NCAA Grants Air Operator Certificate To Pyatic Airline

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Pyatic Airline, paving the way for the carrier to commence non-scheduled commercial flight operations in Nigeria.

Speaking during the certificate presentation ceremony in Abuja, Director-General of NCAA, Captain Chris Ona Najomo, described the issuance of the AOC as a significant milestone but stated that maintaining the certificate through strict adherence to safety regulations was even more important.

Najomo noted that the authority had taken deliberate steps to simplify certification procedures without compromising safety standards.

“Our mantra is ease of doing business. In the past, obtaining an AOC could take two or even three years. We reviewed the challenges and introduced measures to reduce delays while maintaining safety standards,” he said.

The NCAA boss stated that the authority would intensify oversight of airline operations, licensing and training requirements, especially in the wake of recent safety concerns within the aviation industry.

“What is important now is not just obtaining the AOC but maintaining it. Safety remains non-negotiable. If there are issues with aircraft or operations, report them immediately. We are not here to over-regulate operators but to ensure safe operations,” he stated.

Najomo also urged the airline’s management to embrace proper planning, maintenance scheduling and transparent engagement with regulators, assuring them of the authority’s open-door policy.

Responding, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pyatic Flying and Associates Limited, Captain Aliyu Ahmad Yakubu, expressed gratitude to the NCAA for finding the company worthy of certification.

He described the approval as the realisation of a dream that began in 2011.