NCAA revokes licenses of 10 private jet operators for ignoring recertification policy

Deputy Director General of Civil Aviation, Nigeria. Captain Chris Najomo

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the Permits for Non-Commercial Flights (PNCF) licenses of ten private jet operators for failing to comply with an earlier recertification directive aimed at curbing the misuse of private jets for commercial purposes.

In a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, director of public affairs and consumer protection, the NCAA said the operators had not complied with the directive issued on April 16, 2024, which requires a re-evaluation by April 19, 2024.

This policy was designed to ensure compliance with Part 18.3.4 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, which prohibits PNCF holders from using their aircraft for commercial purposes or charter services.

“Part 18.3.4 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023 prohibits holders of a PNCF from using their aircraft to CARRY PASSENGERS, CARGO or MAIL for remuneration (commercial operations or charter services).

“Due to the blatant disregard of this rule, the NCAA had previously directed all PNCF holders to undergo a reevaluation, which was to be completed by April 19, 2024.

“For this reason, the NCAA has suspended authorization for non-commercial flights by ten private jet operators,” The statement read in part.

The ten suspended private jet operators whose PNCF licenses were suspended for failing to initiate the re-certification process include:

• Azikel Dredging Nigeria Ltd.

• Bli-Aviation Security Services

• Ferry Aviation Developments Ltd.

• Marietta Management Services Ltd.

• Skypaths Worldwide Services

• Mattini Airline Services Ltd.

The statement also informed the public that soliciting PNCF holders for commercial purposes is illegal and that the NCAA will take prompt action against any violators.

In addition, NCAA officials have been deployed in the General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of airports to monitor the activities of PNCF holders, the statement said.

What you should know

• Since November 2023, the Ministry of Aerospace Development has observed and reported that some private jet owners in Nigeria have violated their licenses by operating commercial flights.

• In response, the NCAA issued a stern warning in March 2024, warning private jet owners against unauthorized commercial use of their aircraft and threatening harsh penalties, including suspension, revocation or cancellation of permits.

• Minister Festus Keyamo has reiterated this stance in numerous interviews in recent months and vowed to take decisive action against violations, including flight bans and the withdrawal of licenses.