In response to the recent crash-landing of a private jet operated by Mattini Airline Services Limited in Ibadan, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken decisive action. The regulatory body has suspended the Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) of the airline following the incident, which involved 10 individuals.
Mr. Michael Achimugu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, communicated the suspension via an official statement. He emphasized that the suspension will remain in effect until it is ascertained that Mattini Airline Services Limited has complied with the conditions of the PNCF, as stipulated by Sec 32 (4) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022.
Moreover, in a proactive move, the NCAA has initiated a comprehensive safety and economic audit of all private jet operations in Nigeria. This audit is a testament to the authority’s commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and adhering to global best practices, thereby reassuring the traveling public.
The specific aircraft involved in the incident is a Challenger CL 601 with registration marks N580KR. In accordance with statutory provisions, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the occurrence. While the NSIB focuses on the safety investigation, the NCAA has launched an economic inquiry into the operation of the aircraft concerning the terms and conditions of the PNCF outlined in its Annexure.
This suspension and ensuing investigations underscore the priority placed on aviation safety and regulatory compliance in Nigeria. As the details of the incident are scrutinized, the actions of the NCAA aim to uphold the integrity of the aviation sector and ensure public confidence in air travel.
