FAAN, IATA Forge Stronger Collaboration to Enhance Passenger Experience, Growth of Nigeria’s Aviation
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reinforced its commitment to elevating the standards of the Nigerian aviation sector through a strengthened partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
During a recent meeting held on 15 October 2024 at FAAN Headquarters in Lagos, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, called for enhanced collaboration with IATA to ensure the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
According to a statement signed by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, the courtesy visit, led by Mr Kamil Alawadhi, Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East of IATA, saw the delegation discussing key areas for cooperation.
Mr Alawadhi, accompanied by senior IATA officials including Dr Samson Fatokun, Area Manager for West & Central Africa, commended the ongoing improvements at Nigerian airports.
He praised FAAN’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, security, and passenger experience, highlighting the significant progress made by the current administration.
Mr Alawadhi emphasised the importance of adopting digital solutions to enhance airport operations.
He stated that leveraging technology, such as improving security checkpoint management, would contribute to operational efficiency and elevate the passenger experience.
He expressed IATA’s keen interest in collaborating with FAAN on such initiatives, particularly in advancing passenger facilitation and improving the exchange of information between agencies operating within the airport environment.
Responding to the IATA delegation, Mrs Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s dedication to ensuring passenger safety and security.
She noted that with the evolving global aviation landscape, the adoption of advanced security technologies is critical.
FAAN’s goal, according to Mrs Kuku, is to streamline the passenger experience, reduce check-in time, and create a more customer-centric environment at Nigerian airports.
Mrs Kuku called for increased collaboration between FAAN and IATA, stressing the need for more regular engagements between the two organisations.
She also sought IATA’s support in traffic development and other areas vital to FAAN’s operational success.
The FAAN MD assured her visitors that the Authority remains committed to implementing IATA’s recommendations and ensuring that Nigerian airports consistently meet international standards.
Vice-President Alawadhi reaffirmed IATA’s ongoing support for FAAN, expressing optimism about the future of aviation in Nigeria.
Other FAAN officials in attendance included Captain Abdullahi Mahmood, Director of Airport Operations, and Mr Hycienth Ngwu, General Manager of Business Development.
This renewed collaboration is expected to foster further advancements in Nigeria’s aviation sector, with FAAN and IATA working together to enhance airport safety, operational efficiency, and overall passenger experience.
