Bi-Courtney Pushes Seamless Fast Track Processing

Advertisement

BY ANTHONY OMOH

Acting Chief Operating Officer of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited, Mr. Remi Jibodu, has emphasised the growing importance of fast track passenger facilitation across Nigerian airports. He stated that this model offers swift, stress-free movement for VIPs and high-value passengers while maintaining smooth processing for their aides and protocol teams.

During a recent aviation industry engagement, Mr. Jibodu noted that this model is already operational at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), which Bi-Courtney operates. He explained that the model has improved passenger satisfaction, throughput, and overall efficiency.

“Our check-in process for premium travellers takes less than three minutes,” he revealed. “We designed the terminal to allow a smooth flow from the car park to the boarding gate.”

He stressed that poorly designed airport layouts lead to higher costs and inefficiencies. According to him, “Building an airport involves much more than installing a runway. A poor design creates bottlenecks and affects the entire travel experience.”

To tackle this challenge, he said MMA2 digitised passenger processing more than 18 years ago. This included installing e-gates and boarding pass scanners, which eliminated manual verification and improved security through data tracking.

Moreover, Mr. Jibodu pointed out that fast track passenger facilitation is not merely about having a VIP lounge. Rather, it focuses on premium experience across the entire terminal journey.

“VIPs still need to go through check-in, security, and immigration. Our premium process allows them to be escorted while aides process separately,” he explained. “That’s how you reduce congestion and create a true first-class experience.”

He described Bi-Courtney’s approach as being grounded in infrastructure design that balances aesthetics, efficiency, and income generation. “Terminals should solve real problems. They must attract passengers and generate consistent revenue,” he said.

He gave an example using Lagos’ cosmopolitan character. “In Lagos, people go to the airport to eat, shop, or even hold meetings. So we built a terminal with vibrant food and retail spaces—not just for looks, but for revenue,” he added.

In addition, Jibodu explained how Bi-Courtney is diversifying beyond aeronautical earnings. Traditionally, most Nigerian airports rely heavily on flight-related income.

“We’re shifting away from the 90:10 aeronautical to non-aeronautical revenue model. Our target is a 60:40 ratio,” he said. “That means investing in retail, events, parking, cargo, and digital platforms.”

He also shared that Bi-Courtney is exploring international cargo sales from MMA2, even without direct international flights. By leveraging land assets and digital infrastructure, they aim to build a sustainable logistics pipeline.

Jibodu acknowledged that operational costs are rising, while passenger traffic remains volatile. “With average domestic ticket prices above $100, passenger volumes drop. That directly affects airport earnings,” he observed.

To adapt, he said airports must offer services that justify premium pricing. “We build premium products that give added value, speed, and convenience. It’s about aligning service with expectations,” he stated.

He further explained that understanding the Nigerian passenger’s mindset is key. “Some travellers value privacy and efficiency over everything. If we give them that, they’ll keep coming back,” he said.

In his view, Nigeria’s aviation success depends on infrastructure that supports innovation, comfort, and economic viability. “Fast track passenger facilitation is part of that evolution,” he affirmed.

Jibodu concluded by underscoring the value of user-focused design. “The airport experience starts the moment a passenger steps into the terminal. What we sell is security, comfort, and convenience—right from the start.”