One week after flight disruptions, cancellations and diversions to neighbouring countries as a result of low visibility, skeletal flights have resumed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Recall that poor Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) the airport made it difficult for airlines to land or take-off from Lagos airport amidst the weather condition. Murtala Muhammed International Airport
For one week, most international flights were diverting to Accra, Ghana due to inclement weather in Lagos.
BusinessDay’s checks show that while some airlines are still monitoring the situation at the airport, airport few airlines have resumed operations at the Lagos.
Hadi Sirika, minister of Aviation, who confirmed the resumption of international flights to that Airport in a statement signed by James Odaudu, his director, Public Affairs, stated that so far 12 flights have landed on the international airport Runway 18Right while 13 flights have landed on the domestic Runway 18Left.
While appreciating the understanding of those affected by the unfortunate situation, he assured the government’s determination and commitment to the protection of Nigerian travellers at all times.
The Minister also reiterated that the diversions and cancellations are as a result of highly inclement weather conditions . He said it is not peculiar to Lagos or Nigeria, but a global phenomenon.
He also noted that the weather conditions in Lagos, and indeed every airport worldwide is not something that is noticed at the point of landing, as pilots are regularly updated during the course of the flights and therefore in a position to decide on the most appropriate airport to divert to.
According to him, ” Nnamdi Azikiwe International airport Abuja which has been in full operation,would have been the most appropriate for the affected airlines to divert to, if the overall interest of the Nigerian passengers was considered.
“The general public is once again assured of government commitment towards ensuring that full services that ensure the comfort, safety and security of air passengers are restored to normalcy, as all relevant authorities have been up and doing.”, he added.
IFEOMA OKEKE
