NCAA Suspends ValueJet Pilots Over Safety Breach At Abuja Airport

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots following reports of a significant safety breach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s Domestic Terminal on Tuesday, August 5.

According to a statement signed by Michael Achimugu , Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA , preliminary details, the pilot allegedly initiated departure procedures from the designated bay without securing the mandatory pre-departure clearance, a violation that endangered ground personnel and other airport users.

Achimugu said the act breaches both national aviation regulations and international safety standards.

In response, the NCAA has taken swift enforcement action, suspending the licences of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect. The suspension will remain until a thorough investigation into the incident is completed.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, emphasized the authority’s commitment to maintaining the highest level of safety across Nigeria’s aviation sector.

He said “The NCAA continues to underscore the importance of adherence to safety protocols to protect all stakeholders involved in air transport.”

“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness.

“This suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.

“The Authorty hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety. ”