The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) recently announced the suspension of ten private jet pilots who failed to comply with recertification requirements.
On March 14, the NCAA threatened to revoke the operating privileges of private jet owners who operate commercial flights. The authority also ordered on April 16 to carry out a reassessment of all non-commercial flight permit (PNCF) holders by April 19 to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
The authority, which planned to “sanitize the aviation industry” with the move, also suspended the licenses of three private jet operators to fly commercially.
In a statement on Thursday, the agency said PNCF holders were prohibited from using their aircraft for “commercial transportation of passengers, cargo and mail”.
The regulator said this was in line with Part 18.3.4 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023. “Due to the blatant disregard for this regulation, the NCAA had earlier directed all PNCF holders to undergo a reassessment, which must be completed,” the NCAA said.
“To this end, the NCAA has approved non-commercial flights from Ajikel Dredging Nigeria Ltd, Buri Aviation Safety Services, Ferry Aviation Development Ltd, Matrix Energy Ltd, Marietta Management Services Ltd, Worldwide Skypath Services Ltd, Mattini Airline Services Ltd, Aero Lead Ltd, Sky Bird Air Ltd, and Ezuma Jets Ltd have been suspended. The public is hereby notified that it is unlawful to engage with PNCF holders for commercial purposes.” according to the statement issued.
The NCAA also announced that it would take enforcement action against PNCF holders found guilty of illegal activities.
They also added that the NCAA has stationed personnel at the GAT and civilian wing of the airport to closely monitor the activities of PNCF holders, ensuring that they comply with aviation regulations and standards.
