The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to private jet owners engaged in commercial services, stating that they risk losing their licenses if found non-compliant. The announcement was made by the acting Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, during the unveiling of the agency’s projects for 2024 in Lagos.
The move comes in the wake of a November incident where a private jet departing from the Federal Capital Territory crash-landed before reaching the Ibadan airport. The National Safety Investigation Bureau had criticized the operator, Flints Aero Services Limited, stating that the permit issued was for a non-commercial flight.
Najomo underscored the importance of private jet operators obtaining a commercial license for commercial or charter operations. He highlighted the regulatory framework, stating that only holders of an Air Transport License and airline operating permit with a valid air operator certificate were authorized to conduct charter operations.
The NCAA’s director-general emphasized increased surveillance on jets not complying with commercial operation regulations. Najomo disclosed plans for sting operations to ensure that operators failing to obtain an Air Operator Certificate cease their commercial operations.
Additionally, Najomo expressed the NCAA’s commitment to simplifying certification and licensing processes, aiming to facilitate ease of doing business in the aviation sector. The warning serves as a proactive measure to ensure compliance with regulations and enhance safety within the private jet industry in Nigeria.
