NCAA suspends permits for non-commercial flights of three private jets

NCAA suspends permits for non-commercial flights of three private jets

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the Permits for Non-Commercial Flights (PNCF) licenses of at least three private jets for engaging in commercial operations.

Captain Chris Najomo, the Acting Director-General of the NCAA, made this announcement via a video press release posted on the official NCAA X account on Tuesday.

Captain Najomo emphasized that the affected PNCF holders violated the annexure provision of their licenses and Part 9114 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.

He noted the government’s stance against the commercial use of private jets, citing previous directives from the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, to cease such activities.

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“Back in November 2023, the use of private jets for commercial purpose had gotten the attention of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, who issued marching orders for cessation of such acts.

“Subsequently, in March 2024, the NCAA had issued a stern warning to holders of the permit for non-commercial flights (PNCF) against engaging the carriage of passengers, cargo or mail for reward and hire.

“The Authority had also deployed its officials to monitor activities of private jet terminals across the airports in Nigeria.

“As a result of this heightened surveillance, no fewer than three private operators have been found to be in violation of their PNCF and Part 9114 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.

“In line with our zero tolerance for violations of regulations, the Authority has suspended the PNCF of these operators,” Captain Najomo said.

Additionally, the Acting Director-General directed the reevaluation of all PNCF license holders in the country by April 19, 2024, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.