|By Adejumo Adekunle-
Operators Accuse FAAN of Connivance
Passengers Endure Delays Over Missing Aero Bridges
International airlines operating in Nigeria lose a staggering ₦25 billion annually to aircraft towing fees due to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria’s (FAAN) failure to install already-procured aero bridges.
Unlike developed nations where aero bridges seamlessly connect aircraft doors for swift boarding and disembarkation, Nigerian airports rely on ground handling companies to tow planes to these facilities—at an exorbitant cost to operators.
Beyond financial implications, this inefficiency also forces passengers to endure at least 20-minute delays before disembarking after landing.
Aero Bridges Stuck in China Since 2014
An aero bridge, also known as a jetway or air bridge, is a telescopic corridor that extends from an airport terminal to an aircraft, ensuring secure and convenient boarding. However, despite purchasing 28 of these structures in 2014, FAAN has failed to import them from China, leaving airlines and passengers to bear the brunt.
Data obtained from FAAN reveals that the Murtala Muhammed Airport’s international runway records about 990 aircraft movements monthly and 11,880 annually. Ground handling companies charge airlines $1,350 to tow a large aircraft and $673 for smaller ones, amounting to over $16 million (₦24.6 billion) annually at an exchange rate of ₦1,534 per dollar.
Experts Allege Connivance for Financial Gain
Reacting to the development, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and CEO of TopBrass Aviation, Roland Iyayi, accused ground handling companies of profiting from FAAN’s inaction.
“For me, this appears to be a deliberate scheme to enrich ground handlers—just like generator sellers benefiting from NEPA’s failure,” he said.
Similarly, retired Capt. Mohammed Badamosi urged FAAN to explain why the aero bridges remain uninstalled despite being procured over a decade ago.
“If these machines have truly been purchased, why are they still not in use? FAAN owes the public an answer,” he said.
Operators have called on the aviation authorities to act swiftly to ease financial burdens on airlines and improve passengers’ travel experience. However, FAAN has yet to provide an official response to the matter.
