The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken action against Mattini Airline Services Limited, suspending its Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) in the aftermath of a concerning runway excursion incident involving its Challenger CL 601 aircraft in Ibadan last Friday.
The NCAA, through its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, announced the suspension, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Achimugu underscored that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation, aligning with regulatory mandates.
"The suspension will remain in effect until it is confirmed that the conditions of the PNCF have been fully adhered to," stated Achimugu, highlighting the agency's unwavering commitment to ensuring safety standards are met.
Moreover, in a bid to enhance safety measures across private jet operations in Nigeria, the NCAA has initiated a comprehensive safety and economic audit. This move, according to Achimugu, aims to uphold global best practices and reassure the traveling public of their safety.
The incident, which involved a Challenger CL 601 aircraft bearing registration marks N580KR, prompted swift emergency response measures. Reports from Channels Television detailed how the aircraft, originating from Abuja, missed the runway, veering into nearby terrain upon landing in Ibadan. Fortunately, there were no casualties, with firefighters and rescue teams promptly mobilized to the scene by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Carol Adekotujo, spokesperson for the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), confirmed the incident, reassuring the public of the safe outcome despite the runway overshoot.
As investigations unfold, all eyes remain on Mattini Airline Services Limited and the outcomes of both the safety and economic inquiries initiated by the NCAA. The suspension serves as a stark reminder of the imperative placed on aviation entities to uphold stringent safety standards, with broader implications for the private jet industry in Nigeria
