The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently visited Magnus Aircraft Group in Hungary to explore potential collaboration on establishing an aircraft manufacturing and assembly capacity in Nigeria. The visit was in response to an invitation extended by Magnus Aircraft Group to attend its product introduction event, providing an opportunity for both parties to explore strategic partnerships.

During the visit, Magnus Aircraft Group showcased its latest innovation, the Hungarian MF-212 multifunctional aircraft, designed for training and aerial surveillance purposes. The Minister, along with his team, actively discussed potential collaborations for manufacturing and assembling the modern multipurpose aircraft in Nigeria.

Tunde Moshood, the special assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister, emphasized that the minister is particularly interested in integrating the MF-212 into the training programs at the Africa Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja.

The MF-212, a two-seater low-wing aircraft made entirely of carbon composite materials, boasts high aerobatic and operational characteristics. With the ability to withstand various applications, including private use, business flights, training purposes, aerial surveillance, military pilot training, and more, the aircraft has garnered attention for its versatility.

The CEO of MAGNUS Group highlighted the unique safety features of the MF-212, including the use of normal petrol (PMS) as fuel and a ballistic recovery system with a parachute pack, enhancing safety standards.

Notably, Magnus Aircraft Company has already established a partnership with the Ministry of Aviation, Nigeria, leading to the commissioning of a manufacturing factory in NCAT, Zaria, on May 26, 2023. This collaboration includes training programs for engineers at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) on aircraft manufacture and assembly, as well as type rating training for end-users such as the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and NSCDC Pilots and Engineers.

The impact of this collaboration is evident, with Magnus Aircraft products being deployed for agricultural purposes by NALDA and utilized by NCAT for security and surveillance duties. Deliveries have also been made to several African countries, highlighting the global relevance of the aircraft.

The minister and his team experienced the capabilities of the MF-212 firsthand during test flights, marking a significant milestone in potential collaborations between Nigeria and Magnus Aircraft. The establishment of an assembly plant in NCAT, Nigeria, further solidifies the commitment to technology transfer and growth in the aviation sector.

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