It was a remarkable success to the Nigerian aviation industry, when earlier this month, the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) successfully hosted the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (IFATCA) Africa and Middle East Regional 29th meeting which was declared opened in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, by the Honourable Minister of State, Aviation, Hon. Hadi Sirika.
Other than the Minister, the event was also graced by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry of Transport as well as the Chief Executive Officers of federal aviation agencies.
The Minister who stressed the importance of air traffic control in the aviation sector, noted that the ministry recently employed some 86 air traffic controllers, and 46 others are currently being trained at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, Kaduna state.
In his opening remarks, the National President of Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), Mr. Eyaru Victor, noted that NATCA, “being a member of IFATCA over the years has afforded members of NATCA to benefit immensely socially, professional networking and skill development”.
According to him, “this year’s theme “Seamless Friendly Sky” will focus mainly on intensifying efforts to achieving unbroken air safety within our region and beyond. It requires collaborative efforts across the borders to ensure seamless safe and efficient air navigation.”
Papers presented during the event which held from November 5-9, included those on fatigue and how to manage it as it relates to the job of Air Traffic Control, the issue of noise emanating in communication between the Air Traffic Controller and the Pilot among others.
The event was attended by delegates from different countries in Africa and the Middle East, and graced by the National President of Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), Mr. Eyaru Victor; Executive Vice President of IFATCA, Africa and Middle East, Mr. Fateh Bekhti; and the President of IFATCA, Mr. Patrik Peters.
Major sponsors of the event include the Nigerian Air Space Management Agency, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Federal Ministry of Transport, RwandAir, Nigerian Meteorological Agency and Accident Investigation Bureau and Max Air.
