Ghana Regulator Hails Aero Contractors MRO as Key to Lowering West Africa Flight Costs

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director General, Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, has strongly endorsed the Aero Contractors Aircraft Maintenance Organisation (AMO). He stated the Lagos-based facility will effectively service commercial aircraft. This includes all approved maintenance for airlines in West and Central Africa. Rev. Arthur made his comments after touring the facility at the Aero head office. The site is located at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

Reducing Regional Maintenance Costs

Rev. Arthur highlighted the direct link between aircraft maintenance costs and air ticket prices. He noted that flying aircraft to the United States or Europe for maintenance significantly raises the overall cost. This increased expenditure is then passed on to the passenger. Having a major African aviation maintenance hub nearby cuts down on these expenses. It saves money on long-haul fuel, crew costs, and navigation fees.

Industry experts estimate that airlines in West Africa spend over $1 billion annually on offshore maintenance. Nigeria alone contributes a large portion of this capital flight. The mandatory C-check on a Boeing 737 can cost an airline at least $1.8 million. A local MRO like Aero Contractors offers a critical, cost-saving alternative.

Aero Contractors’ Established Expertise

Captain Ado Sanusi, the Managing Director/CEO of Aero Contractors Limited, welcomed the Director General. Captain Sanusi noted the airline’s long history, established in 1959. It initially focused on oil and gas shuttle services. The company later expanded into scheduled flights and aircraft maintenance.

He proudly confirmed that Aero Contractors was the first to perform a C-check on Boeing 737 Classic aircraft in the West and Central Africa MRO region. The facility is certified by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). It also holds endorsements from several other international regulators. These include the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, the Senegalese, and Mongolian Civil Aviation Authorities. This broad approval underscores the facility's adherence to global aviation standards.

Expanding Capacity and Future Outlook

Aero Contractors’ MRO capabilities are substantial and growing. The facility provides both line and base maintenance services. This covers the Boeing 737 Classic and Next Generation (NG) series. It also services regional jets and turboprops. The company is actively working to obtain EASA (European Union Safety Agency) and FAA approvals. This will further expand its service reach and capabilities.

Rev. Arthur expressed genuine surprise and praise for the facility. He called the operation “unique by all standards” for the African continent. The availability of this high-capacity MRO is a major step toward self-sufficiency for the regional aviation sector. It reduces reliance on foreign facilities. This ultimately supports the economic viability of West African airlines.

• Key Takeaways for the Industry:
  • The GCAA Director General confirmed the facility’s potential to service all approved commercial aircraft in the region.
  • Aero Contractors’ MRO has the capacity for C-checks on Boeing 737 Classic aircraft.
  • Local maintenance is expected to reduce the high cost of operations for regional airlines.
  • The facility is certified by NCAA and endorsed by the GCAA, among others.

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