June 7, 2012 — The Flight Safety Foundation stands in support of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority during this time of tragedy. As we mourn the loss of life, it is critical that Nigerian officials do not compound this tragedy by derailing the outstanding efforts that have been led by the courageous efforts of Harold Demuren, Director General of Civil Aviation, and Goodluck Jonathan, the President of Nigeria.
“Since 2006, we have seen the creation of an autonomous civil authority that has been immune from political interference in Nigeria. Aggressive steps have been taken to build a capable and competent civil aviation authority,” stated William R. Voss, President and CEO of the Flight Safety Foundation. “This isn’t just the opinion of leading aviation safety professionals: it is reflected in concrete actions taken at an international level.”
- In 2010, the Federal Aviation Administration restored Nigeria to Category 1 status, reflecting the improved regulatory oversight,
- The International Civil Aviation Authority recently named Harold Demuren as the Chairman of the Regional Aviation Safety Group for Africa.
International Air Transport Association (IATA) statistics show that during 2005-2006, Nigerian airlines had 3 major accidents with 321 fatalities. From 2007 to 2011 Nigerian airlines had only one accident that resulted in the loss of the aircraft or fatalities.
“Since 2006 Nigeria has taken a more proactive approach to aviation safety, this has generated positive results that are evident from the statistics,” stated Tony Tyler, Director General and CEO of IATA. “Safety is a constant challenge everywhere in the world. In Nigeria, as elsewhere, this important work must continue without political interference.”
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Flight Safety Foundation (flightsafetstg.wpenginepowered.com) is an independent, non-profit, international organization engaged in research, education, advocacy and publishing to improve aviation safety. The Foundation’s mission is to be the leading voice of safety for the global aerospace community.
Contact: Emily McGee, Director of Communications, 1-703-739-6700, ext. 126; mcgee@webdeva.flightsafety.org
