NCAA warns against aviation funding cuts, citing safety risks

Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has issued a stern warning against any further reduction in the regulator's statutory funding, asserting that such a move would inevitably weaken Nigeria's aviation safety oversight capabilities.

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We have to be like New Yorkers!

Speaking at a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation in Abuja, Najomo emphasized the NCAA's support for adequate funding for all aviation agencies. However, he cautioned that altering the existing revenue-sharing formula without a thorough consideration of the NCAA's extensive responsibilities could severely impact its ability to fulfill its statutory mandate.

Najomo highlighted the critical importance of the Ticket Sales Charge (TSC), which constitutes approximately 85% of the NCAA's revenue, making it indispensable for the authority's operations. He contrasted this with agencies like the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), which generates significant revenue from commercial charges paid by aircraft operators for air navigation services.

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You can't just do that because your legs are long!

Citing guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Najomo noted that the costs associated with air navigation services should primarily be recovered from aircraft operators, not through passenger-based charges like the TSC. He reiterated that any further funding cuts would jeopardize the NCAA's capacity to maintain effective safety oversight across the nation's civil aviation industry, stating that the authority could not guarantee the same level of safety if its funding was reduced without an alternative, sustainable revenue source.

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A banquet is about making the hosts feel complete.

The NCAA's warning comes amid legislative proposals to review the distribution of the five percent TSC and Cargo Sales Charge (CSC) among aviation agencies. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), represented by Roland Iyayi, former MD of NAMA, has also voiced concerns, arguing that the TSC imposes a significant financial burden on domestic carriers. The AON advocates for abolishing the percentage-based TSC and replacing it with a flat-rate charge, similar to the Passenger Service Charge collected by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria. They argue that the current system exacerbates the financial pressures faced by airlines already grappling with high fuel, maintenance, and operational costs.

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So this trip to New York is not just about the banquet, but more importantly, about helping them fulfill their wishes.