BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Flight Dispatchers Association of Nigeria (FLIDAN) has called for greater recognition of flight dispatchers as critical players in ensuring safe and efficient airline operations, urging stakeholders to strengthen training, adopt international standards and invest in modern operational control systems.
The call was made at the opening of the 2026 FLIDAN Annual Conference, where the association’s President, Mr. Daniel A Yuba, said flight dispatchers have evolved from playing supporting roles to becoming strategic partners in operational control, influencing every stage of a flight from planning to arrival.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Safety and Efficiency: The Flight Dispatcher’s Role,” the FLIDAN President said the aviation industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technological advancements, stricter regulatory requirements, environmental concerns, increasing operational complexity and rising passenger expectations.
He stressed that these developments require flight dispatchers to continually improve their knowledge, competence and professionalism to meet global standards.
According to him, aviation safety remains the foundation of the industry, while efficiency ensures optimal use of resources without compromising safety.
He noted that operational excellence can only be achieved through continuous learning, strict compliance with regulations, effective communication and adherence to global best practices.
The FLIDAN President described the annual conference as a platform for knowledge sharing, innovation, collaboration and professional development, saying participants would examine emerging industry challenges, exchange ideas and develop practical solutions aimed at strengthening flight operations across Nigeria.
Ayuba, commended the organisers, speakers, moderators, sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers for making the conference possible.
The association also expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for providing policy direction that continues to support the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
It equally praised the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for its commitment to safety oversight, regulatory excellence and support for professional development within the sector.
FLIDAN also acknowledged the contributions of airlines, Approved Aviation Training Organisations (AATOs), airport operators and other aviation service providers in improving safety and operational efficiency across the industry.
Reaffirming the association’s commitment to professional development, Ayuba said FLIDAN would continue to advocate improved training for flight dispatchers, stronger Operations Control Centres, competency-based development programmes, implementation of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and greater recognition of the profession within the aviation ecosystem.
He urged stakeholders to ensure that recommendations from the conference are translated into concrete actions by airlines, Operations Control Centres, regulatory agencies and training organisations.
The association specifically called for the implementation of ICAO Document 10106, strengthening of Safety Management Systems, adoption of modern operational technologies and expansion of competency-based training to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The FLIDAN President said flight dispatchers carry enormous responsibility because every operational decision they make has the potential to save lives, improve efficiency and strengthen public confidence in air transportation.
He encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, share experiences, build professional networks and leave the conference better equipped to contribute to the advancement of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Declaring the conference open, he expressed optimism that the deliberations would produce practical outcomes capable of strengthening the flight dispatch profession, improving airline operations and positioning Nigeria as a leading example of operational excellence in the global aviation industry.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
