Available statistics show that the air traffic controllers (ATCs) across 20 airports and airstrips in Nigeria annually guides over 13, 000 and 80, 000 flights respectively on the international and local routes.
The president of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), Mr Abayomi Agoro, disclosed this during the celebration of the 2024 International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (IFATCA) World Air Traffic Controllers Day held yesterday.
Agoro said the figure “is compelling and a testament to the professional competence and resilience of ATCs.”
He described the 2024 IFATCA World Air Traffic Controllers Day as a “landmark event” saying it ignites a sense of professional dignity and pride in every ATC across the globe in over 130 countries.
He further said the event was celebrated with mixed feelings because some members died recently.
“Nevertheless, we have every cause to celebrate our modest achievements over the years as professionals saddled with the responsibilities of working round the clock to make air travel the safest possible mode of transport.
“We can thump our chest with professional pride and confidence to have delivered admiringly on this mandate,” he said.
Agoro noted that from its humble beginning, air traffic control has evolved and developed into a highly sophisticated and technology-driven occupation that has consistently made our airspace safe.
“This year’s anniversary is yet another perfect moment to appreciate ourselves, individually and collectively as a body of professionals who are always watching with keen eyes, the flow of aircraft on the radar scope and always being with air travelers on their flights and throughout the journey from departure right through the journey in the air to the point of arrival,” he added.
The NATCA president applauded the federal government and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) for improving services in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“We also believe more could be achieved with the right funding structure for the sector,” while appreciating NATCA members for their “professionalism, focus, dedication and staying up to date with technology and procedures that have been helping us in the delivery of value to the aviation industry.”
