In response to the recent incident involving a Dana Air plane veering off the runway at the Lagos airport, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken decisive action by suspending the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) of Dana Air.
This swift measure comes in the wake of concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of the airline’s operations.
The suspension of Dana Air’s AOC, announced barely 24 hours after the incident, underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s commitment to ensuring air travel safety.
The incident, which saw a Dana Air plane from Abuja veer off into a nearby field upon landing at the Lagos airport, raised alarm bells within the aviation community.
Thankfully, all 83 passengers and crew members onboard the flight disembarked unhurt, thanks to the prompt response of emergency responders and regulatory agencies.
However, the incident prompted an immediate investigation to determine its root cause and assess the airline’s adherence to safety protocols.
While awaiting the outcome of the investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, the NCAA deemed it necessary to suspend Dana Air’s AOC as a precautionary measure.
In a letter addressed to the airline, the Acting Director of NCAA cited Section 31 (7) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022 as the legal basis for the suspension.
The letter emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough safety and economic audit of Dana Air’s operations.
This audit will involve re-inspection of the airline’s organization, procedures, personnel, and aircraft, as well as a critical examination of its financial health.
The goal is to ensure that Dana Air can sustain safe flight operations in compliance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has expressed dissatisfaction with the incident and its implications for aviation safety.
In a letter addressed to NCAA, the Ministry emphasized the need for a comprehensive audit of Dana Air’s fleet to address safety concerns and ensure regulatory compliance.
The Ministry’s directive underscores the paramount importance of safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved in aviation, including passengers, crew members, and the general public.
It reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and accountability in air travel.
As the investigation into the Lagos airport incident unfolds and the audit of Dana Air’s operations commences, stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments.
The ultimate goal is to restore confidence in air travel and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Through coordinated efforts between regulatory authorities, airlines, and industry stakeholders, Nigeria’s aviation sector can continue to evolve and thrive, ensuring the safety and well-being of all those who rely on air transportation.
