In a significant move aimed at tackling terminal congestion and improving flight efficiency, the operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2) in Lagos has announced plans to introduce a structured slot allocation system for airlines.
A First for Nigerian Airport Operations
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) revealed that the proposed system is designed to balance passenger demand with the terminal's available capacity. The initiative was detailed in a statement issued by the company's Head of Corporate Communications, Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, quoting the Head of Aeronautics and Cargo Services and Acting Chief Operating Officer, Remi Jibodu.
Jibodu explained that the structured slot system would bring multiple operational benefits. These include improved coordination of aircraft movements, a reduction in terminal congestion especially during peak travel periods, and enhanced on-time performance for partnering airlines. Furthermore, ground handling companies would be able to plan and deploy their resources more effectively.
If successfully implemented, MMA2 would become the first terminal operator in Nigeria to adopt such a slot allocation framework. This model is standard practice at the world's busiest and most congested airports, which are often classified as Level 3 airports by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Aligning with Global Best Practices
Major international hubs like London Heathrow, Frankfurt Airport, New York's JFK, and Dubai International all utilise slot systems to manage limited runway and terminal capacity. The move by BASL is seen as a direct effort to align MMA2's operations with these global standards for apron and airside management.
The plan has also received backing from local aviation analysts, who have long advocated for slot allocations in Nigeria as a viable solution to curb persistent flight delays and promote overall system efficiency.
Jibodu emphasised that this initiative is a key component of MMA2's broader operational optimisation strategy. He noted that insights gained from managing the recent year-end yuletide travel peak would directly inform efficiency-enhancing projects slated for 2026.
"The year-end peak period highlighted the importance of structured coordination among all stakeholders operating within the terminal environment," Jibodu stated.
Building on a Year of Innovation
In a related comment, Kola Bamigboye, the Head of Space & Premises Management and also Acting COO at BASL, described the past year as one of innovation and strong performance in customer-facing services.
He reported remarkable progress in MMA2's non-aeronautical services, driven by a deliberate focus on customer experience. "From retail and concession management to enhanced passenger amenities, our objective has been to deliver a convenient, comfortable, and engaging terminal environment," Bamigboye said. He added that the terminal is well-positioned to sustain this positive momentum into the new year.
The company's statement also highlighted improvements in security and passenger-support systems. The terminal's Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance infrastructure was credited with playing a critical role in monitoring activities and facilitating the prompt recovery of numerous lost items, including personal belongings and vital travel documents.
