NCAA threatens sanction against pilots, others working with multiple airlines

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has said its findings had shown that licensed flight crew members operate for multiple airlines.

This, it said, is being done by utilising the privileges of simulators and proficiency checks endorsed in their license.

This was contained in a circular NCAA/DGCA/AOL dated November 6th 2024 and signed by the Ag. Director-General, Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo.

Daily Trust reports that the crew members comprise pilots and the flight attendants on a flight.

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A source said some airlines were found to be making use of some flight crews working with another airline on an ad-hoc basis.

“They hide on the premise of simulator training and proficiency tests to be using pilots working with other airlines,” the source said.

According to the circular, instances where pilots operate for more than one airline concurrently pose risk to safety.

It said the licence issued to pilots or any member of the flight crew is operator specific based on the approved Standards Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The circular issued to Accountable Managers/Director of Flight Operations and Chief Pilots titled, “PROHIBITION OF AD-HOC FLIGHT OPERATIONS FOR MULTIPLE AIRLINES” read: “It has come to the notice of the authority through our surveillance reports that licensed flight crew members utilise the privileges simulators and proficiency checks endorsed on their license to operate for multiple airlines.

“The Flight Simulator Training Device/facility approved by the Authority is operator specific based on the training program and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for such an operator.

“Instances where pilots operate for more than one airline concurrently without safety considerations of such actions poses a safety risk to the industry.”

The CAA stated that with effect from the date of issuance of this directive, all operators and holders of pilot license are informed that this action will be treated as a violation of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.

“The Authority will take appropriate enforcement action on violators of this directive, effective from 11th November, 2024.

“Simulator renewals from henceforth will be tied to the operator. Please comply accordingly,” the circular added.