…Says no record of tampering
By Chinelo Obogo
Quits Aviation has stated that the aircraft carrying the Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, was under 24-hour security surveillance and there was no record of observed tampering or security infringements before the flight was aborted
It however said the company noticed that the aircraft was parked by the owner without engine cover protection.
In a statement, the management of Quits Aviation said that it is only responsible for the parking of the aircraft whilst the operator is responsible for the technical parking procedures in accordance with the respective aircraft maintenance manuals.
It pledged cooperation with agencies investigating the incident.
“Quits Aviation is a reputable Aviation entity boasting 12 years experience with Aircraft Management, Aircraft Maintenance, Operations and Handling services. Under an Aircraft Parking agreement with the owner/operator of aircraft (Bombardier Challenger 605, registration marks 5N-ATA), Quits Aviation is responsible to provide suitable and secured parking space at its premises, whilst the Owner/Operator is responsible for the technical Parking Procedures in accordance with the respective Aircraft Maintenance Manuals.
“The aircraft was parked at Quits Aviation premises prior to the date of the incident on 04.09.2023. During parking, the aircraft was under 24-hour security surveillance and there is no record of observed tampering, or security infringements.
“According to CCTV footage observed, the following can be confirmed: (1) On the day of the flight (04.09.2023) at approximately 08:45, the aircraft was towed from its parked position and repositioned close to the Legend Business Hangar to begin with flight preparation procedures. It is confirmed that the aircraft had been parked with no engine cover protection. Except for the towing movement, there was no other interference to its airframe or engines.
“At approximately 13:18 of the same day, the aircraft doors were opened for flight preparation activities until the aircraft departed for its intended flight at approximately 15:20. The aircraft later returned to the ramp, eventually to then leave the Quits Aviation premises at approximately 17:12.
“Quits Aviation regrets the incident and confirms its full cooperation with relevant stakeholders and authorities performing investigating the incident.
“In promotion of safety, Quits Aviation recommends to its tenants to park aircraft in strict compliance with the Aircraft Maintenance Manual Procedures, requiring that open orifices and engines are always covered to prevent Foreign Object Damage or infestation,” the airline said.
