The Federal Government has inaugurated a Ministerial Task Force on illegal private charter operations and related matters in the aviation industry.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the taskforce would be engaged in taking inventory of all Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) holders and Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders.
According to him, the committee will among other help to determine why the practice of illegal charters by PNCF holders persists in the country in spite of regulatory controls.
“To call in all professional licenses of pilots and crew in the country and determine their authenticity and validity.
“To recommend to the minister, any additional measures to be taken by regulatory agencies to stem the ugly tide. To recommend appropriate sanctions to be imposed by the regulatory agencies on defaulters.
“To recommend additional measures to further monitor operations and activities of private aircraft in Nigeria and any other terms of reference that may be determined by the minister as the Task Force continues its work,“ he said.
He added that members of the task force had been carefully selected from within the aviation industry and were people of high repute and integrity.
According to the minister, members of the Task Force include Capt. Ado Sanusi as Chairman; Capt. Roland lyayi as Vice Chairman; Director of Air Transport, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as Secretary.
“Other members are -Theresa Babaoye (DATR-NCAA); One nominee from the National Security Adviser – Capt Daniel Quansah; Capt. Patrick Ogunlowo ; Obafemi Bajomo (SA-HMA).
“This Taskforce is not only a response to the current challenges but also a proactive step toward ensuring the long-term sustainability and integrity of our aviation sector.
“We expect the Taskforce to work for three months, except in circumstances that require some extension, “he said.
Keyamo canvassed the collective working diligently to restore confidence in the aviation industry, eliminate illegal operations, and ensure that every flight in the nation`s skies adhered to the highest standards of safety and legality.
He expressed optimism that such collective efforts would lead to a stronger, more secure, and prosperous aviation industry.
