United Nigeria Airways addresses hen strike security issues

Barely two days after hen strikes pressured 4 of its plane out of service, United Nigeria Airways has engaged the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria in Lagos to deal with rising security and operational issues.

The assembly, held at FAAN headquarters, introduced collectively the airline’s Chairman, Prof Obiora Okonkwo, and FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Govt, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, alongside their respective administration groups.

The airline stated hen strikes have grounded 4 of its plane in lower than two months, inflicting important operational and monetary burdens.

“Chook strikes have change into a serious operational and monetary problem for airways. When an plane is grounded unexpectedly, it disrupts schedules, inconveniences passengers, and locations huge stress on fleet availability. That is an industry-wide concern that requires coordinated motion,” Okonkwo stated.

Past hen strikes, the airline additionally highlighted constraints posed by dawn and sundown airports, which lack nighttime infrastructure and infrequently result in delays and cancellations. Prof Okonkwo burdened that insufficient amenities and restricted airfield lighting programs at some Class II airports restrict operational effectivity.

“These limitations disrupt schedules and have an effect on passenger confidence,” he stated, calling for accelerated infrastructure upgrades to assist safer and extra versatile operations.

The airline chairman additionally raised issues about unruly passenger behaviour, describing it as a security danger that requires firmer enforcement and industry-wide deterrence.

United Nigeria Airways formally requested land in Abuja for the event of a Upkeep, Restore, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, geared toward strengthening native plane upkeep capability and lowering reliance on overseas MRO suppliers.

In response, FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, emphasised that collaboration between airport authorities and airways is important to bettering security and effectivity.

“Collaboration is essential. We’ve got recognized main causes of hen strikes and are implementing environmental management measures, together with improved grass and habitat administration round airport environments,” Kuku stated.

She added that FAAN is strengthening company duty initiatives to curb actions round airports that appeal to birds. On infrastructure, the authority plans to improve airfield lighting at Class II airports, together with apron and lighting enhancements at Benin Airport and lighting enhancements in Jos, to assist prolonged operations.

Kuku additionally pledged stricter enforcement in opposition to unruly passengers and expressed willingness to overview the airline’s request for land in Abuja. “We’re open to reviewing the proposed MRO land request and hope to fast-track the allocation as a part of efforts to strengthen native plane upkeep capability,” she stated.

Commenting after the assembly, United Nigeria Airways’ Govt Director and Chief Working Officer, Osita Okonkwo, described the engagement as well timed. “Sustained cooperation between airways and airport authorities stays important for protected and environment friendly {industry} progress,” he stated.

Different members of the airline’s delegation included Director of Administration, Linus Awute; Director of Flight Operations, Capt Ahmad Mahmoud; Chief Business Officer, Raphael Uchegbu; and Director of Human Sources, Kelechi Violet Asuquo.