ValueJet has admitted that the serious breach which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, resulted from a lapse by its crew.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) disclosed that on Tuesday, ValueJet pilot initiated departure procedures without mandatory clearance from ground control.

Recognising the gravity of the crew’s action, the airline confirmed that those involved in the serious breach were immediately removed from active duty. An internal review is now underway to determine the root cause and prevent any future recurrence.

In a statement released by ValueJet Management, the airline expressed full cooperation with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in its ongoing investigation.

It reiterated that safety remains non-negotiable and emphasised that its operations are guided by strict regulatory and international safety standards. “We are committed to accountability at all levels,” the airline stated.

ValueJet also appreciated the NCAA’s swift response and pledged to work closely with the Authority to preserve the integrity of the Nigerian aviation sector.

NCAA Suspends Crew Over Serious Breach

The NCAA on Tuesday suspended the licences of both the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Olobaboth, of the affected ValueJet aircraft with immediate effect.

According to the regulator, it received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols involving the ValueJet cockpit crew at the Abuja airport.