IKEJA – The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) on Thursday alleged that some individuals were against the release of aviation funds for the purchase of safety instruments.
This is contained in a letter from the association’s President, Mr Benjamin Okeowu in Lagos, addressed to the Aviation Minister, Mr Osita Chidoka.
The letter, with reference, ATSSSAN/ADM/MOA/Vol.4/185, was dated Nov. 18.
It said that ATSSSAN cannot fold its hands and allow the already collapsing domestic airlines incur avoidable expenses on engine repairs and replacements, as a result of bird strike.
“As critical stakeholders and a pressure group in the industry, we are constrained to request further information from your honourable office on the state of these purchases.
“This is to enable us direct our agitations appropriately,” the letter quoted Okeowu as saying.
It said that a few Nigerians cannot continue to toy with the lives of Nigerians and the flying public.
“You will agree with us that the equipment are very critical to the safe take-off and landing of aircraft,” the letter said.
ATSSSAN reminded the minister that a part of the aviation master plan was the purchase and installation of critical safety equipment.
It listed the equipment as the airfield lightening Instrument Landing System (ILS).
The letter noted others as the high tech Bird strike prevention instruments, among others.
“You will recall, Honourable Minister, that in our presentation to you on assumption of office at the first interactive session with stakeholders,“We did emphasise that the Aviation Industry currently
had a master plan.
“This master plan is under the transformation agenda of the Aviation Sector by President Goodluck Jonathan, as was vigorously pursued by your predecessor, Princess Stella Oduah,” ATSSSAN added. (NAN)
