Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, Engr Ahmed Farouk, charged Aero-Comms and Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) departments to prepare for automation in NAMA, which has come to stay. Farouk emphasized the importance of this during a three-day training workshop on Aeronautical Information Management and collaboration of procedures for top-level management staff of the agency. 

The workshop, held in Lagos, centered on the synergy among critical personnel, highlighting the importance of integrated procedures. It aimed to enhance seamlessness and efficiency in the collection, processing, storage, and dissemination of aeronautical data. This approach aims to optimize the operations within NAMA and improve overall safety and reliability in airspace management.

Represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr. John Tayo, Farouk listed the benefits of integrated collaboration. These include ensuring implementation of real-time updates of critical data such as NOTAMs and weather reports. Creating protocols for collaboration during emergencies ensures rapid dissemination of vital information for effective response. Conducting joint training programs and simulation exercises helps improve coordination and response times among personnel. Automation in NAMA.

He highlighted other benefits, such as developing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that outline the specific roles and responsibilities of communication and information services personnel in various scenarios. He also stressed the importance of cross-training personnel to understand the workflows and challenges faced by their counterparts. Developing automated systems for data transfer to minimize human error and enhance efficiency was another critical point.

“Aero-Comms and AIS departments are the backbone of information management in NAMA. Without information and data, air traffic controllers cannot function, just as pilots cannot fly. The world has moved from analogue systems into digital dissemination of Aeronautical Information, hence the need for Aeronautical Information Management system which is strictly the responsibility of the two departments,” Engr Farouk said.