The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has grounded the operations of ten private jet operators in the country, suspending their permits to operate as non-commercial flight holders.
According to a statement by Mr. Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the suspension resulted from the operators’ failure to commence the re-certification process, which concluded on April 19, 2024.
The NCAA’s re-certification process was initiated following surveillance that uncovered some private jet owners using their aircraft for commercial operations or charter services, in violation of regulations.
Mr. Achimugu explained that NCAA Regulations 2023 Part 18.3.4 prohibit holders of Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) from using their aircraft to transport passengers, cargo, or mail for hire or reward.
Due to blatant disregard for this regulation, the NCAA had previously directed all PNCF holders to undergo re-evaluation, a process which has since concluded.
The private jet operators affected by the suspension include 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 NCAA spokesperson warned that the regulatory authority would not hesitate to enforce actions against any PNCF holder found engaging in illegal operations.
NCAA officials have been deployed to General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of airports to monitor the activities of PNCF holders.
“The public is hereby notified that it is illegal to engage PNCF holders for commercial purposes,” Mr. Achimugu stated.
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