Weeks after the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) approved non-scheduled flight operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport for six months, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Friday began its calibration of landing systems.
In a statement made available to newsmen today on the state government Facebook page, the calibration signaled the final stages of preparations for commercial flight operations.
The NAMA calibration aircraft landed on the airport’s runway at exactly 4:13 p.m., with the calibration exercise commencing immediately.
Calibration in the aviation sector ensures air navigation safety by conducting regular inspections, fine-tuning test equipment systems, and surveilling airspace systems. It is a critical step toward meeting global aviation standards for safe and efficient operations.
Present to receive the NAMA team were the Technical Adviser to the Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Airport Project, Sunday Makinde (Rtd); the Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatubosun; Commissioner for Environment, Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe; Commissioner for Transport, Kolawole Akobiewe; and the Special Adviser to the governor on Media and Strategy, Yinka Oyebode, among others.
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Speaking with journalists, Makinde described the calibration exercise as a pivotal step toward securing final approval for commercial operations.
He explained that the team was assessing and fine-tuning navigational aids at the airport, including instrument landing systems, communication radios, and other critical equipment for safe operations.
“What’s happening here today is essentially a working flight operation. This calibration plane from NAMA ensures that our systems, particularly navigational and communication, can pick up frequencies from any aircraft coming to Ekiti. I am pleased to confirm that the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is fully ready for commercial operations,” Makinde said.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Information expressed excitement about the milestone, describing it as a “dream come true.”
He noted that the airport had undergone rigorous inspections and certifications from regulatory aviation agencies, confirming its readiness for smooth operations.
Olatubosun added that the airport’s completion marks a significant step toward unlocking investment opportunities, boosting tourism, and accelerating economic growth in Ekiti State.
“This airport will transform Ekiti into a hub for local and international connectivity, fostering business, attracting investors, and improving the lives of our people,” he said.
He emphasised that the development underscores Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to economic transformation and industrial growth in the state.
READ ALSO: Ekiti airport gets NCAA’s approval to begin operations this month
The NAMA team is expected to complete the calibration exercise and depart the airport on Saturday.
