The Federal Government is considering seizing Dana Air’s assets to refund passengers and travel agents whose funds are trapped following the airline’s suspension.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, stated this during the Ministry’s fourth-quarter stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, emphasizing that safety was prioritized over commercial interests.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will investigate why funds trapped by the airline are yet to be refunded.
Keyamo warned that individuals or entities linked to Dana Air won’t be allowed to return to the aviation sector without clearing outstanding debts. “We should look at their assets. Let them sell their assets. Let’s cannibalize their revenue and pay people,” he said.
Dana Air’s operations were suspended in April 2024 after a runway excursion involving an MD-82 aircraft, prompting a comprehensive safety and economic audit.
The NCAA has received 9,529 refund claims, with 11 enforcement actions and 9 sanctions issued for consumer protection violations.
