The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar on Tuesday inspected facilities and ongoing projects at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base Kaduna in preparation for the 60th anniversary of the force slated for May 23-24, 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said Abubakar, was in Kaduna, Tuesday and inspected the installation of some airfield landing aids and ongoing projects critical to the successful hosting of the anniversary. He said, “One of the equipment inspected by the CAS is the installation of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) with its accompanying equipment, which includes the localiser, glide slope and Distance Measuring Equipment”.
He added that, to forestall any power interruption, a solar system powered by a 10 KVA inverter with 28 batteries on both sides has been installed.
The statement said, “The successful implementation of the ILS unlocks a myriad of possibilities for aircraft operations at the airfield situated within the NAF Base Kaduna, which is expected to witness an increase in flying activities in the weeks to come in preparation for the Anniversary.
“With the new ILS, pilots can now execute precision ILS approaches, enabling safe landings even in adverse weather conditions with limited runway visibility.
“This installation is also significant for NAF student pilots, as it eliminates the need to seek alternative airfields for practicing ILS approaches, thus streamlining their flying training experiences.
“Moving forward, the completion of the project’s second phase, encompassing the installation of solar landing lights and precision approach indicators, will no doubt augment the airfield’s capabilities.
“Upon fruition, aircraft will be empowered to conduct operations during low visibility conditions and at night, propelling the airfield towards 24-hour operational readiness while also serving as a beacon of excellence in aviation training and safety in Nigeria and beyond.”
Gabkwet said the Air Chief also took out time to inspect some ongoing projects which the renovation of the parade ground; the ongoing construction of the 72- flat accommodation for student pilots as well as repair of the aircraft shelters which would serve as the exhibition stands during the anniversary.
