Two pilots with ValueJet, Oluranti Ogoyi and Ivan Oloba have been suspended by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for major breach of aviation safety procedures at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the NCAA revealed that the pilots initiated departure procedures from their designated bay without obtaining the mandatory pre-departure clearance.
“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” Achimugu stated.
The Authority expressed deep concern over the incident, calling it a violation it takes “with utmost seriousness.” As a result, immediate enforcement measures were carried out against the flight crew.
“Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The suspension will remain in effect pending the conclusion of a comprehensive investigation into the safety breach.
Reaffirming its dedication to aviation safety, the NCAA reassured passengers and industry stakeholders of its continued commitment to ensuring safety across Nigerian airspace.
“The Authority hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety,” Achimugu added.