George Uriesi, Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, has emphasized that aircraft utilisation drives success in achieving profitability and operational excellence, particularly in Nigeria’s challenging aviation landscape. He explained that effective aircraft utilisation is vital for sustaining financial viability while enabling airlines to deliver consistent and reliable services to passengers. This operational approach is crucial for navigating the complexities of the airline industry and securing long-term stability. READ ALSO: 5,225 Delays, 190 Cancellations: NCAA Cracks Down on Airlines, Unruly Passengers
Uriesi explained that any sustainable airline business model must be built around high levels of utilisation. He remarked, “Your business plan for a year must be built on the level of aircraft utilisation you need to achieve to pay for the aircraft, pay everybody else, and still make something for you to run your business successfully.” Without this foundation, airlines risk financial instability and, ultimately, their survival.
Airlines operating in Nigeria face unique hurdles, with restricted operational hours being a significant challenge. Uriesi noted that sunset limitations at many airports drastically shorten the time available for daily operations. Consequently, domestic carriers often manage no more than six daily flight sectors per aircraft, which he called “a business-killing proposition” for operators of newer, costlier aircraft. In response, airlines strategically deploy newer fleets on high-demand routes, stretching operational periods beyond daylight hours to optimize asset utilization. Aircraft utilisation drives success becomes especially vital in this context.
Weather unpredictability and seasonal challenges further complicate scheduling, requiring airlines to balance efficiency and passenger expectations. Uriesi stressed that airlines cannot simply reschedule flights based on short-term forecasts without causing widespread disruption. “If you start doing that, you’ll not only delay passengers booked on those services but also disrupt other flights already scheduled for those aircraft,” he stated. This operational balancing act underscores the challenges of delivering services while maintaining financial performance.
Systemic inefficiencies add another layer of complexity, with frequent VIP movements in Nigerian airspace creating unnecessary delays. Uriesi criticized this outdated practice, contrasting it with global standards where such movements are expedited without affecting regular flight operations. He called for prioritizing improved navigational and visual aids across Nigerian airports, which would extend operational hours and enhance aircraft utilisation. Enhanced air traffic control procedures, he argued, could also save valuable time and resources, benefiting the entire aviation ecosystem.
Collaboration across the aviation sector is vital to overcoming these systemic hurdles. Uriesi emphasized the need for all stakeholders to align efforts, stating, “The entire system needs to work together to remove the obstacles.” While acknowledging that airlines can refine their operations, he maintained that structural reforms are essential for meaningful progress.
Despite these challenges, Uriesi argued that airlines must retain autonomy to determine their operational strategies. He noted that market forces ultimately hold airlines accountable for meeting passenger expectations, ensuring that service quality aligns with demand. “The market will eventually deliver a verdict on the airline if it keeps failing to meet the expectations of passengers,” he asserted.
In conclusion, Uriesi called for urgent reforms to address systemic inefficiencies and alleviate pressures on Nigerian airlines. He highlighted the need for better infrastructure, regulatory alignment, and operational efficiencies to boost aircraft utilisation drives success and profitability. He underscored the need for collaborative action to transform the aviation sector and secure its future resilience.
