JUST IN: Dana Air Disengages Staff Amid Operational Audit

Dana Air, a prominent airline in Nigeria, has taken a significant step amidst an ongoing operational audit by the nation’s regulatory authorities. The airline has announced the temporary disengagement of some staff members as part of its response to the audit process. This decision, according to the airline’s Head of Corporate Communications, Kingsley Ezenwa, aims to ensure efficient resource management and facilitate a comprehensive review of operational procedures.

In a statement issued on Saturday morning, Dana Air expressed gratitude to its staff for their resilience and dedication during this uncertain period. The airline acknowledged the challenges faced by its employees and assured them of efforts to resolve the situation promptly. Dana Air reaffirmed its commitment to cooperate fully with regulatory authorities to expedite the audit process.

Despite these challenges, Dana Air has initiated discussions with lessors and engaged stakeholders to address the situation. The airline urged for calm and understanding from its dedicated staff and stakeholders during this time.

Background: Recent Events Leading to Audit

Last month, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) suspended Dana Air’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) citing “elevated safety concerns” following a runway incursion incident involving one of the airline’s aircraft. This suspension came less than two years after a previous suspension due to safety violations uncovered during a financial and economic health audit.

Despite these setbacks, Dana Air remains committed to addressing concerns and is developing a restart plan to ensure the safe and efficient resumption of operations. The airline expressed confidence that with the support of its staff and stakeholders, it will emerge stronger from these challenges.