The federal government has expressed its readiness to adopt navigation aid drones in the aviation sector to reduce costs, increase safety and streamline operations.
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said the drone initiative can shape the future of aerospace development and complement aircraft calibration.
Yesterday, the Minister disclosed during a day Navaid Drone executive workshop on the subject of “Air navigation and safety advances organized by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in collaboration with LiviaSoft and Colibrex.”
The minister, represented by the ministry's director of safety, Chukwu Michael, said:
As air traffic continues to grow, the need for innovative, efficient and reliable solutions has become more important than ever. We are at the forefront of a new age of aerospace. There, cutting edge technologies like Navaid drones are revolutionizing how they approach aviation navigation, safety and operational efficiency.
“The integration of advanced drone technology is transforming the industry. NAVAID drones represent a new frontier of aerospace tools that not only improve safety, but also streamline operations, reduce costs, and open the way for a more sustainable future.”
He added that the adoption of advanced navigation and aviation safety technology will coincide with key areas under President Bora Tinubu's administration.
Engr, managing director at NAMA. Farouk Umar said aviation navigation and safety are the cornerstones of a robust and reliable aviation sector.
The DG, represented by Nama Air Transport Director John Tayo, said the need for an efficient, safe and sustainable aviation navigation system is important as Nigeria continues to continue the rapid growth of air traffic, urbanization and economic development.
He said: “The safety of passengers, crew, aircraft and seamless operation of airspace is paramount to maintaining Nigeria's position as a leader in the aviation industry in Africa.
“In this age of technological advancement, traditional methods of air navigation and safety management are complemented, and in some cases replaced by innovative solutions that offer greater accuracy, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. One such innovation is t.
“Navad drones are the cutting edge technology that is revolutionizing the aerospace ecosystem. By leveraging this technology, Nigeria can address key challenges in the aviation sector, including improving safety, improving efficiency, sustainability and capacity building.
“Integrating Navaid drone technology into Nigeria's aerospace ecosystem is not just a step forward. It is a leap into the future. It is in line with the Nigerian government's vision to promote innovation, improve infrastructure and position the country as a hub of excellence in Africa's aerospace.”
He added that collaboration with government, industry stakeholders and technology providers is essential to successful implementation of Navaid drone technology.
Liviasoft President Dr. Bobga Danjuma said the adoption of navigator aid drones will save millions of naira and prevent the loss of life.
Danjuma said: “This innovation is good for Nigeria and Africa because it allows you to avoid risking your life by calibrating and flying an aircraft. If you're doing calibrating, you might imagine that the aircraft has six or seven operators and pilots and crashing.
“Also, if you're using a large calibration aircraft, it costs between N20 and N40 million, but with a drone you can spend on the working side of things. You can spend less than N10 million on that drone service in one year on that aircraft.”
