The coast is gradually getting clearer for the rebirth of the national carrier, as the proposed Nigeria Air received its Air Transport Licence (ATL) from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The certificate was presented by the Director Genral of NCAA, Capt. Musa Nuhu interim management of the airline.
Speaking during the presentation in Abuja on Monday, Nuhu said that ATL was a prerequisite for the airline to acquire Air Operation Certificate (AOC) to start operating.
According to him, NCAA works and supports all operators currently existing and aspiring, in the industry to get necessary documents after meeting all the requirements.
“ This ATL has gone through all the processes. So, at this point in time, I will like to do the presentation. We look forward for the fulfilment of the AOC process so that we can hand over AOC certificate to you.
“As the regulator, we work with operators. That is a goal to promote the growth of the industry. It is important to have strong airlines in Nigeria in view of the Single African Transport Market (SATM).
“Also, in view of Africa Continental Free Trade Area which can make significant contribution to the growth of Nigerian economy, “ he said.
He said Nigeria stood to get the best from the AU Agenda 2063 Air programme being one of the largest market in Africa.
He said participating in Single Africa Air Transport Market as a nation would increase Gross Domestic Products (GDPs).
Responding, the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Air, Capt Dapo Olumide, thanked NCAA for the good job executed leading to present ATL to Nigeria Air.
Olumide said the team would definitely double efforts in order to fulfil all necessary processes to receive AOC certificate from NCAA to start flying.
“We already have aircraft identified because, that is one of the requirements for the NCAA. We are waiting for the terms of agreement with Provider of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
“ What we need now is to go through stages to get AOC certificate from NCAA. No magic in the process. It is not something that can be issued because they like your face.
“When you have an AOC and ATL, you can commence commercial scheduled operations. The date to start operation is largely based on the process one is following to get the AOC certificate“ he said.
Laudable that the air transport mode’s national carrier is waking up now after decades of death. It follows then that, that of the water, the Nigerian National Shipping Line is next for resurrection!
This is not to be taken for granted, it must follow that whatsoever is good for the goose is equally good for the gander!!