FAAN developing instruments to enhance air cargo operations – MD

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says its Directorate of Cargo Development and Services (DCDS) is currently finalizing two key instruments that will shape and enhance the future of air cargo operations in the country.

The FAAN Managing Director, Mr. Olubunmi Kuku, disclosed this while recently inaugurating two high-level, multi-disciplinary committees to drive this initiative.

The taskforce brings together core stakeholders from Finance, Legal, Commercial, Aviation Security, Operations, and the Cargo Directorate itself. This collaborative approach ensures that every internal perspective is captured, guaranteeing that the new policies are practical, comprehensive, and aligned with global best practices.

The two instruments are: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): In a major step toward standardization, the DCDS has directed all cargo warehouse operators, terminal operators, ground handlers, and government agencies to submit their current SOPs.

The objective is to harmonize these procedures across all FAAN-managed airports. This initiative aims to eliminate discrepancies, enforce international compliance, and establish a uniform standard of service delivery. As a first step, draft SOPs have been sent to ground handlers for initial review, with internal scrutiny by the DCDS-led team to follow.

Memoranda of Understanding (MOU): The DCDS is also leading the development of MOUs to formalize working relationships with government agencies. Once the working documents are ready, these MOUs will clearly define roles, responsibilities, and operational conditions, ensuring seamless collaboration and adherence to FAAN’s regulatory mandate.

In a parallel but complementary committee, the Directorate of Legal Services (DLS) is also leading the development of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with airlines.

This comprehensive approach underscores FAAN’s commitment to fostering a transparent, efficient, and world-class cargo and passenger (SLAs) environment.

The DCDS remains at the forefront, steering these collaborative efforts to build a legacy of excellence for Nigerian aviation.