NCAA Suspends ValueJet Pilots Over Serious Safety Violation at Abuja Airport

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the licenses of two pilots from ValueJet airline following a “serious breach of aviation safety protocols” at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, has prompted immediate enforcement action from the regulatory body.

According to a statement released by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the pilots commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without obtaining the mandatory pre-departure clearance. The NCAA described this action as “reckless,” stating that it endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, in direct violation of established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

The licenses of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, have been suspended with immediate effect. This suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident. The NCAA has reaffirmed its commitment to aviation safety and assured all stakeholders that it remains dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure aviation environment in Nigeria.