United Nigeria Airlines, FAAN Hold Talks on Bird Strikes, Infrastructure, MRO Development

United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) have held high-level discussions aimed at addressing critical safety challenges and advancing infrastructure development across the country's aviation sector.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the airline disclosed that the meeting covered a range of pressing issues, including rising bird strike incidents, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, airport operating hours, infrastructure upgrades, and the carrier's expansion plans.

UNA Chairman Obiora Okonkwo raised alarm over the increasing frequency of bird strikes, describing the trend as a significant operational and financial burden on airlines. He also pointed to constraints posed by limited operating hours at sunrise and sunset airports, as well as deficiencies at Category II facilities, which he said frequently disrupt schedules and trigger delays.

Okonkwo formally requested land allocation in Abuja to establish an MRO facility, a move aimed at strengthening domestic technical capacity and reducing reliance on foreign maintenance providers. He further drew attention to the rising incidence of unruly passenger behaviour, calling for decisive action to curb the trend.

Responding, FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku emphasized that collaboration remains fundamental to improving safety standards and operational efficiency across Nigerian airports.

Kuku disclosed that the authority had identified the root causes of bird strikes and was actively implementing enhanced grass and habitat management protocols around airport environments. She also announced plans to upgrade airfield lighting at Category II airports to support extended operations.

According to her, apron rehabilitation works are currently underway at Benin Airport, while lighting improvements are scheduled for Jos Airport in the near term.

On passenger misconduct, Kuku assured stricter enforcement of regulations and pledged to expedite the review of UNA's land request for the proposed Abuja MRO, noting that the project would significantly boost Nigeria's local aircraft maintenance capacity.