Runway 18 Right at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. 

“When we took over, the runway had been closed for eight months, surpassing the initial six-week renovation plan due to contractual issues,” Mahmood explained. 

He said with the collaboration of the FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the runway was reopened, restoring operational capacity. 

“We also fixed Link 1, and today, Lagos boasts two fully operational runways,” Mahmood added.

According to him, other airports across the country are also receiving attention, noting that the 2023 Hajj operations were successfully conducted in Ilorin, after runway lighting issues that had halted flights in 2022 were resolved. 

“We ensured the runway lighting was operational, allowing for smooth Hajj operations,” he added.

Regarding the dilapidated state of airport facilities, Mahmood acknowledged that some buildings have been in use for over 40 years, requiring only temporary repairs. 

However, FAAN’s long-term goal is to remodel these structures, albeit gradually. “Remodelling takes time, but with the unwavering support of the Minister and the MD, we are on track,” he stated.

Mahmood disclosed that one pressing issue FAAN is tackling is the appalling state of airport toilets. 

He, however, revealed that there were ongoing efforts to remodel toilets at Nigeria’s five international airports. 

“Soon, Nigerians will witness the unveiling of modern toilets across all terminals,” he assured. 

This initiative, according to Mahmood, is part of a broader campaign to upgrade facilities that meet international standards.

Mahmood also addressed concerns about the certification of Nigeria’s major airports, particularly Lagos and Abuja, by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). According to him, most of the gaps identified in previous reports have been closed. 

“We are confident that the certification process will soon be completed, thanks to the systematic work we’ve done.”

The Director clarified misconceptions about runway maintenance, specifically derubberisation, which involves cleaning rubber deposits from runways to maintain friction. 

“Runway maintenance is based on aircraft landings, with friction tests determining when derubberisation is required,” he explained. 

FAAN has implemented a schedule for all Nigerian runways, ensuring maintenance is conducted regularly. “We can tell you the maintenance status of any runway at any given time,” Mahmood emphasised.

On the issue of aircraft recovery, Mahmood disclosed that FAAN possesses complete recovery equipment, stationed in Abuja, with plans to acquire additional sets for Lagos.

“These are highly specialised and expensive equipment, but we are fully prepared with trained operators,” he said.

Addressing Lagos’ apron congestion, Mahmood acknowledged that the limited space for aircraft parking is a major concern. 

“The apron is small, and it gets very crowded, especially at night,” he lamented, adding that FAAN is working on an airport master plan to address these space constraints while also offering incentives to airlines to utilise underutilised airports. 

“This will reduce pressure on major airports and encourage the use of alternative airports,” Mahmood explained.

Finally, Capt. Mahmood assured that efforts to clear the “aircraft graveyard” in Lagos are progressing. 

“The Minister personally inspected the area, and I can assure you that concrete action is being taken. You will see the results soon,” he concluded.

Mahmood assured that FAAN remains committed to addressing infrastructure deficiencies and operational challenges to ensure a safer and more efficient aviation environment across Nigeria.