Babalakin Steps Up MMA2 Regional Flight Preparations, Inspects Critical Facilities

BASL chairman demands strict safety compliance, regulatory approvals as terminal targets commencement of regional operations

The Chairman of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), Dr. Wale Babalakin, has intensified efforts towards the commencement of regional flight operations at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Lagos, following an inspection of facilities being prepared for the service.

The inspection comes after the recent signing of a settlement agreement concerning the MMA2 concession, marking a significant step towards resolving the longstanding concession dispute and allowing the terminal to advance plans for regional operations.

During the visit, Babalakin inspected critical areas undergoing preparatory works, including the regional arrivals area, apron extension and staff and concessionaire access gate.

The Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Aeronautical and Cargo Services, Mr. Remi Jibodu, led the inspection team and briefed the chairman on the progress of ongoing infrastructure works and operational preparations.

Babalakin congratulated the team on the progress made, commending its efforts towards delivering the required facilities within the stipulated timeline. He urged them to sustain the momentum and ensure that all outstanding preparations are completed ahead of the commencement of regional services.

He also emphasised the need for close engagement with relevant government agencies and regulatory authorities to ensure that all necessary inspections, assessments and approvals are secured before operations begin.

In particular, the BASL chairman stressed the importance of keeping the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) fully involved throughout the process to guarantee compliance with applicable regulatory, safety and operational standards.

He further directed the team to pay particular attention to finishing quality, safety requirements, operational readiness and effective coordination with stakeholders.

Speaking on the preparations, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of BASL, Mrs. Idunnu Oyebolu, said the company was pursuing a two-pronged strategy: completing preparations for regional flight operations while strengthening its capacity to manage the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the year-end travel season.

“As we put the necessary infrastructure and operational arrangements in place for regional operations, we are equally preparing for the anticipated increase in passenger traffic during the year-end season.

“Our priority is to ensure that our facilities, personnel and processes are adequately prepared to deliver seamless, safe and efficient passenger experience during this period. We are focused on maintaining service standards while positioning MMA2 to accommodate these developments”, she said.

Also speaking, Jibodu reaffirmed the team’s commitment to meeting the stipulated timeline, assuring that efforts would be intensified across all areas of the project.

He said the chairman’s inspection and directives would guide further improvements, particularly in strengthening engagement with relevant agencies and regulatory authorities and securing the necessary approvals before the commencement of operations.

“Our priority is to deliver on schedule while ensuring that the facilities meet the necessary safety, regulatory and operational requirements,” he said.

The ongoing infrastructure and operational upgrades are designed to accommodate regional passengers, improve passenger processing and facilitate efficient aircraft operations at MMA2.

The commencement of regional flights is expected to broaden travel options for passengers while strengthening the terminal’s contribution to Nigeria’s aviation industry and regional air connectivity.

BASL reaffirmed its commitment to the continued development of MMA2 and the delivery of safe, efficient and customer-focused airport services, in line with its promise of being “More than a terminal’.