The Ministry of Aviation has directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend the operations of Dana Airlines Ltd with immediate effect.
The suspension according to the Aviation ministry will give room for a safety and financial health audit to be conducted on the airline.
The order followed an incident involving a Dana Air plane at Lagos airport on April 23, which forced aviation authorities to divert flights from local to international airport.
The decision was announced by Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo in a letter signed by the permanent secretary, Dr Emmanuel Meribole.
The Ministry of Aviation in the letter to the Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo titled “Immediate suspension of Dana Airline pending safety and financial health audit stated that recent incidents involving Dana Airline had raised “serious safety concerns.”
“As the supervisor overseeing our nation’s aviation safety and regulatory compliance, it has come to the 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.
In line with the provision of standard and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), only the regulatory authority which is the NCAA has the power to suspend an airline.
