The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), on Tuesday, presented the Aerodrome Certificate for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Presenting the certificate at the NCAA Corporate Headquarters Abuja, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, DGCA, Captain Chris Najomo, represented by the Director, Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Alhaji Ahmad Abba, described the certification as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“The certification reflects NCAA’s commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices, especially as the country prepares for ICAO Continuous Monitoring Approach activities.”
Capt. Najomo further commended the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, for its cooperation and dedication throughout the five-phased certification process.
In response, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, represented by the Director, Commercial and Business Development, Ms. Adebola Agunbiade, acknowledged the role of the DGCA, the technical teams from NCAA and FAAN, and other stakeholders in achieving this feat.
Ms. Agunbiade assured that FAAN will sustain compliance with regulatory requirements and continue to improve operational standards across its airports.
“This certification is not an end, but a new phase of continuous improvement. We are committed to sustaining global standards and enhancing passenger experience across all our airports,” she stated.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Transport, Enugu State, Obi Ozor, described the certification as a boost to the Dr. Peter Mbah administration’s vision to grow the state from a $4.4 billion to a $30 billion economy, and to the target of making Enugu a major aviation hub.
Obi Ozor commended the NCAA for its professionalism and stringent certification, saying the development would boost the airport’s credibility in the eyes of international airlines and aviation bodies, while also positioning it to attract new international routes.
Meanwhile, an Aerodrome Certificate is an official license issued by the NCAA that confirms an airport meets all the required safety, operational and infrastructure standards to legally receive aircraft and passengers.
“Aerodrome certification is the formal process where national aviation authorities (e.g., NCAA) confirm an airport meets international ICAO safety, operational, and infrastructure standards. It involves submitting an Aerodrome Manual, passing inspections, and demonstrating safe operating procedures to receive a license for handling passengers and aircraft.”
“Regulatory Framework: Based on ICAO Annex 14, requiring states to certify aerodromes, particularly those handling international operations.”
“Key Requirements: Certification ensures compliance with requirements for runways, lighting, safety equipment, and emergency response capabilities.”
