ADVANCED PASSENGER INFORMATION (API) FOR NON SCHEDULE OPERATOR

The furore over the enforcement not introduction of API for non schedule operators by the government has obviously not died down considering statements and articles directed at this policy of late. The API for non schedule operations is primarily meant for safety and security while as a secondary measure aids the tracking of revenue. It smacks logic in the head when critical safety and security stakeholders pin this commendable policy on politics. I beg to differ, we should rather encourage an across the board implementation and enforcement. I also expect any government in power irrespective of party affiliation to continue the process in the interest of the industry and the country in general. In continuing the process, we need to move swiftly to the e-API, which is faster, saves times and reduce operational cost. It is also important to state that it’s not a Nigerian policy neither did it emanate from here. It was elevated after the 9/11 strike in the US and other audacious terrorist drills in different countries with aircrafts and airspace as primary weapons. Different countries have adopted it, the difference is the time frame given for filing the API which is determined by the effectiveness of IT portal, communication and other related infrastructure, the Mexicans recently revised the rules. The booming non schedule market has some challenges ranging from capturing appropriate revenue for government, safety, security e.t.c, using the reigning lexicon the rot is being addressed , hopefully it will transform to the benefit of the country if we are objective in our commentary, the focus here should be the message. NAMA should be encouraged to continue the enforcement, accelerate the e-API portability and ensure all leakages mostly associated to late night and weekend flights are blocked