The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is resolute in its pursuit of achieving a 90% aircraft serviceability rate across its fleet by the fourth quarter (Q4) of this year.
The Chief of Air Staff Air (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar disclosed this ambitious goal at the launch of the NAF’s 2025 Aircraft Engineering Conference yesterday Wednesday 16th July at NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme, “Enhancing Aircraft Serviceability in the NAF through Strong Maintenance Culture and Strategic Partnerships,” the CAS noted that currently, the NAF’s aircraft serviceability stands at 72%, bolstered by substantial investments in spare parts, ground support equipment, and training programmes.
Chief of Air Staff
Air Marshal Abubakar emphasised the critical role of aircraft engineering in driving the service’s operational success, highlighting recent milestones in fleet modernisation.
He noted that the NAF has inducted 15 cutting-edge aircraft into its fleet over the past two years, including T-129 ATAK helicopters and Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft.
He further said, 49 additional platforms are slated for delivery before the end of 2026, encompassing M-346 fighter jets and AH-1Z helicopters.
He explained that these advanced platforms necessitate sophisticated maintenance protocols, which prompt the NAF to adopt a proactive maintenance approach to preempt potential issues and minimise downtime.
The CAS lauded NAF engineers and technicians for their outstanding work, including the first-ever in-country depot maintenance on a DO-228 aircraft and the revival of several mothballed platforms.
Meanwhile the CAS has established the Directorate of Aircraft Life Cycle Management (DALCM) to oversee all phases of NAF aircraft,from acquisition to retirement, ensuring long-term reliability and operational readiness.
He said the new directorate will oversee the entire lifecycle of NAF aircraft, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Air Marshal Abubakar encouraged conference participants to share their expertise and insights, stressing that “effective aircraft maintenance is the foundation of operational success.”
The conference provides a valuable forum for knowledge sharing, strategic discussions, and collaboration among engineering professionals.