The Federal Government has ordered the immediate suspension of Dana Airlines due to concerns regarding its operational safety and financial health audit.
In a letter to the NCAA, Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, stated that,
“In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travelers,”
“The Minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted. “
“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has also issued a statement on the suspension of the airline’s Air Operator Certificate.
Below is the communique by NCAA:
PRESS RELEASE ON THE SUSPENSION OF DANA AIR’S AIR OPERATOR CERTIFICATE
Sequel to the DANA AIR’s runway excursion at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport on April 23, 2024, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has initiated its in-house compliance assessment of this occurrence taking into account previous occurrences involving DANA Air aircraft, while the NCAA awaits the preliminary report of the investigation launched by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
Recall that in 2022, the Authority suspended Dana Air’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) over identified regulatory breaches.
Expectedly, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in sharing the concerns of the Authority has thrown his weight behind the need for swift and decisive measures to be taken to address pertinent safety and economic issues that may underpin some of these occurrences.
As a precautionary step, and in accordance with Sec 31 (7) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022, the Authority has imposed the immediate suspension on the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) of DANA Air to allow for a thorough safety and economic audit.
The safety audit will entail a re-inspection of DANA Air’s organization, procedures, personnel, and aircraft as specified by Part 1.3.3.3 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023, while the economic audit will critically examine the financial health of the airline to guarantee its capability to sustain safe flight operations.
The Authority is aware of the inconvenience this action may cause intending passengers of DANA Air. However, the safety and well-being of the travelling public is paramount. We therefore appeal for patience and understanding while assuring passengers of the protection of their rights.
This action is imperative to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved, including that of DANA Air.
This suspension comes into effect at 2359 hours on Wednesday, 24th April, 2024.
The NCAA remains committed to the safety of the Nigerian airspace.
Signed:
Michael Achimugu
Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.
