NCAA Suspends Two ValueJet Pilots Over Safety Violation At Abuja Airport

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two pilots from ValueJet after they violated key safety procedures at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

In a statement released by NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the authority said that on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the pilots began their takeoff preparations without getting the required pre-departure clearance.

NCAA described the move as a serious safety breach, saying it put airport staff and other users at risk.

The agency said it immediately suspended the licenses of both the captain, Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, Ivan Oloba.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirms that it has received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by a ValueJet pilot at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (Domestic Terminal) on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

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

According to the NCAA, preliminary information showed that the pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay “without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols”.

“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,” it announced.

Ithe agency further stated that the suspension would remain in effect pending the outcome of a full investigation into the incident.

KanyiDaily recalls that the NCAA recently sanctioned Kenya Airways for failing to properly care for three Nigerian passengers.