The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Fatai Buhari, has revealed that the Senate is working on a bill to regulate the operations of airlines in Nigeria, particularly those running multiple routes with three or fewer aircraft.

Speaking at the South-West Regional Air Transportation Summit 2024 in Lagos, Buhari highlighted the challenges faced by passengers due to airlines refusing to codeshare. He noted, “Nigerians, codesharing is the way to go for airlines. Even in developed nations, they do it.”

Buhari further explained that the bill, currently before the National Assembly, would ensure airlines operate with a minimum of four or five aircraft. Airlines with fewer aircraft would be limited to specialised routes. He acknowledged the opposition to the bill but stressed, “In the interest of Nigerians and the flying passengers, I pray that the bill will scale through.”

Industry players at the summit also called for an overhaul of aviation policies to promote growth and development. They proposed establishing a special aviation development fund for infrastructure, safety, and capacity building.

Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, Executive Director of the Alternative Bank, pointed to inconsistent policies as a major hindrance to the sector’s progress. He called for public-private partnerships to boost investments in airport infrastructure and aircraft maintenance. “The only way the aviation industry can work in Nigeria is to ensure that every value chain is working hand-in-hand,” Ozoemene said.

Former U.S. Transportation Security Administration Representative, Oluseyi Ogunleye, stressed the pivotal role of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in driving economic growth through aviation. He urged collaboration among stakeholders to overcome challenges and unlock the sector’s full potential.

Ogunleye stated, “With a shared commitment to progress… the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority can drive impactful change and unlock a prosperous future for all Nigerians.” He added, “Let us embrace the opportunities, overcome the challenges, and soar to new heights of aviation excellence.”