Dana Air Faces Allegations of Systemic violations As Safety Concerns Mount

Despite Dana Air’s suspension of operations in July 2022, concerns raised by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) remain unaddressed, casting doubt on the airline’s commitment to safety. The regulatory body had indefinitely suspended Dana Air’s Air Transport Licence and Air Operator Certificate following a comprehensive financial and economic health assessment, citing the airline’s failure to meet financial obligations and ensure safe operations. However, upon reinstatement, several key issues highlighted by the NCAA were left unresolved, raising serious questions about the airline’s adherence to safety protocols.

One of the most recent incidents that has brought Dana Air under scrutiny occurred last week, when one of its aircraft encountered a runway incursion while landing at the domestic terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This incident prompted another suspension by the federal government, further exacerbating concerns surrounding the airline’s safety practices. The specific details of the incident revealed alarming lapses in protocol, including the operation of flights with unlicensed captains and disregard for crew rest regulations, painting a concerning picture of Dana Air’s operational standards.

Lack of Compliance and Safety Oversight

The revelations regarding Dana Air’s operational practices are deeply troubling, with reports indicating a pattern of non-compliance and disregard for safety regulations. Instances where senior personnel operated flights without proper authorization, including expired licenses and age restrictions, raise serious questions about the airline’s commitment to upholding safety standards. Furthermore, the involvement of key post holders in deliberate violations of safety protocols suggests a systemic issue within the organization, pointing to a toxic corporate safety culture that puts the safety and security of passengers at risk.

Moreover, the suspension of licenses and validations for maintenance personnel due to maintenance violations underscores the broader safety concerns plaguing Dana Air. The regulatory authorities’ assertion that the airline and its personnel deliberately violate safety provisions further emphasizes the gravity of the situation, highlighting a fundamental breakdown in safety oversight and enforcement. With the cumulative evidence pointing to significant safety deficiencies within Dana Air, it is evident that urgent action is needed to address these systemic issues and restore confidence in the airline’s ability to conduct safe operations.

Expired Authorizations and Disregard for Regulation by Dana Air

Dana Air, a prominent Nigerian airline, finds itself embroiled in a controversy as revelations surface regarding systemic safety violations within the company. According to recent reports, the Director of Flight Operations at Dana Air conducted aircraft checks despite his authorization expiring in September 2020, and being over the age of 65. Similarly, a senior captain, aged over 65, operated multiple flights from the jump seat, even after his Check Airman authorization lapsed in August 2021. Shockingly, the Chief Pilot, lacking an NCAA Check Airman Authorization, also conducted checks, raising serious questions about the airline’s adherence to safety protocols.

Furthermore, flight deck crews allegedly flouted flight duty times and crew rest regulations, compromising passenger safety. The utilization of the Zapways rostering system, though touted as efficient, is reportedly susceptible to manipulation by scheduling staff, further exacerbating concerns about regulatory compliance within Dana Air.

Suspension of Licenses and Safety Implications

In a damning development, Dana Air’s Quality Inspector had their AME License suspended for 60 days, while an expatriate Maintenance Engineer faced a similar suspension for maintenance violations. These suspensions underscore the gravity of the safety lapses within the airline’s maintenance operations. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed deep-seated concerns, suggesting that Dana Air and its personnel knowingly flout safety regulations, jeopardizing the integrity of their flight operations.

The accumulation of these violations has led the authority to question the airline’s commitment to safety, asserting that Dana Air is no longer capable of conducting safe operations. This indictment extends beyond mere procedural breaches, highlighting a toxic corporate safety culture within the organization. Coupled with a recent Financial and Economic Health Audit, which hinted at broader operational deficiencies, the report paints a grim picture of Dana Air’s ability to ensure the safety and security of its flights.

Urgent Call for Action and Accountability

As safety concerns mount, stakeholders, including passengers, regulatory bodies, and industry experts, are calling for swift and decisive action to address the systemic failures at Dana Air. The revelations of widespread violations demand a comprehensive investigation into the airline’s practices and procedures to restore public confidence in its operations. Moreover, there is an urgent need for accountability measures to be implemented, holding responsible individuals and the company accountable for their actions.

In response to these allegations, Dana Air must prioritize a thorough review of its safety protocols and personnel training programs to mitigate future risks. The airline’s reputation hangs in the balance, and proactive steps are essential to regain trust and ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members. As the aviation industry grapples with evolving challenges, maintaining unwavering commitment to safety standards remains paramount, and Dana Air must heed this imperative to salvage its credibility and integrity.