Aviation experts are raising concerns about the potential impact of the harmattan season on flight schedules in Nigeria. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a cautionary statement, warning pilots and airline operators to exercise caution due to hazardous weather conditions during the dry season.
Captain Musa Nuhu, the Director General of NCAA, has advised the public to plan their trips accordingly to avoid unnecessary flight delays. He stated that there is a possibility of flight diversions, cancellations, or delays if the visibility at the aerodromes falls below the required minimal operating standards.
Nuhu emphasized, “Winds over 10m and 925hPha are favorable for Dust-Haze propagations into the Northern parts of the country. Stations in the source region, Niger (Goure, Zinder, Maine-Soroa, Diffa, N-Guigmi, and 61091) experience horizontal visibility ranging between 800m and 6000m.”
Due to strong winds, the suspended dust is expected to propagate to several states in the northern part of the country, leading to reduced visibility. Areas that may be particularly affected in the next 24 hours include Katsina, Kano, Nguru, Jigawa, Potiskum, and Maiduguri.
In light of these developments, Captain Nuhu urged the general public to take necessary precautions when planning their trips to avoid any inconvenience caused by flight delays. He highlighted that the dry season in Nigeria is associated with various weather conditions such as light to severe dust haze and occasional early morning fog, which can significantly reduce horizontal visibility at aerodromes.
The warning from the NCAA coincides with a weather alert issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which predicts a deterioration in visibility due to the arrival of dust haze from the source region.
As the harmattan season takes hold, it is crucial for all stakeholders in the aviation industry to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions. Passengers are advised to stay updated with the latest information from their airlines and to make alternative arrangements if necessary. By exercising caution and taking necessary precautions, the impact of the harmattan season on flight schedules can be minimized.
