Despite being recalled to operations, Dana Air continues to face scrutiny as unresolved issues raised by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) persist, according to documents disclosed recently.
In July 2022, Dana Air’s Air Transport Licence and Air Operator Certificate were suspended indefinitely by the NCAA Director General, Captain Musa Nuhu, following a financial and economic health audit revealing operational deficiencies.
Recent events have reignited concerns over Dana Air’s operations, including a runway incursion incident at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
A 2022 report signed by the then NCAA DG highlighted several operational violations by Dana Air, including operating flights with unlicensed captains, expired authorizations, and breaches of crew duty times and rest regulations. The report also outlined maintenance violations and financial challenges faced by the airline.
Despite the suspension, Dana Air resumed operations four months later without resolving these issues, which ultimately led to the recent incident.
For the suspension to be lifted, the NCAA outlined conditions including resolving audit findings, providing a detailed sustainability plan, and entering into agreements with creditors.
The Aviation Round Table (ART) criticized Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the ministry for allegedly bypassing regulations in grounding Dana Air, urging the immediate lifting of the suspension and an apology to the aviation community.
Stakeholders, including former industry executives and aviation experts, expressed disappointment over the handling of the situation, citing concerns about regulatory autonomy and due process.
The ongoing scrutiny of Dana Air highlights broader challenges in ensuring safety and compliance within Nigeria’s aviation industry.