Aviation industry stakeholders believe that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has the potential to increase its revenue from overflights to $1.5 billion annually through enhancements to its airspace infrastructure. Currently, NAMA generates approximately 50% of this potential revenue due to inadequate airspace coverage, primarily caused by outdated equipment. Overflight charges, which are fees for aircraft flying through Nigerian airspace without landings, constitute the majority of NAMA’s self-generated income.
Insiders indicate that NAMA’s actual revenue streams have historically fallen short of expectations, often collecting only a small fraction of what is required to meet its operational overheads exceeding N43 billion annually. Charges for overflights range from $75 to $195, with fees from en-route and terminal navigation accounting for about 75% of the agency’s total income.
During the 55th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) in Lagos, stakeholders highlighted the urgent need for an upgrade of NAMA’s communication systems, completion of ongoing projects, and strategic training for personnel. Despite previous promises from management, advancements in infrastructure remain minimal, leading to frustrations among air traffic controllers.
Edino Ilemona Amos, President of NATCA, expressed concern over persistent equipment failures, indicating that without a comprehensive plan to modernize communication and surveillance infrastructure, the association may contemplate withdrawal of services. He noted that while there have been procurement announcements, they have yet to yield tangible improvements for frontline controllers.
To achieve effective communication, stakeholders outlined the need for the installation of new Very High Omnidirectional Radios Range (VHF) systems across operational sites and the rollout of extended Very High Frequency (E-VHF) systems. Additional requirements include Voice Communication and Control Systems (VCCS) to enhance operational continuity.
NAMA is reportedly making strides towards upgrading its Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system and procuring new surveillance technologies such as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) to improve tracking accuracy. However, there are differing opinions within NAMA regarding whether ongoing upgrades to TRACON are sufficient to meet modern standards.
In response to these concerns, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that the Total Radar Coverage system’s overhaul has been approved. Ongoing projects include the deployment of ADS-B technology and the construction of a new Air Traffic Management Centre in Abuja, which aims to consolidate operational control from the Lagos and Kano Area Control Centres.
As industry experts assert that enhanced infrastructure is critical for NAMA to improve its revenue from overflights, the call for immediate and comprehensive upgrades to communication and surveillance systems continues to grow.
