NCAA PROHIBITS PILOTS FROM FLYING FOR MULTIPLE AIRLINES 12-11-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cracked down on pilots working for multiple airlines, a practice known as “pilot sharing.”
In a directive addressed to aircraft operators and signed by the Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, the regulatory body has prohibited licensed flight crew members from conducting cross-crew operations for different airlines.
The directive, effective from November 11, 2024, stems from concerns about potential safety risks arising from differing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training requirements across various airlines.
According to the NCAA, its recent surveillance revealed pilots operating flights for multiple airlines without proper authorization.
While pilot sharing relies on simulator proficiency checks and endorsements, the NCAA contends that this practice compromises operational safety standards and violates Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.
The regulator emphasizes that each airline’s Flight Simulator Training Devices (FSTDs) are tailored to their specific SOPs and operational guidelines.
It states that, when pilots work for multiple airlines, they bypass these tailored protocols, potentially undermining safety standards.
Captain Najomo has vowed to enforce strict measures against any airline or licensed pilot violating the directive.
While sanctions under Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations will be applied, including restrictions on simulator renewals, which will be limited to each pilot’s designated operator.