FG Asks IATA to Change Osubi Airport Code from QRW

• The Federal Government has requested IATA to change Osubi Airport's three-letter code from QRW due to a longstanding identity problem.
• The government argues that the current code does not accurately reflect the airport's official name and geographical location.
• Airlines operating flights to and from Osubi Airport will need to update their documentation to reflect the correct designation.

To address this issue, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has formally requested that the International Air Transport Association (IATA) review and change the airport's code.

The Federal Government has identified a longstanding issue with Osubi Airport's identity in Delta State, which it believes can be resolved by changing the airport's three-letter code from QRW. The government argues that the current code does not accurately reflect the airport's official name and geographical location. This discrepancy has led to confusion among travellers and stakeholders, who often refer to the facility as 'Warri Airport' despite its actual location in Osubi town near Warri. To address this issue, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has formally requested that the International Air Transport Association (IATA) review and change the airport's code.

The IATA coding procedure for airports is a complex process that involves several steps and considerations. Any changes to an airport's code must satisfy IATA's established procedures, which include ensuring that the new designation is available for assignment and does not conflict with existing codes. The government has suggested alternative codes such as OSU, OSB, SUB, and QSB, but the final decision rests with IATA. In aviation law, accurate identification of airports is crucial for smooth operations and to prevent potential ambiguity for passengers and stakeholders.

The correct designation of Osubi Airport has significant implications for airlines operating flights to and from the facility. To comply with the government's request, these airlines will need to update their documentation, including flight tickets, baggage tags, boarding passes, and reservation systems, to reflect the airport's proper name and location. This change may also require adjustments to international travel platforms and other relevant systems. The Minister has emphasized that 'Osubi is not Warri and Warri is not Osubi,' highlighting the importance of accurate identification in preventing confusion and ensuring smooth operations.

The Federal Government's request for a new airport code may have implications for airlines operating flights to and from Osubi, as they will need to update their documentation to reflect the correct designation. Lawyers advising these airlines should review the IATA procedures for changing airport codes and ensure compliance with any resulting changes.

Source: Original reporting via Punch Newspapers