Assessment of Thunderstorm-Related Flight Disruptions and Airport Preparedness in Nigeria

A 35-YearRetrospective Study

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of thunderstorms on flight
operations and the preparedness of airports in Nigeria over
a 35-year period. Air transport plays a crucial role in
economic development, yet it is frequently disrupted by
adverse weather conditions, particularly thunderstorms.
These meteorological events lead to significant delays,
cancellations, and diversions in flight schedules, posing
safety concerns for passengers and operational efficiency.
The research employed an ex post facto study design,
utilizing both primary and secondary data. Primary data
were collected through structured questionnaires
distributed to operational staff at six major international
airports, while secondary data were sourced from the
Nigerian Aerospace Management Agency. The analysis
revealed a concerning trend of increasing flight disruptions,
particularly at Lagos and Abuja airports. Although there
were no thunderstorm-related crashes reported, the rising
number of delays and cancellations undermines passenger
confidence and operational stability. Hypothesis testing
indicated that thunderstorms do not significantly predict
flight disruptions, with an adjusted R² of -0.021, suggesting that other factors might play a more critical role. The study
highlights significant gaps in airport preparedness, despite
the existence of weather monitoring systems and emergency
training programs. Recommendations include enhancing
airport infrastructure, improving weather forecasting
technologies, and establishing robust communication
networks among stakeholders. The findings suggest a
comprehensive approach to mitigate the adverse effects of
thunderstorms on aviation in Nigeria, thereby ensuring
safer and more reliable air transport.