Yemisi Izuora
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has advised operators of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) to ensure they obtain Aviation Height Clearance (AHC), Permits and Licenses before construction of high-rise structures.
The agency also issued similar advice landing facilities owners, stakeholders and the general public, pointing that such permits like the Aviation Height Clearance and Licences should be obtained before the construction of the following of Tower, Telecommunication Masts, High Rise Buildings/Structures and Landing facilities.
These landing facilities include construction of Helipad/Helideck for civil use and Heliports, NCAA added.
This action it stressed is in line with the Civil Aviation Act. 2006 Part IX (30) (L) which empowers the Authority to prohibit, regulate and remove any structure which, therefore by virtue of its height or position, is considered to endanger the safety of aircraft operations.
In addition, the Civil Aviation Act. 2006 Part IX (30) (K) stipulates that the Authority will grant and certify licences for the construction of Helipads, Helidecks, and Heliport, therefore, “It is an exercise in illegality to operate into a heliport (surface level, elevated or helideck) without the approval of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
On the other hand, for those who want to renew their heliport certificate, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 12.10.6 highlights that Heliports operators are required to commence the process of renewal of Heliport Certificate not less than 90 days to the date of expiration of the certificate” the agency warned.
The NCAA noted that it was compelled to issue the warning as part of its oversight responsibilities which is principally safety and security of flight operations in and out of Nigerian airspace and said it will therefore view very seriously and run the rule over any violation of these safety measures.