Air Traffic Controllers: FG Considering Retirement Age Review To Bridge Manpower Gap

BY GBOGBOWA GBOWA

In a bid to tackle the persistent shortage of skilled personnel in Nigerian airspace management, the Federal Government has signaled its intention to review the retirement age of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs).

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, made this known on Tuesday while declaring open the 54th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) in Abuja. He stated that the retirement age would be reviewed upward to retain experienced professionals and enable them to mentor the next generation.

Describing NATCA as the “Apple of the eye of Aviation,” Keyamo pledged full support to the ATC community, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring the safety of the nation’s skies.

“I listened to his speech on the age of retirement of Air Traffic Controllers. I think I am convinced it is something I can take up,” Keyamo said, referring to the appeal made by NATCA leadership.

He argued that if pilots are allowed to fly until the age of 65, there is no reason why ATCs should not be granted the same retirement threshold. He assured the gathering that he would consult with the Permanent Secretary of the ministry to study the proposal and seek approval for its implementation.

The aviation minister acknowledged the acute shortage of Air Traffic Controllers in the country and stressed the urgency of addressing the widening manpower gap.

In his welcome address, NATCA President Mr. Amos Edino highlighted the impact of mass retirements, the “Japa” migration trend, and inter-agency transfers on the sector’s performance. He warned that without urgent intervention, the ATC workforce could shrink by up to 70 percent by 2030, despite anticipated growth in aviation activities.

Edino reiterated the association’s call for an upward review of the retirement age to 65 years, aligning with global standards and other critical professions. He also noted that over 150 controllers had received international training in areas such as PBN, CPDLC, OJTI, UA Fundamentals, UTM Airspace Integration, and search and rescue operations.

He commended the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), through its Directorate of Air Traffic Services (DATS), for initiating the distribution of secured warm clothing to ATCs.

Despite these efforts, Edino emphasized that persistent manpower shortages continue to affect the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of air navigation services.

The 54th NATCA AGM was held under the theme: “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management.”