ValueJet has issued an official statement addressing the recent incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, which resulted in the suspension of two of its pilots by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
According to preliminary findings by the NCAA, a ValueJet pilot initiated departure procedures from the designated bay without obtaining the required pre-departure clearance. The aviation authority described the act as “reckless”, stating that it endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, in clear violation of both national and international aviation safety protocols.
In response, the NCAA suspended the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect.
In a press statement released on Wednesday, August 6, ValueJet acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and confirmed it is cooperating fully with the NCAA as investigations continue.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of this incident and are fully cooperating with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in their ongoing investigation,” the airline said.
ValueJet also confirmed that both crew members involved were immediately removed from duty pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
“The crew involved were removed immediately from active duty, pending the outcome of a thorough internal review and investigation,” the statement noted.
The airline reiterated that safety remains its highest priority and pledged full compliance with aviation regulations.
“At ValueJet, safety is not negotiable. We operate under strict adherence to regulatory procedures and international safety standards,” the company said.
“We remain committed to accountability and improvement across all levels of our operations.”
The airline also commended the NCAA for its swift action and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regulatory efforts to strengthen the country’s aviation sector.
“We appreciate the NCAA’s swift response and will continue to work closely with the Authority to uphold the integrity of the Nigerian aviation sector,” the statement concluded.
