NCAA Suspends Two ValueJet Pilots For Departing Without Clearance

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots due to what the agency termed a significant violation of aviation safety protocols at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The pilots had their licenses revoked after allegedly “commencing departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.”

Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed the incident in a statement released late Tuesday, noting that the pilots themselves reported the violation to the authority.

A 23-second video posted on the NCAA’s X page (previously Twitter) revealed that the aircraft involved was a CRJ-900ER, registered as 5N-BXS. The footage showed the aircraft taxiing from its bay while ground staff were still nearby, indicating it had not been cleared for departure. Some personnel were seen fleeing from the plane as it moved at speed from the apron.

The NCAA described the action as “reckless” and stated that it jeopardized the safety of ground personnel and “other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.”

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness,” the authority declared, explaining that the violation led to immediate enforcement action against the flight crew.

The statement read: “Preliminary information indicates that the pilot in question commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.

“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness. Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect.

“This suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident. The Authority hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli