Air pilots, airline operators and others have been warned to be cautious of a severe dust haze/fog phenomenon which is prevalent in Nigerian airports as dry season set in.
Air travellers were however urged to exercise restraint and show understanding during the yuletide month as flights may be delayed or cancelled on account of weather situations.
The Director-General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Musa Nuhu gave the warning in an advisory circular signed by him in Lagos.
NCAA noted that ‘’this adverse weather condition is an expected occurrence and is to subsist from October in the far North; November over the North Central; and December over the Southern part of the country. In addition, early morning fog may also be experienced in the months ahead especially along the coastal areas in the South.
‘’This weather advisory circular is necessary to bring forth the evolving weather information to the attention of all stakeholders who need to perform their roles.’’
To ensure safe and efficient flight operations during this period, NCAA directed pilots, airline operators and Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) to be conversant with each aerodrome weather minima and ensure strict adherence to the requirements.
NCAA noted that ATC may temporarily close airspace when hazardous weather conditions such as heavy fog or severe dust haze reducing the visibility to below airport operating minimal are observed or forecasted by Nigeria Metrology (NIMET) while pilots/flight crew members shall obtain adequate departure, en-route and destination weather information and briefing from NIMET Aerodrome Offices prior to flight operations.
NCAA also directed pilots to exercise maximum restraint whenever adverse weather is observed or forecast by NIMET and briefed passengers accordingly. The agency, however, vowed to deal with violators and urged all concerned stakeholders adhere strictly to the advisory circular.
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