The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has clarified why the co-pilot of the Air Peace aircraft involved in the July 13 Port Harcourt runway overrun was cleared to continue flying, despite safety concerns raised in the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) report. The incident, which involved a Boeing 737-500 carrying 96 passengers and seven crew members from Lagos, sparked public concern after the NSIB disclosed that both cockpit crew members had tested positive for alcohol.
In a statement, the NCAA explained that its decision to clear the co-pilot was based on a thorough review of medical evaluations and subsequent tests carried out after the incident. According to the regulator, the co-pilot’s test results, though flagged in the NSIB’s preliminary findings, did not meet the threshold for grounding under international aviation standards. The NCAA stressed that the co-pilot underwent additional independent examinations, which showed no impairment at the time of duty.
The NCAA further noted that it operates under the framework of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which sets out strict but clear guidelines for crew fitness and alcohol limits. It emphasised that while the NSIB has a mandate to investigate air safety occurrences, its role does not extend to licensing or medical certification, which remain the sole responsibility of the NCAA.
The regulator also highlighted the difference between investigative findings and regulatory action, stating that while NSIB’s reports are vital for improving aviation safety, they are not legally binding when it comes to pilot certification. Instead, the NCAA said it evaluates such reports alongside its own evidence and expert assessments before making final decisions.
The clarification comes amid growing public scrutiny of Nigeria’s aviation industry, where safety concerns have heightened following several near-miss incidents in recent years. Critics had accused the NCAA of compromising safety by allowing the co-pilot to resume duties, but the regulator insisted that its actions were guided by due process and scientific evidence rather than public pressure.
Aviation stakeholders have urged greater collaboration between the NSIB and NCAA to avoid public confusion in cases where investigative reports and regulatory decisions appear to conflict. They argue that while transparency is essential, harmonising communication will help maintain public confidence in air travel safety.
The NCAA reiterated its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety in Nigeria. It assured passengers that every licensed pilot flying in the country undergoes continuous medical checks, monitoring, and training in line with international best practices.
