*FAAN Reopens Runway 18L/36R
THE Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has directed the immediate suspension of Dana Airlines operations, pending the outcome of a safety and financial health audit.
Recall that a Dana Air flight skidded off the airport runway at the Domestic Wing, leading to the diversion of other flights to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, both in Lagos State.
A letter signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel C. Meribole, for the minister and addressed to the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Shuaibu Nuhu, noted that recent incidents involving the airline have raised serious concerns regarding both the safety and financial viability of their operations.
The letter read in parts: “In light of these incidents, and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travelers, the minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted.
“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.
“The recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this matter and it is imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved.
“I trust in your expertise and diligence in carrying out this audit thoroughly and expeditiously.
“Please keep me informed of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process.”
Meanwhile, he Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has notified the public and all stakeholders that Runway 18L/36R has been reopened for flight operations from 8.00 p.m.
A statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, on Tuesday, April 23, in Lagos, said the development followed the earlier closure of the runway due to the incident involving a Dana Air aircraft, with registration number 5N-BKI, which overshot the runway during its landing sequence.
She said prompt actions were taken by FAAN’s emergency response team to evacuate and recover the aircraft from the site, while comprehensive clearing operations were conducted to ensure the runway was free of any Foreign Object Debris (FOD) that could impede flight safety.
Orah added that the FAAN Operations Division and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) had jointly conducted a thorough inspection of the runway surface and deemed it safe for the resumption of operations, adding an appropriate Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued in this regard.
“We acknowledge the area affected by the overshoot was significantly muddy.
“A concerted effort was made for the thorough and efficient cleaning of the area to facilitate the swift resumption of operations on Runway 18L/36R.
“FAAN wishes to express its gratitude to the traveling public, our airline partners and all stakeholders for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the temporary closure.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this incident may have caused. Ensuring the safety and security of our passengers, staff and airport operations remains our top priority.
“FAAN is committed to providing a safe, secure and efficient air transport environment for all users of our airports,” the statement said.
