The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced issuance of approval in the unmanned aircraft operations category with the first Remotely Piloted Aircraft/Drones RPAS Operators Certificate (ROC) issued to Oando Plc.
Oando Reservoir and Production Services Ltd. received the certificate having satisfied the requirements and found competent to secure the safe operation of the Aircraft type Lockheed Martins SN 248-255.The certificate issued to Oando is meant for flights with the purpose of aerial work specifically Environmental Observation Monitoring and Protection, the NCAA explained. Prior to the commencement of certification of drone operations, the regulatory authority had decried the proliferation of drones in the nation's airspace with the agency moving in to regulate the activities of drone operators.
Director General of NCAA, Capt. Muhtar Usman, who handed the certificate to Oando Plc advised it to ensure strict compliance with all the requirements for the approval. He enjoined the recipient to expect some initial minor challenges which he said "are not entirely unexpected in any new initiative".
"However, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will be very agile in responding to these challenges. Taking cognizance of the rapid pace of technological development, the RPAS regulatory framework is a work in progress and we shall continually engage the industry stakeholders to review the regulations when necessary."
General Manager, Operations, Mr. Anthony Sawyer, described the procedures for the approval were rigorous, adding, "We were convinced the Authority was doing the right thing in line with its oversight responsibilities. "Oando will definitely abide by all the conditions attached to the certificate especially with our pioneer status."
Meanwhile the NCAA has issued guidelines for the issuance of RPA certificate with the applicants expected to undergo five phases including the Pre-Application, Formal Application, Document Evaluation, Demonstration & Inspection and Certification phases. The RPAS Operators Certificate (ROC) shall remain in force till 15th June, 2019 and shall be carried on site during each authorized/approved operations.
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