Breaking: Minister Orders Dana Air’s Suspension Over Safety Concern

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has ordered the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend Dana’s operations, which aircraft was involved in a runway incident on Tuesday.

The Minister in a letter to the NCAA dated April 24, 2024 and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole said the suspension was for the aviation regulatory to carry out a comprehensive audit on the carrier and to ascertain the health status of the airline.

The letter read in part, “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 Air 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 travelers, the 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.”

He noted that the recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this matter, and swift and decisive action must 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 inform me of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process.”

On Tuesday, an aircraft with registration number 5N BKI belonging to Dana Air was involved in a runway excursion. The aircraft with 83 passengers was flying from Abuja to Lagos.