The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority branch of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers has publicly disagreed with its national leadership regarding plans to alter the Ticket Sales Charge distribution. In a statement released by Chairman Agunloye Fredrick O., the branch clarified that the national body did not consult them before proposing a reduction in the regulator’s funding, noting that the suggestion does not reflect the consensus of its membership.
The group emphasized that the Ticket Sales Charge is vital for funding essential safety oversight, including airline licensing, safety surveillance, and the enforcement of international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. They cautioned that cutting these resources could lead to reduced inspection frequency, equipment shortages, and potential complications during international safety audits, which would ultimately harm Nigeria’s standing in the global aviation sector.
While recognizing that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency requires funding to maintain its infrastructure, the branch argued that one agency’s progress should not come at the cost of another’s operational capability. They concluded by urging stakeholders to pursue evidence-based dialogue rather than internal competition, reaffirming their dedication to maintaining safety and regulatory integrity across the country’s aviation industry.
