The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has imposed an applicable sanction on Aero Contractors Airlines in line with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs).
According to the NCAA, although the incident did not result in any mishap, the aircraft is airworthy and the crew well qualified to operate the flight.
However, it is viewed as a breach and conequently a fine running into millions of naira was imposed on the airline to serve as deterrent to other airline operators.
In a letter conveying the sanction, its Director-General, Capt. Muhtar Usman, said the action of Aero Contractors Airline in allowing the use of a ladder to disembark passengers from a Boeing 737 – 500 aircraft in a non-emergency situation, is contrary to its approved aircraft handling manual.
Therefore this is a violation of Part 9.2.4.2(b) of Nig.CARs which part attracts a civil penalty, he said, adding that all the relevant agencies made useful submissions during the course of the investigation.
“In view of the safety implications of your action, you are hereby sanctioned in accordance with the provisions of Part 20.2.3(15) of the Nig.CARs,” the letter added.
Although the incident did not result in any mishap, the aircraft is airworthy and the crew well qualified to operate the flight.
In addition, the captain of the flight was similarly fined for failing to comply with the provisions contained in the aircraft manual.
The NCAA therefore wishes to reiterate its earlier warning that all airlines should endeavour to adhere strictly to Civil Aviation Regulations, the regulator said.