By Amofokhai Williams
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has ordered the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to immediately suspend Dana Air after one of its aircraft overshot the runway at Lagos Airport on Tuesday.
The Alarmee reports that over 80 passengers escaped death on Tuesday at the local wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport when a Dana aircraft overshot the runway on landing at the airport.
The letter which was addressed to the Director-General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo through the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, said recent incidents involving Dana Airline had raised serious safety concerns.
The letter has the reference number PS/FMA/MA/S.121/Vol. 1/99 titled, “Immediate Suspension of Dana Airline Pending Safety and Financial Health Audit.”
The Ministry said, as the supervisor overseeing the nation’s aviation safety and regulatory compliance, it had come to the Minister’s attention that recent incidents involving Dana Air had raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of their operations.
The ministry stated that in the light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of the citizens and travellers, the Minister had directed that NCAA immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Air’s fleet until a comprehensive audit could be conducted.
The government said this audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.
According to the government, recent incidents involving Dana Air underscored the urgency of the suspension and audit.
The ministry added that it was imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved.
“I trust in your expertise and diligence in carrying out this audit thoroughly and expeditiously. Please keep me informed of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process,” the letter said.
