In an effort to forestall a repeat of recent bird strike incidents and improve safety of flight operations at the nation’s airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has taken proactive steps by acquiring some Birds/Wildlife Management Equipment.
Speaking at the commissioning of the equipment at the FAAN Headquarters Annex in Lagos on June 4, 2021, the Managing Director of the Authority, Captain Rabiu Yadudu, who was represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Alhaji Sadiku Rafindadi noted that the deployment of these equipment will usher in an era of safe flight operations, as incidents relating to birds strikes will now be a thing of the past. He added that the equipment are some of the best you can get around, as the Authority procured them on the recommendation of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Among the equipment commissioned include three (3) different models of Bird Scaring Gas Canons, Dayboxes for carrying Pyrotechnics during Operations for safety, 15,000 rounds of 12G (Heavy Caliber Bird Scaring Pyrotechnics), Hi-tech Bird Laser, Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) for staff dealing with wildlife, Purpose Built TYPE IV Explosive Storage Magazine, a Brand new Hilux Jeep for Runway Wildlife Patrol, amongst others.
The Director of Airport Operations, Captain Muktar Muye expressed his delight at the arrival of the equipment. He noted that what was being commissioned is not just the equipment but a complete package that also include the recommended storage facility, patrol vehicle and trained personnel in line with ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
Several other General Managers were present at the forum including; Mrs. Olajumoke Oni, Operations; Mr. Nehemiah Auta, Environment; Mr. Kabiru Muhammed, Special Duties; and Mr. John Ekpe, Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service. Other were, Mrs. Victoria Shin-Aba, Regional General Manager, South West; Mrs. Christabel Eromosele, representative of the GM Corporate Affairs; and Chief of Staff to MD, Mr. Lawal Abdullahi, amongst others.
