Safety concerns: After runway overshoot, FG grounds Dana Airlines

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has directed Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend Dana Airline’s fleet operations over safety concerns.

This is contained in a memo signed by Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, and made available to the The Star on Wednesday in Lagos.

Keyamo said that the ministry’s attention had been drawn to recent incidents of both safety and financial viability of the airline’s operations.

NCAA suspends Dana Air operations indefinitely

“In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travellers, 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.

“The recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this matter, and 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 said.

The minister praised NCAA for its dedication to upholding the highest standards of aviation safety.

A Dana MD aircraft, with registration number 5N BKI had, at about 9.45 a.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2023 veered off the runway of the local wing of Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja.

All the 83 passengers and six crew members were, however, disembarked unhurt.

The NCAA had in July 2022 suspended Dana Airlines’ Air Transport Licence (ATL) and Air Operator Certificate (AOC) indefinitely.

“The decision is the outcome of a financial and economic health audit carried out on the Airline by the Authority, and the findings of an investigation conducted on the Airline’s flight operations recently, which revealed that Dana Airlines is no longer in a position to meet its financial obligations and to conduct safe flight operations.

“The NCAA acknowledges the negative effect this preemptive decision will have on the Airline’s passengers and the travelling public and seeks their understanding, as the safety of flight operations takes priority over all other considerations,” NCAA had said.

The development came after Dana Air Boeing 737 aircraft with registration number (5N DNA) made an emergency landing at Abuja Airport.

The Star