Flight Dispatchers Demand Reforms in Licensing, Salaries, and Work Conditions to Elevate Safety Standards and Fairness

At the annual conference of the Flight Dispatchers Association of Nigeria (FLIDAN), held in Lagos under the theme “Flight Dispatchers—The Ground Crew Behind Safe and Successful Flights,” the association’s president, Mr. Daniel Ayuba, called for sweeping reforms to address long-standing disparities in the treatment of flight dispatchers. Key among the demands were stamping type-ratings on dispatchers’ licenses to enhance accountability, mandating logbooks similar to those used by pilots to document on-the-job experience, and introducing policies that ensure consistent job placement and training for new graduates.

In his address, Ayuba highlighted the often-overlooked but critical role of flight dispatchers in ensuring aviation safety. “Flight Dispatchers are the unseen pilots, commanding operations from the ground to ensure safety in the skies. Yet, we are overworked, undervalued, and underpaid. This cannot continue,” Ayuba said. He emphasized the need for the industry to align with international standards and recognize dispatchers’ contributions with proper respect, resources, and remuneration.

Ayuba lamented the tragic death of a flight dispatcher two months ago due to overwork and poor conditions, a preventable incident that underscores the urgency of these issues. “How many more must suffer before change is effected?” he asked.

Key Issues Raised

Licensing Disparities

Ayuba noted that unlike pilots, who are restricted to operating two types of aircraft for safety reasons, dispatchers are expected to manage multiple aircraft types without type-specific licenses. He urged regulatory bodies to reinstate type-ratings for dispatchers, a measure critical to operational safety.

Employment and Salary Challenges

Despite over 1,500 licensed dispatchers in Nigeria, fewer than 500 are employed, and many licenses lapse due to a lack of opportunities. Those employed face exploitative conditions, including suppressed salaries and discouraged transparency among colleagues, a tactic Ayuba condemned as manipulative and detrimental to collective bargaining power.

Fatigue as a Safety Risk

Ayuba also raised concerns about the regular violation of duty hour limits prescribed in the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (NCAR), particularly in outstations. Fatigue, he warned, compromises decision-making and poses a significant safety threat.

Expert Opinions

Dr. Alex Nwuba, 2nd Vice President of the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI), supported Ayuba’s points, emphasizing the challenging conditions faced by dispatchers, including irregular hours, limited work-life balance, and high-stress environments. He proposed solutions such as optimized shift scheduling, stress management programs, and enhanced career development opportunities.

Former Ambassador Ayoola Olukanni added his voice to the call for reforms, advocating for commensurate pay, type-rating for dispatchers, and standardized training programs. He also recommended a five-year capacity development roadmap for flight dispatchers, involving collaboration among stakeholders to draft and implement sustainable improvement strategies.

Proposed Actions

David Olatunji, another industry expert, referred to ICAO Doc 10106 on competency-based training for flight dispatchers, emphasizing the need for advanced and role-specific qualifications to meet global standards for operational control safety.

A Call for Unity and Action

The conference ended with a strong resolution for industry-wide collaboration to uplift the standards for flight dispatchers in Nigeria. Ayuba urged stakeholders—airlines, regulatory bodies, and the government—to prioritize the welfare and development of dispatchers, recognizing their indispensable role in aviation safety.

“Together, let us advocate for change, align with international standards, and ensure that Flight Dispatchers receive the recognition, respect, and resources they deserve,” Ayuba concluded.