By Emmanuel Obisue
Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has revoked the Air Operator Certificates, AOCs of Omni-Blu Aviation and Eastwind Aviation after both companies were found guilty of falsifying, altering, or reproducing crucial aviation documents.
The action taken over the weekend stems from violations of Part 1.2.1.5 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, Nig. CARs, which addresses such fraudulent practices.
Nigerian Pilot reports that the revoked certificates are OBA/AOC/12-15/002 for Omni-Blu Aviation and EAL/AOC/03-24/001 for Eastwind Aviation.
The NCAA’s decision follows an investigation revealing fraudulent activities related to the companies’ applications, licenses, and operational records.
The NCAA said the revocation is part of broader efforts to cleanse Nigeria’s aviation industry, which has been under heightened scrutiny following a recent incident involving a Max Air aircraft.
In a statement on Saturday, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, explained: “The Authority has determined that both Omni-Blu Aviation and Eastwind Aviation are in violation of Part 1.2.1.5 of Nig. CARs on Falsification, Reproduction, or Alteration of Applications, Licences, Certificates, Logbooks, Reports, or Records”.
He further stated: “Part 1.2.1.5(b) of Nig. CARs provide the sanction for such fraud as revocation of the certificate. Consequently, the respective Air Operator Certificates OBA/AOC/12-15/002 and EAL/AOC/03-24/001 are hereby revoked”.
The NCAA further emphasized that these actions reflect its commitment to maintaining high standards, safety, and accountability within Nigeria’s aviation sector that has been troubled by episodes of mishaps in recent times.
