The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has unveiled plans to provide comprehensive Loss of Licence Insurance Cover for all Nigerian pilots and aircraft engineers.
The initiative NAAPE disclosed, marked a significant milestone in strengthening the welfare and professional security of aviation personnel across the country.
The scheme, developed in partnership with First Standard Insurance Brokers, was designed to protect pilots and engineers who lose their professional licences due to medical incapacity or other qualifying conditions that render them unable to continue flying or maintaining aircraft.
It said it would also provide financial compensation, based on policy terms, to affected members, helping them manage career interruptions or medical recovery without financial distress.
President of NAAPE, Capt. Bunmi Gindeh, while speaking on the initiative, said the association reached the decision after extensive consultations with stakeholders in the aviation industry.
He explained that the move reflects NAAPE’s commitment to improving members’ welfare and promoting professional stability within the sector.“
Gindeh in a statement issued Monday by the Public Relations Officer of NAAPE, Blessing Ahmadu, hinted that Loss of Licence insurance for aviation professionals has long been a standard benefit in developed aviation markets worldwide.
He said: “Our members face unique occupational risks that can abruptly end their careers. The goal of this initiative is to ensure that no pilot or engineer is left without financial support if they are declared medically unfit to continue their professional duties.
“By introducing this important coverage in Nigeria, we are not only protecting individual professionals and their families but also strengthening the aviation sector by ensuring that our highly trained workforce can focus on maintaining the highest safety standards, knowing their careers are financially protected against unforeseen medical challenges.”
“NAAPE is also working to make the insurance cover affordable and accessible to all members, including those in private and charter operations.”
Similarly, Deputy President, NAAPE, Mudi Muhammad, said they have seen too many of their colleagues face financial hardship after losing their licences due to unexpected medical conditions.
This insurance programme, he said, would ensure that no Nigerian pilot or engineer would face such circumstances alone, saying it provides a safety net that every aviation professional deserves.