May 6, (THEWILL) – Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Lagos, says its regional operations, when launched, will provide a single hub for domestic airlines, boost revenue through transit flights, and drive economic growth by creating more jobs.
Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO), MMA2, Mr. Remi Jibodu, stated this during a media parley to mark the 17th anniversary of MMA2 on Monday.
Jibodu said the expansion will open new revenue opportunities, benefiting all stakeholders involved, adding that the economic effects will be felt far and wide, from increased foot traffic at the terminal to enhanced commercial opportunities.
He emphasised that the airport has evolved into a symbol of excellence, innovation, and efficiency in the Nigerian aviation industry.
He stated that BASL, through steadfast dedication and tireless efforts, has achieved numerous milestones that have propelled the organisation to the forefront of the global aviation landscape.
Speaking on BASL’s achievements so far, Jibodu said: “One key achievement I am immensely proud to highlight today is the resounding success of our Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This innovative approach has not only enhanced the operational efficiency of our airport but has also fostered collaboration with private entities, enabling us to deliver world-class services to our passengers and stakeholders.
“Permit me to quickly highlight the contributions of our stakeholders who have been with us from the very beginning. Notably among them is the first airline that departed its aircraft from our runway, Chanchangi Airline Flight NCH 334, with aircraft registration number 5N BEU, which lifted 70 passengers and departed at exactly 17:15 on May 7, 2007. This opened the skies for numerous departures from our terminal.
“Today, we currently have a total of 10 domestic airlines flying out of our terminal daily: Ibom Air, ValueJet, Air Peace, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Dana Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Azman Air, Max Air, and Rano Air. We are immensely grateful for the partnerships we share with them.”
He also noted that MMA2 plays host to over ten thousand guests daily, including passengers, stakeholders, concessionaires and many others who come to the terminal to shop, eat, and fly.
“However, among our many achievements, let me single out one gem—the MMA2 Training Centre. This centre stands as a testament to our commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals.
“Through our state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on training by aviation professionals, we are shaping the future leaders of the aviation industry,” he added.
Advising the authorities, Jibodu pointed out that domestication of pilot training and setting up of local MROs will boost business as passenger figures are usually low whenever airlines are doing their checks overseas.
“For us, passengers are key. We should have more MROs and pilot training centres for pilots in Nigeria,” he advised.
Meanwhile, Air Peace, ValueJet, Arik Air and Aero Contractors airlines have commended BASL for making their flight operations smooth and efficient through their state-of-the-art terminal.
Commending BASL, Temitope Yusuf, who represented the Station Manager of ValueJet, said: “BASL ensured that we do prompt services. Their environment is good and the cooperation is there. We are grateful to them.”
Also commending BASL, Justine Chieke, who represented Air Peace Station Manager, said that BASL has done so much in terms of conducting CPR and other safety training.
A representative of Arik Air, Mr. Humphrey, said: “It’s not easy to manage a company like this but we need to see more new things introduced in the system.”
About the Author
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
