The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has addressed the public regarding the clearance given to the co-pilot of an Air Peace aircraft involved in a runway excursion at Port Harcourt International Airport. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, June 13, saw the aircraft veer off the runway after landing, though without sustaining any damage. The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) preliminary report indicated that the aircraft touched down significantly beyond the recommended zone, raising concerns about the crew’s performance. Subsequent medical tests conducted on the crew members led to accusations of drug and alcohol involvement, prompting the NSIB to indict the crew. However, the airline contested these findings, particularly regarding the co-pilot’s involvement.
The NCAA clarified its position during a public forum, asserting that its decision to clear the co-pilot was based on both internal investigations and the NSIB preliminary report, neither of which implicated the co-pilot in any wrongdoing. According to the NCAA, the co-pilot had even advised the captain to execute a “go-around” – a standard procedure for aborting a landing – which the captain disregarded. The NCAA deemed it unjust to ground the co-pilot for an extended period without concrete evidence of his involvement. This decision highlights the delicate balance between ensuring aviation safety and respecting the rights of individuals involved in such incidents.
The NCAA spokesperson also addressed the airline’s internal measures, emphasizing that while airlines are allowed to implement their own policies and protocols, these must align with the NCAA’s regulations. He acknowledged that real-world incidents often test the efficacy of existing regulations, necessitating ongoing review and updates to ensure they remain relevant and robust in addressing emerging challenges. This continuous improvement process underscores the dynamic nature of aviation safety regulations and the need for flexibility in adapting to evolving circumstances.
The NCAA acknowledged public concerns and assured that a thorough investigation was underway, led by the Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo. The Director General’s involvement signals the seriousness with which the NCAA is treating the incident and its commitment to a comprehensive review of the events leading up to the runway excursion. The spokesperson also pointed out that certain inconsistencies within the NSIB’s findings required further clarification, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and communication between the two entities in ensuring a complete and accurate understanding of the incident.
The NCAA underscored its adherence to internationally recognized procedures for post-incident assessments, including utilizing NCAA-approved testing centers for medical evaluations. This commitment to standardized procedures underscores the importance of maintaining consistency and transparency in investigations to ensure their credibility and objectivity. Pending a comprehensive response from the NSIB, the NCAA is awaiting further information to address the outstanding questions and gain a clearer picture of the events surrounding the incident.
Public discourse surrounding the incident also raised concerns about the airline’s handling of the situation and the potential impact on its reputation, particularly given its international operations. A participant in the public forum expressed apprehension about the negative perception this incident could create, potentially jeopardizing Bilateral Air Services Agreements. He stressed the importance of adhering to stringent regulatory standards across the board, emphasizing that the aviation industry operates under a unique set of rules that demand strict compliance. The participant’s comments highlight the potential repercussions of such incidents extending beyond the immediate investigation, impacting the airline’s image and international standing. He cautioned airline personnel against engaging in informal media appearances or making public statements that could exacerbate the situation, advocating for communication through official channels to maintain professionalism and avoid further complications.
