First Nation Airlines, a domestic career reportedly owned by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has suspended its operations, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has said.
This is coming in less than 24 hours after Aero Contractors Airlines, Nigeria’s second largest commercial carrier, announced an indefinite suspension of its scheduled flight services and its staff with effect from Thursday, September 1, 2016.
Management of the airline however said it will resume operations in two weeks.
Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Muhtar Usman, in a statement said the decision was taken in order to ensure that the airline carried out the required maintenance of its aircraft.
“The First Nation Airlines on its part is in the middle of an Engine Replacement Programme for one of its aircraft.
“Another aircraft is due for mandatory maintenance as its allowable by the Regulatory Authority.
“In these circumstances, these airlines clearly cannot continue to undertake schedule operations, hence the inevitable recourse to self-regulatory suspension.
“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) wishes to reiterate that on no account will it compromise safety and security of airline operations in the airspace.
“Every facet of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARS) and Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) must be adhered to with due diligence.
“In addition, everything has been put in place to continue to ensure compliance,” the statement added.