The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has expanded its Advanced Satellite System Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network (AFTN) from 14 to 26 airports nationwide.
The move aims at strengthening aeronautical communication and enhancing airspace safety.
The AFTN upgrade, which runs on X.25 protocols, will serve as a backup to the Aeronautical Message Handling System (AMHS) expected to be commissioned soon.
According to a statement by the agency’s spokesman, Mr. Abdullahi Musa, the initiative is part of NAMA’s migration to the global Air Traffic Services Message Handling System (ATSMHS), which will integrate Nigeria more seamlessly into international aviation communication networks.
Industry experts have commended NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Farouk Umar, for driving the modernization programme, which enhances the resilience of aeronautical communication and guarantees the availability of critical flight safety information.
The project, they noted, reflects NAMA’s growing role as a key player in global air navigation services.
The development comes as the agency prepares to commission the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) Automation Project, expected to further transform Nigeria’s airspace management and align it with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen