The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced on Friday the suspension of 10 private jet operators for not starting the recertification process.
In a statement posted on the official X handle (formerly Twitter) of the NCAA, @Nigeriacaa, and signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the agency stated that all holders of Permit for Non-commercial Flights (PNCF) were directed to undergo re-evaluation, which should have been completed by April 19, 2024.
Achimugu explained that the suspension aligns with Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 18.3.4, which prohibits PNCF holders from using their aircraft for commercial operations, including the carriage of passengers, cargo, or mail for hire or reward.
NCAA said: “As a result of flagrant disregard of this rule, the NCAA had earlier directed all holders of PNCF to undergo re-evaluation which should have been concluded by the 19th of April 2024. To this end, the NCAA has suspended the permit for non-commercial flights of Azikel Dredging Nigeria Ltd; Bli-Aviation Safety Services; Ferry Aviation Developments Ltd; Matrix Energy Ltd; Marrietta Management Services Ltd; Worldwide Skypaths Services; Mattini Airline Services Ltd, Aero Lead Ltd; Sky Bird Air Ltd and Ezuma Jets Ltd.”
The regulatory body also notified the public that it is illegal to engage operators who are PNCF holders for commercial purposes.
“The NCAA will not hesitate to initiate enforcement actions against any PNCF holder found guilty of illegal operations,” the Authority warned.
Achimugu added that NCAA officials have been deployed to General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of the airports to monitor the activities of the PNCF holders.
