The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) engineers and technicians have successfully reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft that had been grounded for 23 years. This remarkable feat highlights the skill and proficiency of NAF personnel, showcasing their ability to restore complex aircraft to operational condition. The achievement also underscores the effectiveness of the NAF’s investment in training its engineers and technicians, who applied their expertise to bring the aircraft back into service. The Dornier DO-228, initially registered as “5N-MPS” and previously operated by the defunct Ministry of Mines, Power, and Steel, had been stationed at the DANA facility in Kaduna since 2001, as confirmed by NAF spokesman Air Vice Marshal Olusola F. Akinboyewa in a statement on Wednesday.
“However, sequel to a Presidential Directive for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to transfer such grounded platforms to the NAF for evaluation and possible reactivation, the NAF initiated this project,” he said.
“The NAF took on the challenge of reactivating this aircraft, a Dash 201 Series with only 1,081 flight hours since new, considering the task a unique opportunity to restore a valuable national asset. The reactivation process, for the grounded aircraft – redesignated
According to the NAF spokesman, the reactivation process was conducted between June and September 2024, and involved “meticulous planning and painstaking execution by a crack team of five engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group (Engr Gp), Kaduna.”
Akinboyewa said reactivation of the aircraft
required the application of advanced engineering techniques and adherence to stringent aviation standards, and attests to the NAF’s growing technical expertise and resolute determination.
He said: “The success of this project carries significant strategic implications, bearing in mind that, beyond enhancing the NAF’s fleet, it symbolises the Service’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in aviation maintenance for operational effectiveness.
“ It also serves as a morale booster for the NAF engineers and technicians, showcasing their ability to undertake complex projects which otherwise would be outsourced to foreign entities.”
The NAF’s spokesman said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had hailed the 431 Engr Gp for their dedication, and emphasised the broader import of the achievement.
“He noted that the project reflects NAF’s resolve to optimize resources, strengthen its fleet, and uphold national security through operational excellence.
“The successful reactivation of NAF 039 is not just an operational gain; it is a statement of our capabilities and our commitment to self-reliance,” the NAF boss said.
