The Federal Government Of Nigeria Grounds Dana Air...

 Festus Keyamo, the minister of aviation and aerospace development, has ordered Capt. Chris Najomo, the acting director-general of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to halt Dana Airline's operations while a thorough audit is conducted.

On Tuesday, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 aircraft operated by Dana Airline had a runway excursion at the domestic wing of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The incident happened after nine in the morning local time, which is why the runway where it happened was closed.

Nonetheless, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, signed a letter dated April 24, 2024, titled "Immediate Suspension Of Dana Airlines Pending Safety And Financial Health Audit," which expressed serious concerns about the safety and financial sustainability of the airline's operations due to recent incidents involving DANA AIRLINE.

However, the minister said that in order to guarantee complete compliance with aviation legislation, the audit of the airline should include all facets of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health.

“As the supervisor overseeing our nation’s aviation safety and regulatory compliance, it has come to the Honourable Minister’s attention that recent incidents involving DANA AIRLINE have raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of their operations.

In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travelers, the Honourable Minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted. This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.

The recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this matter, and it is imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved. I trust in your expertise and diligence in carrying out this audit thoroughly and expeditiously. Please keep me informed of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process.”