The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken decisive action following a recent incident involving Dana Air by suspending the airline’s operations amid escalating safety concerns.
This move comes in the wake of an unsettling event where a Dana Air plane veered off the runway upon landing at Lagos airport.
The incident, which occurred shortly after a flight from Abuja, prompted emergency responders and regulatory agencies to swiftly respond and ensure the safety of all 83 passengers and crew onboard.
While initial reports indicate no injuries, the occurrence raised red flags regarding Dana Air’s operational safety protocols.
In response, NCAA wasted no time in initiating a thorough investigation with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau leading the probe.
However, pending the investigation’s outcome, the regulatory body opted for a precautionary measure by suspending Dana Air’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) effective April 24, 2024, at 23:59.
The suspension, outlined in a letter signed by Acting Director Chris Najomo, aligns with Section 31(7) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, expressed dismay over the incident.
In a letter addressed to NCAA, the Ministry directed the immediate suspension of Dana Air’s fleet until a comprehensive audit could be conducted, covering safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health.
The suspension serves as a stern reminder of the aviation industry’s uncompromising commitment to safety and underscores the need for thorough oversight to safeguard passengers and maintain industry standards.
As stakeholders await further developments, the focus remains on ensuring the highest level of safety and regulatory compliance within Nigeria’s aviation sector.