NCAA suspends 10 private jet operators for failing to initiate recertification process

July 5 (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the top aviation regulator, has suspended ten private jet operators for failing to initiate the process of recertification.

Due to the blatant disregard of this rule, the NCAA had previously ordered all PNCF holders to undergo a re-evaluation, which was to be completed by April 19, 2024.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, Part 18.3.4, prohibit PNCF holders from using their aircraft for the carriage of passengers, cargo or mail for remuneration (commercial operations or charter services).

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, Marietta Management Services Ltd, Worldwide Skypaths Services, Mattini Airline Services Ltd, Aero Lead Ltd, Sky Bird Air Ltd and Ezuma Jets Ltd.

An official statement from the agency released on Friday and signed by Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection Michael Achimugu said: “The public is hereby informed that it is illegal to engage PNCF holders for commercial purposes. The NCAA will not hesitate to take enforcement action against any PNCF holder found guilty of illegal activities.”

“In addition, NCAA officials have been deployed to the General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of the airports to monitor the activities of PNCF holders.”

Anthony Awunor is a business correspondent and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also a graduate of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria-Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.