United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has revealed its intention to construct a Maintenance, Repairs, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Enugu State pending approval from the state government. The chairman of the local airline, Prof Obiora Okonkwo, made this announcement during a business meeting with Governor Peter Mbah in Enugu. UNA aims to build the MRO facility at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
The executive director/chief operating officer of UNA, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, disclosed to journalists after the airline’s management retreat in Enugu that UNA plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Enugu International Airport. He explained that most airlines operating in Nigeria currently conduct aircraft maintenance abroad due to the lack of such infrastructure domestically.
Okonkwo identified the allocation of land at the Enugu International Airport as the primary factor delaying the project, emphasizing that once the land is secured, the MRO will be constructed to minimize the need for aircraft maintenance outside Nigeria.
Okonkwo emphasized, “The MRO is a project of great importance to our chairman. If it weren’t for the limited availability of land at Akanu Ibiam Airport, we would have finalized the arrangements by now. The ability to conduct comprehensive aircraft maintenance is crucial for a successful operation. Unfortunately, aside from what Aero is providing, there is a significant lack of major hangars or MRO services in Nigeria. This poses a significant handicap, especially considering the type of aircraft we have in mind.”
Okonkwo affirmed, “Arrangements are progressing smoothly, and once FAAN allocates a suitable piece of land to us at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, this project will advance rapidly. We’ve already put in place measures to ensure the smooth operation of the MRO facility. During this time, we’ve noticed the need for improvements in aviation infrastructure to enhance passenger comfort, expectations, and experiences, as well as operators’ ability to provide efficient services. Therefore, we urge the government to prioritize upgrading infrastructure. We also commend the regulators for their collaborative efforts, despite resource limitations.”
Okonkwo noted, “Another aspect is the support services, including fueling, airport facilities, ground handling, conveyors, and other elements. We are striving to ensure a clear understanding of each other’s responsibilities in the service chain”.
