NAMA expands advanced aeronautical communication network to 26 airports

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has expanded its Advanced Satellite System Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network (AFTN) from 14 to 26 airports across Nigeria, enhancing the country’s aeronautical communication infrastructure.

According to a statement obtained from NAMA on Tuesday, the upgraded AFTN “operates on X.25 protocols” and will serve as a crucial backup to the soon-to-be-commissioned Aeronautical Message Handling System (AMHS), which uses more advanced X.400 and X.500 protocols. This initiative is part of NAMA’s migration program to the global Air Traffic Services Message Handling System (ATSMHS), aiming to integrate Nigeria seamlessly into the international aeronautical communication framework.

However, industry experts have praised the leadership of NAMA’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Engineer Farouk Umar, highlighting his “commitment to technological innovation and airspace modernization” which has transformed NAMA into “a frontline player in global air navigation services.”

The extended network provides greater resilience and reliability for transmitting critical flight safety information, ensuring “that critical flight safety information is always available, even in the unlikely event of primary system downtime.”

This upgrade offers improved operational safety and communication efficiency for controllers, pilots, and the broader aviation community.

This development coincides with NAMA’s preparations to commission the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) Automation Project, further driving modernization efforts and adherence to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Umar’s leadership has been instrumental in accelerating Nigeria’s transition to cutting-edge communication systems, reaffirming NAMA’s dedication to “excellence in aviation safety, innovation, and efficiency across the region.”