The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the operating permits of three private jet operators for conducting commercial flights, as stated in an official notice on the NCAA's website on Tuesday, signed by Acting Director General, Captain Chris Najomo.

This action follows a stern warning issued by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Monday, cautioning unlicensed private jet operators against engaging in commercial services, citing significant revenue losses to the Federal Government. Keyamo emphasized the need to enforce regulations and ensure passenger safety during an interview on a monitored programme, Newsnight.

In response to the minister's directive, the acting DG of the NCAA swiftly suspended the permits of three jet operators found culpable of conducting commercial flights despite prior warnings. Despite previous cautionary measures, these operators persisted in violating regulations, leading to their suspension.

Najomo emphasized that the decision to suspend the jet operators aligns with the NCAA's commitment to zero tolerance for regulatory violations. He further directed a re-evaluation of all Permit for Non-Commercial Flights (PNCF) holders by April 19, 2024, to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Additionally, the statement mandated all PNCF holders to submit relevant documents to the Authority within 72 hours. It also addressed existing Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders, stressing that only aircraft listed in the AOC operation specifications are authorized for commercial charter operations. Any AOC holder intending to use aircraft for charter services must seek approval from the NCAA.

The NCAA urged the traveling public to avoid patronizing charter operators lacking a valid Air Operators Certificate and encouraged legitimate industry players to promptly report any unauthorized activities for appropriate action.