Stories by Chinedu Eze
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called on customers of aircraft charter services to verify if the aircraft deployed to provide them service has the right permit for charter operation.
The warning was a reaction to recent incidents that took place at Ibadan airport involving operators violating their permits and engaging in ilicit charter services.
Acting Director General, NCAA, Captain Chris Njomo, who gave the advice, emphasised that insurance coverage for charter flights only applies to operators with the proper license without which passengers would be taking significant risk in the event of an accident or incident.
The NCAA clarified that Permit for Non Commercial Flight (PNCF) holders can only be used for private, non-commercial purposes as carrying passengers, cargo, or mail for hire is strictly prohibited.
To ensure passenger safety and security, the NCAA Director General said, it is intensifying its oversight and enforcement efforts and violators would face immediate consequences, including suspension, withdrawal, or even revocation of their PNCF.
“This is a stern warning to all PNCF holders that it is no longer business as usual for violators of these conditions, of their permits, NCAA solicits the cooperation and understanding of all,” the NCAA Director General said.
To help the public make informed choices, the NCAA has published a list of licensed and eligible charter operators on its website.
“This is a serious matter. We will not tolerate operators who put passengers at risk by exceeding their permitted activities,” he warned, adding that before booking a private jet, the NCAA strongly encourages everyone to verify the operator’s license and ensure they are authorised for commercial charter flights.
