Yemisi Olusina
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an advisory circular alerting all Pilots and Airline Operators of the hazards associated with the outset of the rainy season with the attendant thunderstorms that can impede flight safety.
Other adverse weather phenomenal associated with the season includes: quall lines, microburst or low level wind-shear as observed or forecast by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMET.
To this end, the NCAA has urged all those concerned to exercise extreme caution during flight operations, adding that it expects strict adherence to this directive to ensure the safety of air transportation in Nigeria.
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The Regulatory Authority has therefore directed that Pilots and Flight Crews shall mandatorily obtain adequate, en route and destination weather information and briefing from NiMET Aerodrome Meteorological offices before flight operations.
In the same vein, Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) and Flight Crews/Operators are also expected to ensure total compliance with all aerodromes operating minima.
General Manager, Public Relations, NCAA, Sam Adurogboye, says it is equally important for all intending air travellers and airline operators to note that in line with Standard and Recommended Practices
(SARPs) Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) may temporarily close airspace during inclement weather conditions.
The rainy season which is torrential, is prevalent in the Southern and Northern parts of Nigeria. It is usually accompanied by severe thunderstorms which could impact the safety of flight operations.
