NCAA Moves against Illegal Masts on Flight Paths

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is to remove all unauthorized high rise structures erected on flight paths.

These structures are telecommunications masts, towers and high rise buildings built without obtaining aviation height clearance.

NCAA said the action is to ensure the safety of all aircraft on approach to land at our various airports in Nigeria.

A statement by Mr Fan Ndubuoke, general manager, public relations of NCAA, stated that some of these structures have been found to be constituting major obstacles to approach and descent to the airports for our air carriers.

To prevent any untoward consequences, the regulatory authority has appointed Messrs Noon Mast Ventures Nig. Ltd to commence a nationwide identification of such erections and  pull down all such illegal structures within the airport environment and along the flight paths.

According to NCAA’s regulation, those who are compelled by whatever reason to erect a mast or high rise structure within the airport environment and along flight paths are required to contact NCAA to obtain the appropriate Aviation Height Clearance.

Once this request is made the department in charge will proceed for inspection and give approval for an allowable safety height or advised to relocate the structure entirely where applicable.

The firm has therefore been mandated to embark on country wide surveillance, demand for NCAA Certificate of clearance as a condition for verification from owners of existing structures and where this is nonexistent they will be pulled down instantly.

While owners are advise to cooperate with them, it is important to note that all violators will bear the cost of pulling down the structure if the need arises.

This action is to further strengthen our regulatory resolve to ensure safety and security of air transport in Nigeria.

It is pertinent to point out that violations will be viewed seriously by the Authority.