The Federal Government has improved access to aircraft for Nigerian airlines by signing the updated Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA) document. This new procedure, signed by the Acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, allows aircraft lessors to swiftly recover their assets in the event of airline defaults.
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, emphasized the significance of the Cape Town Convention and IDERA, noting that previous delays in deregistration had caused Nigeria to be blacklisted by global lessors and financiers. The signing now opens opportunities for Nigerian airlines to access dry-lease aircraft, reducing operational delays and cancellations.
The minister explained that both judicial and administrative routes are now available to lessors for aircraft deregistration. This move is expected to enhance Nigeria’s reputation in the aviation sector, attract more financiers, and support the growth of the country’s airlines.
Keyamo highlighted that delays in negotiations for aircraft leases, which had been on hold due to Nigeria’s non-compliance with global aviation protocols, would now resume following the signing. The updated IDERA allows for the retrieval of aircraft from Nigeria within five days, ensuring streamlined procedures and improving the nation’s standing in the aviation industry.
