Presidential Inauguration: FAAN orders airlines to relocate aircraft From GAT

Barely 20 days to the swearing-in of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has ordered airline owners to temporarily relocate their aircraft from the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja to alternate aerodromes.

A memo sent to all airlines with the reference number: FAAN/ABJ/NAIA/RGM (CN)/AM/1000/VOL 1, dated May 8, 2023, signed by the Regional General Manager, Abuja Airport, Mr. Kabir Mohammed and obtained by newsmen indicated that the relocation was necessary for security reasons.

The agency issued the affected airline owners till May 22, 2023 to relocate their aircraft away from the GAT.

The memo with the head: ‘Notice Of Temporary Relocation Of Aircraft At GAT To Alternate Airports,’ said that the presidential inauguration was a highly-security event, and in order to ensure the safety and security of all parties involve, it had become necessary to temporarily relocate all aircraft parked at the GAT to alternate airports.

FAAN stated that the relocation order is in line with the international best practices and expected all aircraft owners parked at the GAT to comply with the directive.

“We understand that this may cause some inconvenience for you, however, the safety and security of all individuals involved in this event are our priority. We believe that this temporary relocation is the best course of action in line with best international practices.

“If you have any concerns or questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”