The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots over a safety breach at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a recent statement, Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s director of public affairs and consumer protection, said the authority received reports of a serious breach of aviation safety protocols involving a ValueJet flight on August 5.
Achimugu said preliminary findings showed that the pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.
“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” he said.
“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness.
“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 director said the suspension would remain in effect until a full investigation into the incident is completed, reaffirming the NCAA’s commitment to safety for all stakeholders.
