The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing airside safety through the revalidation of aircraft marshallers.
This program, launched in collaboration with F.C.I International, also known as the Centre for Technical Development, is designed to curb apron-related accidents during the festive season and beyond.
The initiative aligns with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority's advisory circular NCAA-AC-ARD049 on Airside Safety Management, ensuring that marshallers are equipped to safely guide aircraft during ground movements and taxiing.
The Director of Human Resources at FAAN, Dr. Emiola Olatubosun Luqman, emphasized the importance of closing technical training gaps to enhance safe air transport services.
Speaking at a training session held at Port Harcourt International Airport, Dr. Luqman highlighted the management's commitment to providing safe and secure air transport support services during the Yuletide and beyond.
He stated, "The management of FAAN is making efforts to close all technical-related training gaps to prepare FAAN to provide safe and secure air transport support services."
Over 200 aircraft marshallers from various airports across Nigeria have been trained and revalidated under this program. The training goes beyond traditional marshalling signals, incorporating an assessment of all apron-related work hazards.
Mr. Fortune Idu, Managing Director of F.C.I International and coordinator of the program, noted that the training is designed to make signalmen comprehensively safer aircraft marshallers by reviewing existing standard operating procedures and practices and introducing a new logging system to promote efficiency.
Participants in the program expressed their appreciation for the FAAN management's efforts in addressing their needs and equipping them with the necessary tools for better performance. They also advocated for broader career progression opportunities and more advanced training programs for marshallers.
Responding to these requests, Mr. Idu remarked that his organization has been advocating for the formation of a Marshallers consultative body to ensure professional conduct and respect for marshallers. He also indicated that he has presented this case to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, which has endorsed it.
The revalidation program is part of a broader effort by FAAN to enhance airside safety and ensure efficient operations during the busy holiday travel period.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, FAAN is committed to reducing apron-related incidents and accidents, thereby ensuring the safety of both passengers and crew. The initiative reflects FAAN's dedication to maintaining high standards of safety and operational efficiency in Nigeria's aviation sector.
Comments