The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the suspension of two ValueJet pilots over a serious breach of aviation safety protocols at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The incident involved the flight crew initiating departure procedures from their designated bay without following the required pre-departure clearance, a move deemed highly reckless by the regulatory authority.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the authority confirmed it had received reports of the violation.
“The pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols,” Achimugu stated.
He added that the move endangered not only airport ground personnel but also other users within the vicinity of the airport.
“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” he noted.
Describing the matter as extremely serious, the NCAA said it had taken swift enforcement action against those involved.
“Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The suspension, according to the NCAA, will remain in place pending the outcome of a full investigation into the incident.
To reassure the flying public and stakeholders, the NCAA emphasized its unwavering commitment to aviation safety.
“The Authority hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety,” Achimugu concluded.
The aviation regulator reiterated that violations of safety protocols will not be tolerated, regardless of the individuals or airlines involved.
