FG signs MOU with Boeing to facilitate acquisition of modern aircraft

The federal government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Boeing, an aircraft manufacturer, to facilitate the acquisition of modern aircraft.

The signing ceremony took place on August 28 in Seattle, Washington, and was attended by key figures in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace, led the delegation, which included executives from major airlines under the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and other key stakeholders in the civil aviation ecosystem.

In a post on X on Thursday, Keyamo shared details of the MOU, outlining several critical areas of collaboration with Boeing.

“The highlights of the MOU are as follows: Leverage Boeing’s network of financiers and lessors to better position Nigerian Airlines to acquire newer generation Boeing aircraft,” Keyamo said.

“Provide enhanced technical support to help airlines introduce new or used Boeing Aircraft.

“Provide training in airline operations and business models to enhance airline business practices.

“Provide technical support via providing access to Boeing data such as maintenance documents, engineering drawings, parts purchasing, and flight operations documents to streamline maintenance practices.

“Provide Boeing field services representation in Nigeria or close by as on-site support.

“Provide leadership-development training to help airlines enhance their leadership pipeline.”

He added that the aircraft manufacturer will collaborate with airlines’ in-flight operations, maintenance, and engineering to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

The minister said Boeing will collaborate closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), working in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and regional regulators to enhance safety oversight in the region.

Keyamo said Boeing’s airport engineering team will provide consultation services to help open and expand airport capabilities.

He said they will also offer advisory services on the development of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).

On August 17, the NCAA said Keyamo is working to make the acquisition of aircraft easier for local airlines.

Chris Najomo, the acting director-general (DG) of NCAA, said the minister has been in discussions with companies like Boeing and Embraer to facilitate dry leasing for Nigerian airlines.