The NCAA had initially revoked the AOCs of both companies, citing the falsification, reproduction, or alteration of applications, licenses, certificates, logbooks, reports, or records. However, in a statement issued on Monday, Omni-Blu Aviation announced that its appeal had been upheld, leading to the lifting of the suspension on its operations.
The airline’s CEO, Akin Olateru, referenced an NCAA letter dated February 28, 2025 (Ref: NCAA/DGCA//DLS/CS/2025/013), which stated that Omni-Blu Aviation had provided additional evidence proving that the falsified avionics readout report for a Sikorsky S76C helicopter (MSN 760486, Reg. Mark 5N-BQG) was facilitated by the aircraft’s owner, Eastwind Aviation Limited. The NCAA concluded that Omni-Blu Aviation had no active involvement in the events leading to the falsification of the report.
Further findings revealed that Omni-Blu Aviation had no intention to falsify documents or knowledge of the falsification. Based on these conclusions, the NCAA decided to reinstate the airline’s AOC.
In his statement, Olateru expressed gratitude to the NCAA and its appeal review panel for their thorough and impartial review process. He also thanked clients, customers, stakeholders, and well-wishers for their support during the challenging period.
“We wish to thank the NCAA appeal review panel and the DG NCAA for painstakingly and dispassionately undertaking this administrative review and reaching a most equitable decision,” Olateru said. “We also wish to thank our clients, customers, stakeholders, industry friends, and well-wishers who, through calls, text messages, and visits, showed solidarity and believed in us and our avowed integrity through this most difficult experience.”
He added, “It is worthy of note that 2025 will mark the tenth year since Omni-Blu Aviation obtained its AOC and began commercial flight operations. Never has the airline been implicated in any sharp practice or cutting of corners to obtain certifications or approvals from the NCAA.”
Confirming the development, NCAA publicist Michael Achimugu stated in a telephone conversation that a letter of reinstatement had been sent to Omni-Blu Aviation. However, he clarified that the airline cannot resume operations until all pending fines are paid.
“I can confirm to you that a letter of reinstatement was sent to them last week, but they can’t operate until all pending fines are paid,” Achimugu said.
The reinstatement marks a significant milestone for Omni-Blu Aviation as it prepares to resume operations, pending the settlement of outstanding penalties. The airline’s commitment to integrity and compliance with regulatory standards remains a cornerstone of its operations as it celebrates a decade of service in 2025.