NCAA suspends two ValueJet pilots over safety breach

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has grounded two ValueJet pilots over a significant violation of aviation safety regulations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA disclosed that preliminary investigations showed that on Tuesday, the pilot initiated departure procedures from the assigned bay “without obtaining the mandatory pre-departure clearance.”

The NCAA described the situation as a “grave violation” and said it responded promptly by suspending the licences of both Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirms that it has received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by a ValueJet pilot at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (Domestic Terminal) on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” the agency stated. 

According to the NCAA, preliminary information showed that the pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay “without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols”.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness. Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect,” it announced.

It further stated that the suspension would remain in effect pending the outcome of a full investigation into the incident.