Strict regulations needed to keep aviation industry safe – NCAA boss
Against the backdrop of apprehensions in the country’s aviation industry of late following the closure of two airlines and uncertainty surrounding others, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensure the continued maintenance of safe and secure flight operations of the country. the aviation industry.
NCAA Chief Executive Captain Musa Nuhu reiterated that the regulatory body will continue to implement its statutory responsibilities and duties to maintain the trust of the traveling public.
Nuhu explained that investigations were still ongoing into the suspended Dana Air operations and that the airline would remain grounded until all identified issues were resolved in accordance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig .CARs).
He revealed that the NCAA had carried out a financial and economic health audit in addition to the airline’s technical safety audit.
The outcome of both audits revealed a fragile financial situation and serious violations of Nig.CAR, which led to the immediate suspension of the airline’s Air Transport License (ATL) and Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC).
The NCAA coxswain expressed dismay at some negative comments about the regulator in some social media platforms based on interviews that took place on a television network.
He said “almost all of the comments during the interview were direct quotes from the NCAA’s findings from both audits. The details of these investigations and proactive actions showed the professionalism of the apex regulatory agency. »
He encouraged industry experts to seek clarification from the authority in order to make informed and balanced comments, adding that the NCAA is open to informed criticism aimed at improving the industry.
The detailed report of the two audits on DANA showed the determination of the personnel of the authority to ensure that flight safety and security come first and take precedence over all other considerations.
The NCAA suspended Dana Air’s Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) and Air Transport License (ATL) operations indefinitely in July due to the results of a financial and economic health audit and an audit technical safety measures carried out on the airline’s flight operations.
According to the NCAA, the airline was no longer able to meet its financial obligations and conduct safe flight operations, adding that its action was taken under section 35(2), 3(b). ) and (4) of the Civil Aviation Act 2006 and Part 1.3.3.3(a)(1) of the Civil Aviation Regulations of Nigeria (Nig.CARs), 2015.
