The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that, beginning January 2026, it will start enforcing sanctions against any airport in Nigeria that fails to renew or obtain valid operating permits. This move is part of a broader plan to enhance safety, compliance, and professionalism within the country’s aviation sector.
Why the NCAA Is Taking This Step
The NCAA is responsible for regulating all civil aviation activities in Nigeria. In recent years, concerns have grown about the number of airports and airstrips operating without up-to-date permits. This poses risks not only to air travel safety but also to national security and infrastructure development.
The authority says the deadline gives airport operators more than enough time to comply with the rules.
What an Airport Operating Permit Means
An airport operating permit is a legal approval issued by the NCAA that confirms an airport meets all safety, security, and infrastructure requirements. It ensures the airport can safely handle aircraft, passengers, and cargo. Without this document, an airport is considered non-compliant and potentially unsafe for use.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Starting from January 2026, any airport found operating without a valid permit will face strict sanctions. These may include:
Temporary or permanent closure
Heavy fines
Legal actions against the operators
Denial of airline services to the facility
The NCAA has made it clear that there will be no exceptions or last-minute extensions.
Timeframe for Compliance
Airport owners and operators have until December 31, 2025, to ensure they meet all requirements and secure their permits. The NCAA encourages early compliance to avoid last-minute issues or disruptions to airport operations.
Improving Safety and Standards
The NCAA believes this step is crucial for improving aviation safety across Nigeria. Many of the accidents and incidents in the past have been linked to poor infrastructure or management practices at some airports. By tightening regulations, the authority hopes to eliminate avoidable dangers.
Support for Operators
To help with compliance, the NCAA has said it will provide technical guidance, conduct inspections, and organize workshops for airport managers. This is part of its effort to educate and support rather than punish. However, those who continue to ignore the rules will face the consequences.
Impact on Regional and Private Airports
This policy will not only affect major international airports but also smaller domestic and private airstrips. The NCAA emphasized that every facility where aircraft take off or land must be certified. This ensures consistency in safety and regulatory standards across the country.
Public Reactions
Many in the aviation industry have praised the NCAA for taking this bold step. Aviation experts and airline operators see it as a necessary move to bring order and trust to the system. However, some smaller airport operators have expressed concerns about the cost and process of securing the permit. The NCAA’s announcement is a strong reminder that compliance and safety are not optional in the aviation industry. By giving a clear deadline and offering support, the authority aims to build a more reliable and secure air transport network in Nigeria.
Airport operators now have the chance to do the right thing before the enforcement begins in 2026.
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