NCAA Introduces Tough Measures To Check Airlines

To ensure strict adher
ence to regulations and safety in air operations, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has introduced measures to eliminate the excesses of airlines.
NCCA says airlines on scheduled service are no longer allowed to defer aircraft maintenance dates and are mandated to retain their pilots, engineers and cabin crew on a regular basis.
The authority said in the past the regulatory body used to grant waivers to airlines which may  have logistic and other reasons not to go for checks when due, but the new measures have erased such possibilities.  With the new rules any aircraft due for maintenance that is not ferried out is grounded by the authorities.
Also a pilot may have his licence withdrawn if he facts to go for stimulator training at the scheduled time, same with medical checkup.
Meanwhile the new stance of NCAA was prompted by the last air crash which was attributed in part to negligence by the concerned authorities, as the aircraft according preliminary report was deemed not air worthy to fly.
NCAA source also said that although the Ministry of Aviation has it as policy that the maximum years an aircraft should be allowed to register and be used for commercial scheduled services is 22 years but to ensure that the aircraft is safe, the regulatory body has to ensure that any aircraft flying in the nation’s airspace is airworthy.
“The 22 years maximum for a commercial aircraft is a policy from the Ministry of Aviation.  We have not received anything to the contrary but we have to ensure that the aircraft is properly maintained and whatever we cannot do in Nigeria, we do it outside”.
The source revealed that the new measures are aimed at ensuring that Nigeria does not record any air mishap, especially anyone involving commercial airliner. To ensure strict adherence to regulations, we have decided to put an end to waivers, which means that aircraft is taken out anytime it is due for maintenance.
“These rules were there before but what is important is enforcement. We have decided to enforce the rules to the letter.  In the past people sound tough in public statements but do another thing.  This time it is different”, the source said.
He admitted that incidents could happen but serious incidents would be rare, adding that there would still be human shortcomings because the system is not perfect.
“Incidents will happen because the system is not perfect.  In NCAA welfare is an issue some workers earn better than their bosses and for the senior officers, they see their work as a sacrifice and this could sometimes affect dedication” he stated, adding that it would be better if Nigerian airlines operate modern aircraft which would be good for the passengers and the industry but aged aircraft that is airworthy is as good as new aircraft.

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (right) being received by the Deputy Speaker of Jigawa State House of Assembly, Alhaji Audu Dauda at Dutse International Airport last Wednesday. Photo: NAN