By John Umeh
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially suspended the operations of Rano Air, one of Nigeria’s emerging domestic airlines, following a disturbing in-flight engine malfunction that occurred during a scheduled passenger flight. The suspension, announced on Monday, comes in the wake of a serious safety breach that raised alarm over the airline’s maintenance procedures and operational standards.
Midair Emergency Sparks Safety Concerns
According to reports, the incident took place during a routine domestic flight when one of Rano Air’s aircraft experienced engine failure midair, prompting the flight crew to initiate emergency protocols. Fortunately, the pilot managed to land the aircraft safely without injuries to passengers or crew members, but the terrifying experience left travelers shaken and triggered an immediate investigation by aviation authorities.
Eyewitness accounts and passenger videos shared online described moments of fear and uncertainty as the aircraft began to lose altitude before stabilizing. The aircraft was later confirmed to have developed a critical engine fault, which could have led to a tragic outcome had it not been for the professionalism of the flight crew.
NCAA Moves Swiftly with Sanctions
In response to the incident, the NCAA said it has grounded Rano Air’s entire fleet indefinitely pending a thorough safety audit and investigation. According to a statement released by the authority, the suspension is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of the flying public and to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“NCAA cannot compromise on safety. Until we are satisfied that Rano Air meets all airworthiness and safety requirements, they will remain grounded,” the agency said. It also revealed that a team of inspectors has been deployed to examine Rano Air’s maintenance records, staff training documentation, and safety compliance history.
Rano Air Reacts
Rano Air, in a brief statement, confirmed the incident and expressed gratitude that all passengers were unharmed. The airline said it is cooperating fully with the NCAA and has launched its internal investigation into the cause of the engine failure.
“We take the safety of our passengers very seriously. While this was an unfortunate occurrence, we are working hand-in-hand with regulatory authorities to understand what went wrong and to ensure such an event never happens again,” the statement read.
The airline, which only recently expanded its route network to several key Nigerian cities, has positioned itself as a rising competitor in the domestic aviation space. However, this setback threatens to derail its growth unless corrective actions are taken swiftly and transparently.
Industry Experts Weigh In
Aviation analysts have applauded the NCAA’s quick response, stating that regulatory enforcement is crucial in preventing future disasters. According to Captain Ibrahim Dogo, a retired pilot and safety consultant, “Engine failure in flight is one of the most serious emergencies in aviation. The NCAA has done the right thing by grounding the airline until it is proven safe.”
Others in the industry, however, have called for broader reforms to ensure that emerging airlines are thoroughly vetted before receiving operating licenses, citing concerns about the quality of aircraft maintenance across several domestic carriers.
Passengers Demand Accountability
Meanwhile, some passengers from the affected flight are calling for compensation and greater accountability. A few have taken to social media to recount the panic that ensued during the flight, demanding assurances that similar lapses will not endanger future travelers.
The incident has once again renewed public focus on aviation safety in Nigeria, prompting calls for routine audits and stronger oversight.
What’s Next?
Until NCAA’s investigation concludes, Rano Air will remain grounded. The findings from this inquiry will determine whether the airline can resume operations or face additional sanctions, including possible fines or revocation of its license.
For now, passenger confidence in the airline remains shaken. The Nigerian public, meanwhile, watches closely as another test unfolds in the country’s struggle to balance aviation growth with the non-negotiable priority of safety.
