Following a runway excursion incident involving Dana Air at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has directed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend the airline’s operations immediately.
The directive came alongside an order for a comprehensive audit of Dana Air’s safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health.
In a letter titled ‘Immediate Suspension of Dana Air Pending Safety and Financial Health Audit’, the minister emphasized the need for urgent action to address concerns raised by recent incidents.
He stated, “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.”
Keyamo’s directive aims to prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens and travelers. He urged the NCAA to conduct a thorough and expeditious audit, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.
Regarding the runway incident, FAAN temporarily closed runway 18L/36R at the Lagos airport, reopening it after comprehensive clearing operations and inspections to ensure safety.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, assured the public of efforts to maintain a safe air transport environment.
Dana Air, in a statement, confirmed the incident involving Flight 5N BKI from Abuja to Lagos, with all passengers safely disembarked and no injuries reported. The aircraft has been grounded pending further investigation by the maintenance team.
As stakeholders await the outcome of the audit and investigation, the focus remains on ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance within Nigeria’s aviation sector.