Dana Air’s wings have been temporarily suspended by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority following a recent runway mishap at Lagos airport.
The incident, where a Dana Air plane veered off into a nearby field upon landing from Abuja, prompted swift regulatory action.
With 83 passengers safely disembarked and no injuries reported, emergency responders and regulatory bodies sprang into action to ascertain the cause.
While awaiting the investigation’s outcome by the Nigerian Safety and Investigation Bureau, the NCAA has opted to suspend Dana Air’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) pending a comprehensive audit.
In a letter penned by the Acting Director of NCAA, Chris Najomo, the suspension was framed as a precautionary measure to ensure both safety and economic viability.
The suspension, effective from April 24, 2024, aims to facilitate a thorough examination of Dana’s operational, procedural, and financial aspects, as stipulated by aviation regulations.
Expressing concern over the incident, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, directed the NCAA to take decisive action. In a missive to the NCAA, signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the Minister stressed the paramount importance of safety and regulatory compliance.
Acknowledging the gravity of recent incidents involving Dana Airline, Meribole urged an immediate suspension of Dana’s fleet pending a comprehensive audit.
This audit, encompassing safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health, aims to ensure full compliance with aviation regulations and safeguard stakeholders’ interests.
