FG Bans Flight Crew From Working With Multiple Airlines, Cites Safety Concerns

[Enioluwa Adeniyi]

The Federal Government has issued a directive restricting licensed flight crew members, including pilots, from working with multiple airlines.​

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced the restriction following findings that some flight crew members have been providing services across different airlines, a practice now deemed illegal.

In a circular (NCAA/DGCA/AOL) dated November 6, 2024, and signed by the Acting Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, the NCAA emphasized that allowing flight crew to operate across airlines poses a risk to safety.

The circular further clarified that the licenses issued to pilots and other crew members are operator-specific and are based on the airline’s approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

According to the NCAA, allowing crew members to operate across airlines disrupts the continuity and adherence to specific SOPs, which could compromise flight safety.

The circular issued to Accountable Managers/Director of Flight Operations and Chief Pilots titled, “PROHIBITION OF AD-HOC FLIGHT OPERATIONS FOR MULTIPLE AIRLINES” read: “It has come to the notice of the authority through our surveillance reports that licensed flight crew members utilize the privileges simulators and proficiency checks endorsed on their license to operate for multiple airlines.

“The Flight Simulator Training Device/facility approved by the Authority is operator-specific based on the training program and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for such an operator.

“Instances where pilots operate for more than one airline concurrently without safety considerations of such actions poses a safety risk to the industry.”

The CAA stated that with effect from the date of issuance of this Directive, all operators and holders of pilot licenses are informed that this action will be treated as a violation of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.

“The Authority will take appropriate enforcement action on violators of this directive, effective from 11th November, 2024.

“Simulator renewals from henceforth will be tied to the Operator. Please comply accordingly,” the circular added.

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