NCAA Suspends Debt Enforcement for Domestic Airlines

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced a temporary suspension of the "no pay, no service" enforcement directive against domestic airlines, aimed at protecting operational stability within the country's aviation industry. This decision, signed by Director General Chris Najomo, follows extensive consultations within the aviation sector to assess the prevailing realities, particularly the rising costs of aviation fuel and the financial strains faced by airlines.

It is important to note that this suspension does not equate to a cancellation or waiver of outstanding statutory remittances owed by the airlines. The NCAA clarified that airlines remain fully responsible for settling their statutory obligations.

This measure is part of a broader effort by the federal government, which includes a previously approved 30 percent discount on outstanding fees for domestic airlines by President Bola Tinubu, to cushion the impact of high jet A1 fuel prices and stabilize the aviation sector. The NCAA emphasized that while the suspension is a relief, it does not absolve airlines of their financial responsibilities.