The Nigeria Customs Service has recently expanded its air surveillance capabilities by acquiring a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B airplane. The National Public Relations Officer of the service announced that the Comptroller-General of Customs inspected the new aircraft in Bartlesville, Washington. This development is seen as a significant advancement for the NCS air wing operations.
The newly acquired aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA, is expected to enhance the service’s air patrol and surveillance efforts. With its reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is known for its versatility, short-field take-off, landing capabilities, and suitability for border security operations in Nigeria.
The aircraft is equipped with a modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations in various conditions. The Comptroller-General highlighted the aircraft’s capacity to carry 10 officers and provide six hours of aerial endurance, which will greatly improve air surveillance and border patrol capabilities.
The Cessna Grand Caravan will play a crucial role in detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing support for ground operations. It is expected to strengthen air border patrol capabilities and enhance the service’s ability to intercept illegal activities swiftly.
The acquisition of the aircraft is seen as a strategic asset that will support logistical operations and revenue generation for the Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd. The operational costs of the Cessna Grand Caravan are considered cost-efficient, making it a valuable long-term investment for the service.
The Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd described the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit. The new aircraft is set to revitalize air border patrol activities, improve border security measures, and enhance revenue generation for the service and the nation as a whole.
Overall, the acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan signifies a significant step towards enhancing the Nigeria Customs Service’s operational efficiency and sustainability of air surveillance programs.