In a landmark achievement, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft that had been grounded for 23 years. This feat, accomplished by NAF engineers and technicians, underscores the service’s growing expertise in indigenous aircraft maintenance, significantly enhancing its operational readiness and aviation capabilities. The aircraft, originally designated "5N-MPS" and grounded since 2001, has now been redesignated as “NAF-039.”
The reactivation followed a Presidential Directive urging Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to transfer grounded assets to the NAF for evaluation. A team of 5 engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group in Kaduna meticulously restored the Dash 201 Series aircraft, which had only 1,081 flight hours since its initial operation. This milestone, achieved between June and September 2024, involved advanced engineering techniques and adherence to global aviation standards, reaffirming the NAF’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in aviation maintenance.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, praised the 431 Engineering Group for their dedication and highlighted the broader implications of the project. He noted that the reactivation enhances fleet strength, showcases resource optimization, and emphasizes the NAF's commitment to operational excellence. The achievement builds on earlier successes, including the first in-country 4,800-hour inspection of another DO-228 aircraft in January 2024, further demonstrating the service's growing technical autonomy.
The reactivation of NAF-039 symbolizes more than an engineering success; it represents resilience, ingenuity, and a dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity. As the aircraft joins NAF’s tactical airlift fleet, it strengthens the service's capacity while reaffirming its position as a leader in Africa’s aviation sector and a pioneer of indigenous technical innovation.
