Business Aviation Flight Operations In Nigeria

The business aviation flight operations landscape in Nigeria has indeed seen significant changes, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The resilience of the sector is evident in the remarkable surge in domestic air travel, with over 13 million passengers traversing Nigerian airports in 2021, a 43.41% increase from the previous year. International travel also saw a 57.61% growth, with over 2.2 million passengers. These airports serve as gateways to Nigeria, connecting it to various international destinations and facilitating the flow of passengers and cargo, thereby contributing significantly to the nation’s flight operations:

• Murtala Muhammed International Airport (IATA: LOS, ICAO: DNMM)
• Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (IATA: ABV, ICAO: DNAA)
• Port Harcourt International Airport (IATA: PHC, ICAO: DNPO)
• Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (IATA: KAN, ICAO: DNKN)
• Akanu Ibiam International Airport (IATA: ENU, ICAO: DNEN)

International Slot Coordination and Procedures for Business Flights in Nigeria

To gain slots for non-scheduled business flight operations in Nigeria, contact Just Aviation team to help you preparing for the slot. The following documents and steps are typically required:

• Application letter stating the purpose of the aircraft, the number and types of aircraft to be operated, and the area of operation (within and/or outside Nigeria).
• Personal History Statement (duly completed).
• Two passport size photographs for each owner or shareholder with more than 5% equity shareholding.
• Proof of payment of the processing fee.
• Proof of sources of funds for maintenance and safe operation of aircraft.
• Tax Clearance Certificate(s) of owner and directors.
• Certified true copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (four copies).
• Certified true copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association (four copies).
• Valid proof of Identification for individuals or valid founding documents for non-individuals.

Steps to Gain Slots

• Compose an application letter as a request for obtaining a Permit For Non-Commercial Flight Operations (PNCF).
• Submit the application letter along with the required documents to the office of the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
• Provide any additional information requested by the Director General during the application process.
• Forward the necessary documents to the Ministry of Aviation to seek Security Clearance from the Presidency.
• Once all processes are completed, the authorities will take the necessary steps for the permit issuance process.
• Collect the permit when notified by the authorities.

Please note that the non-refundable processing fee for the application is N250,000.00. For the most current and detailed information, it’s advisable to contact the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) directly.

Overflight Permits in Nigeria’s International Operations

Obtaining overflight permits for Nigeria’s international operations typically requires a lead time of four to five business days and specific documentation. Nigerian authorities necessitate airworthiness and registration certificates, a radio license, noise certificates, and maintenance logs, with a focus on the final three signed-off pages. Departures outside the permit’s validity period are generally manageable but adherence is recommended. Unlike some West African locations, Nigeria requires advance paperwork. Conversely, GVNP does not require pre-submission documentation but mandates an insurance certificate presentation upon landing, even for technical stops. DGAA, on the other hand, demands local business contact information for all stops except technical ones, highlighting the diverse permit processes across Western Africa.

Landing Permits in Nigeria’s International Operations

Similarly, landing permits for Nigeria’s international operations require a lead time of four to five business days and comprehensive documentation. This includes airworthiness and registration certificates, a radio license, noise certificates, and maintenance logs, with particular scrutiny on the last three signed-off pages. Departure flexibility within the permit’s validity is generally accommodated, though adherence is advisable. In contrast, GVNP does not necessitate advance documentation, only requiring an insurance certificate presentation upon landing, even for technical stops. Notably, DGAA mandates local business contact information for all stops, except technical ones, underscoring the varying permit requirements within Western Africa.

Ground Handling Operations at Nigeria’s International Airports

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), operated by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), serves as the primary gateway to Lagos, Nigeria. Recognized with a 2-Star Airport certification for its facilities, comfort, cleanliness, shopping, food & beverages, staff service, and security/immigration, it stands as a key aviation hub in the region. Similarly, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), under FAAN’s management, caters to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. The Directorate of Operations, Licensing & Training Standards (DOLTS) within the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority oversees the regulatory aspects of air operator certifications and flight operations at this facility. Meanwhile, Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC), situated in Omagwa, a suburb of Port Harcourt, is also under FAAN’s administration. The airport is on the brink of achieving certification by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, ensuring compliance with the safety standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization for international airports globally.

At Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), comprehensive ground handling services are provided with Just Aviation playing a pivotal role. Our services encompass meticulous aircraft handling, ramp operations, and a variety of aviation ground services that epitomize excellence. Our unwavering focus on precision in every aspect of ground handling ensures seamless passenger experiences and the efficient flow of cargo logistics. The airport also ensures the availability of Jet A/A-1 fuel, with our dedicated to steady fueling support for diverse aircraft.

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) stands out with its recently renovated and expanded facilities, signaling the presence of maintenance facilities to cater to aircraft needs. We enhance the performance of ground operations by integrating human factors and crew resource management (CRM) into their practices, ensuring a safe and efficient environment.

At Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC), the availability of Jet A-1 fuel is guaranteed, crucial for turbine engines. We contribute to this by managing weight and balance of aircraft, overseeing flight watch, and assisting aircraft within the range of the Very High-Frequency Radio. Further inquiries regarding fuel prices and additional services are directed to the airport’s fuel service team.

Lastly, at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (KAN), both AVGAS and JET fuel options are offered to meet diverse aircraft fuel requirements. Just Aviation’s role includes providing all ground support equipment (GSE), enhancing baggage and cargo handling services, and ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the aircraft to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.

Just Aviation’s operations in Nigeria are a reflection of our global expertise and local knowledge. Working closely with flight and cabin crew, and our ground handling team, we deliver superior flight support. Our global network of FBOs and Ground Handling Service providers is essential to providing the high-quality service that our clients expect.