The Problem: Costly and Time-Consuming Towing
In stark contrast to international standards where aero bridges provide direct access for passenger embarkation and disembarkation, airlines in Nigeria are forced to pay substantial amounts to ground handling companies to tow their aircraft to these bridges. This process not only adds a significant financial strain but also results in approximately 20-minute delays for passengers after landing.
The Financial Toll: N25 Billion Annually
According to industry sources, international airlines operating at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos alone incur an estimated N25 billion annually in towing fees. Ground handling companies charge $1,350 for towing larger aircraft and $673 for smaller ones. With an average of 990 aircraft landings and takeoffs monthly at the international wing of the Lagos airport, the cumulative costs are staggering.
The Missing Aero Bridges: A Decade-Long Delay
FAAN procured 28 aero bridges in 2014, but these critical pieces of infrastructure remain in China, where they were reportedly purchased. The reasons for this decade-long delay remain unclear, prompting concerns about inefficiency and potential impropriety.
Industry Concerns: Collusion and Negligence
Roland Iyayi, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and CEO of TopBrass Aviation, has expressed concerns about possible collusion between ground handling companies and authorities. He likened the situation to the relationship between generator sellers and power companies, where a lack of essential infrastructure creates a lucrative market for alternative services.
"For me, I see what is happening as a sort of connivance by some people to make money for the ground handling companies," Iyayi stated. "Now that the authorities have refused to provide the automated machine, the ground handling companies have a job to do, one that shouldn’t have surfaced at all."
Retired Capt. Mohammed Badamosi echoed these concerns, urging FAAN to expedite the installation of the procured aero bridges. "If these machines have truly been procured, they should tell us why they are yet to be installed," he said.
FAAN's Silence: A Lack of Transparency
Despite repeated attempts to obtain clarification, FAAN officials, including the Director of Airport Operations, Abdullahi Mahmood, and the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, have declined to comment on the matter. This silence further fuels speculation and raises questions about the transparency and accountability of the airport authority.
The Need for Action: Streamlining Airport Operations
The delayed deployment of aero bridges is not only a financial burden for airlines but also a significant inconvenience for passengers. FAAN must address this issue promptly by providing clear explanations for the delays and taking immediate steps to install the procured equipment. Streamlining airport operations and reducing unnecessary costs will benefit both airlines and passengers, contributing to the overall efficiency and competitiveness of Nigeria's aviation sector.