FG suspends Dana Airlines

By Abiodun OBA

In response to a near-fatal incident where one of the aircraft belonging to Dana Airlines Limited suffered a runway excursion at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA), Lagos on Tuesday, the Federal Government has suspended suspend the airline.

The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into the incident involving the airline’s flight 9J0352 (registration number 5N-BKI) carrying 83 passengers and 6 crew members which departed Abuja at 8:20 AM local time and arrived in Lagos around 9:20 AM.

The Ministry of Aviation in a letter to the Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo through the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, said recent incidents involving Dana Airline had raised “serious safety concerns.”

The Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development ordered the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend Dana Airlines Limited in line with the provision of standard and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), being the only regulatory authority which has the power to suspend an airline.

In the letter with 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 our nation’s aviation safety and regulatory compliance, it has come to the Honourable Minister’s attention that recent incidents involving DANA AIRLINE have raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of their operations.

“In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travellers, the Honourable Minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted.

“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.”

The minister expressed concern that recent incidents involving Dana Air have underscored the urgency of the suspension and audit.

“It is 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” Keyamo wrote.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has ordered the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to execute the order and an audit of the company’s finances and health.