To recover the over N47billion owed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) by airlines, the acting Director General of the agency, Captain Chris Najomo, has declared ‘no pay, no service’ on all debtors. 

Najomo, who stated that strict sanctions would be issued to defaulting operators, disclosed plans to set up a debt recovery joint task force to implement the cost recovery drive.

He said: “Hence, all debtors to NCAA shall seize to receive services from the authority. It is operation, no pay no service. We are instituting strict sanctions for defaulting operators.”

Najomo, while speaking at a press briefing, to roll out his plans, also mentioned that the agency is not oblivious of illicit activities of private jet operators operating commercial flights, saying any private jets who want to operate as commercial or charter operators must apply for commercial licence.

Highlighting the regulatory framework, Najomo said that only holders of Air Transport Licence (ATL) and Airline Operating Permit (AOP) with a valid Air Operator Certificate (AOC) are authorised to conduct charter operations.

Najomo maintained that NCAA would implement a robust risk-based surveillance system to close any potential gap opened by increases validity period of Air Operator Certificate (AOCs) for unscheduled and scheduled operators. 

He said the surveillance encompassing safety, security and economic monitoring will be extended to all service providers.

The acting DG further stated that the authority would intensify efforts in enforcing airline’s compliance with the Nig Cars 2023 part 19 on Consumer Protection Regulations. 

He said that in line with the assurance by the Minister of Aviation that air passengers must get value for their money, NCAA would ensure that airlines provide timely care to passengers for service disruptions adding that they would also ensure consumers receive quality services in the Nigeria Aviation industry and that their rights are always protected.

He reiterated the commitment of the authority to simplify certification and licensing system to streamline the approval process. This, according to him, will be extended to other authorisations, approvals and permits.