National Carrier: Aviation Experts Caution FG

The Aviation Round Table (ART), a think-tank group in the industry has warned the federal government that its plan to establish a successful national carrier may not be realised through the government’s approach, which according to the group lacks transparency.

The body condemned the procedure in which aviation agency heads were made members of the national carrier committee.

They argued that the industry regulators should not participate in the establishment of an airline that would compete with other domestic carriers, saying it sends the message that there would be no level playing field.

ART therefore urged the federal government to follow due process in the registration of the proposed airline, in order to show that the planned carrier was not being given undue advantage over others already in existence.

“The ART is not in sync with the committee made up of government agency heads to midwife the process of setting up the proposed national carrier.

We as professionals in the industry are advising a cautious approach to this project,” the body said in a statement signed by its spokesman, Olu Ohunayo.

“We would perhaps encourage not just a minimal involvement of government in the process but also her restriction to establishing a level playing field for the Nigerian public’s participation as investors.

“If and when as expected, this process goes ahead towards the finish line, it would be helpful to consider the employment of reputable head- hunters in the nomination of even the start-up management team as “management challenges” played a prominent role in the demise of previous failed attempts,” ART said.

The body also expressed doubt if the government would realise its objective if it continues with the current procedure in its bid to establish a national airline.

“It is also noted that the concurrent missteps of participation in the past, contributed to make such projects a mirage.

“We expect government to carefully and transparently work out the involvement of operating local airlines that may be seriously considered.

“ART’s position is patriotic and so geared toward avoiding the possible colossal and usual loss of both revenue and man hours from our commonwealth as experienced with the past unguided attempts.

“Whichever way it goes, we wish our dear country Nigeria the very best,” the body added.