Nigeria: NCAA urges airline operators, travellers to exercise caution amidst three-day dust haze 

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has advised vigilance amidst deteriorating visibility from January 29 to 31, 2024.

In a statement signed by Captain Chris Najomo, Acting Director-General of Civil Aviation, the NCAA issued a warning to pilots, airline operators, and passengers to exercise caution during this period, as reduced visibility poses potential risks to air travel.

The alert, communicated by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), warns of a dust haze phenomenon expected to impact the country from Monday to Wednesday. NiMET’s weather outlook, disclosed on Sunday, predicts a range of dust haze intensities over different regions.

Over the North, moderate dust haze with a horizontal visibility range of 2km to 5km is anticipated. Meanwhile, the North Central region is expected to experience moderate dust haze with localized horizontal visibility of less than or equal to 1000m.

NiMET’s forecast extends its warning to the South and coastal areas, anticipating a continuous presence of dust haze throughout the three-day period. 

On Tuesday, the forecast predicts moderate dust haze with a horizontal visibility range of 2km to 5km over the northern region, emphasizing the need for heightened caution during this time.

The statement from NiMET highlights the suspension of dust particles in the air and recommends the use of face masks.

Individuals with asthma and respiratory issues have been advised to take extra precautions, while everyone is encouraged to pay special attention to skin, eyes, and lips, moisturising as necessary.

As part of the safety measures, airline operators have been urged to stay updated on weather reports and forecasts from NiMET for effective planning. 

The NCAA emphasised the importance of passenger safety and requested understanding and patience during this period.