Federal government suspends ten private jet operators

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced on Friday the suspension of ten private jet operators for failing to initiate the recertification process.

In a statement posted on the NCAA’s official X-handle (formerly Twitter), @Nigeriacaa, and signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the regulator said the agency has directed all Non-Commercial Flight Permit (PNCF) holders to undergo a reassessment to be completed by April 19, 2024.

According to Achimugu, the suspension of the operators was in line with Part 18.3.4 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, which prohibits PNCF license holders from using their aircraft for the commercial transportation of passengers, cargo or mail, which amounts to a commercial operation or charter service.

The NCAA stated: “Due to the blatant disregard of this rule, the NCAA had previously directed all PNCF holders to undergo a reassessment which should have been completed by April 19, 2024. To this end, the NCAA has suspended the authorization for non-commercial flights of Azikel Dredging Nigeria Ltd; Bli-Aviation Safety Services; Ferry Aviation Developments Ltd; Matrix Energy Ltd; Marrietta Management Services Ltd; Worldwide Skypaths Services; Mattini Airline Services Ltd, Aero Lead Ltd; Sky Bird Air Ltd and Ezuma Jets Ltd.”

The regulator has also informed the public that it is illegal to engage operators who are PNCF holders for commercial purposes.

“The NCAA will not hesitate to take enforcement action against any PNCF holder found guilty of illegal activities,” the agency warned.

Achimugu added that NCAA officials have been stationed at the General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of the airports to monitor the activities of PNCF holders.