Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) has visited Magnus Aircraft Group in Hungary following an invitation to attend its product introduction event.
The company showcased its latest innovation, the Hungarian MF-212 multifunctional aircraft, designed for training and aerial surveillance purposes.
During the visit, Keyamo and his delegation explored potential collaborations for staging the manufacturing and assemblage of the modern multipurpose aircraft in Nigeria.
Of particular interest was the integration of these aircraft into the training programmes for students at the Africa Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja.
The aircraft manufacturing company in collaboration with Hungarian Authorities, organized a comprehensive programme for the Minister’s visit.
A statement by Media and Communications Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Tunde Moshood said the delegation had the opportunity to tour various organizations in Hungary, including Mouldtech Engineering and Military Equipment factory.
The highlight of the visit was a meeting with Chief Executive Officer of Magnus Aircraft Group, Mr. Boros Laszlo, who guided the delegation through the company’s state-of-the-art facilities.
The tour covered the production line, assembly of composite parts, painting, aircraft parts assembly, engine installation, final quality checks, test flights, and quality handover.
The MF-212 is a two-seater low-wing aircraft made entirely of carbon composite materials, featuring a fixed non-retractable landing gear. With high aerobatic and operational characteristics. The aircraft can withstand overload of +11.8/-6.3g, making it suitable for various applications.
The Magnus group CEO highlighted the aircraft’s unique safety features to include the use of normal petrol (PMS) as fuel and a ballistic recovery system. The parachute pack, situated in front of the cabin, which added an extra layer of safety.
The versatile MF-212 can be adapted for private use, business flights, training purposes, aerial surveillance, military pilot training, border monitoring, disaster management, agricultural observation, anti-terrorism, anti-piracy missions, and UAV applications.
In a significant move towards technology transfer, Magnus Aircraft Company has established a partnership with the Ministry of Aviation, Nigeria. A manufacturing factory in NCAT, Zaria, was commissioned on May 26, 2023. The collaboration includes training programs for NCAT engineers on aircraft manufacture/assembly and type rating training for end-users such as the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and NSCDC Pilots and Engineers.
The impact of this collaboration is already evident, with MAGNUS AIRCRAFT products deployed for agricultural purposes by NALDA and utilized by NCAT for security and surveillance duties. Deliveries have also been made to Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, showcasing the aircraft’s global relevance.
The Honourable Minister and his team experienced firsthand the capabilities of the MF-212 during test flights, marking a significant milestone in potential collaborations between Nigeria and MAGNUS AIRCRAFT. The company’s establishment of an assembly plant in NCAT, Nigeria, further solidifies the commitment to technology transfer and growth in the aviation sector.
