The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika has outlined some conditions which are currently being considered in light of a prospective reopening of domestic flights following weeks of lockdown.
Sirika outlined the conditions during the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 in Abuja on Monday.
According to him, “Regarding the tentative date for reopening of domestic flights from 21st of June, the explanation is that, this is an industry that is highly regulated, it borders on safety and efficiency.
“On the technical aspect, there are aircraft that have been parked for a few months and not been run. We want to ensure that between now and that time, these aeroplanes are good and safe to fly.
“The maintenance for aircraft is either usage or calendar time and there are protocols to the use of such aircraft. So, the airline industry needs to be able to bring those machines to safe operations,” he said.
Sirika added that on the issue of flight crews and carrier crew, efforts are being made to ensure that they get their licence valid again for operations.
He noted further that the medical aspect also needs to be considered as every pilot has a licence which must state that he is fit and able to carry out operations.
Aviation Minister also noted that even the airport needs to be prepared to adopt the new way of life which must reflect social distancing.