The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has completed the installation of new Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN) systems in 26 airports across the country, a major step in modernising Nigeria’s air navigation infrastructure.
The milestone, announced during a sensitisation workshop in Lagos, is expected to boost communication efficiency and reinforce aviation safety nationwide.
The AFTN is a globally recognised network for transmitting crucial aeronautical messages, including flight plans, meteorological updates, and emergency alerts, between air traffic control centres, airlines, and weather stations.
NAMA’s Director of Air Traffic Services, John Tayo, explained that the upgraded systems run on the familiar X.25 protocol but utilise advanced satellite technology to deliver greater reliability, wider coverage, and faster message transmission.
“The new AFTN systems also provide a strong fallback to the Air Traffic Service Message Handling System (AMHS), ensuring continuity of operations in the event of disruptions,” Tayo stated.
According to NAMA, the upgrade offers several benefits, such as improved safety through faster relay of flight-critical information, enhanced operational efficiency for air traffic management, and seamless integration with the global International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) network.
With installations completed at 26 airports, the project ensures that both major and regional airports are fully networked, creating a robust communication backbone to support Nigeria’s aviation expansion.
Tayo said the initiative reflects NAMA’s commitment to safety, operational excellence, and technological growth, while encouraging technical and operational personnel to fully leverage the systems’ capabilities.