Pilots, Engineers Get Safety Net as NAAPE Introduces Loss of Licence Cover in Nigeria
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has announced the introduction of a historic Loss of Licence Insurance scheme designed to provide financial protection for Nigerian pilots and aircraft engineers who become medically unfit to continue working.
Aviation stakeholders have described it as one of the most significant welfare interventions for aviation professionals in the country in recent years.
Unveiled on Monday in Abuja, the scheme was developed in partnership with First Standard Insurance Brokers. According to NAAPE, the insurance cover will ensure that aviation professionals whose careers are abruptly cut short by medical incapacity or other qualifying conditions will receive financial compensation to support their recovery and livelihood.
The initiative, according to NAAPE, is targeted at both pilots and engineers operating within airlines, charter companies, and private aviation outfits across Nigeria.
President of NAAPE, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, said the Association arrived at the decision after extensive consultations with relevant aviation stakeholders.
He explained that the cover mirrors what is obtainable in developed aviation markets where Loss of Licence insurance is a standard component of crew welfare.
“Loss of Licence insurance for aviation professionals has long been a standard benefit in developed aviation markets worldwide. 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,” Gindeh said.
He stressed that introducing such insurance in Nigeria does not only secure individual professionals and their families, but also contributes to strengthening aviation safety culture, as pilots and engineers can carry out their duties with greater peace of mind.
“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,” he added.
He further revealed that the Association will ensure the premiums are affordable and accessible across both public and private aviation sectors, to avoid disparities in welfare packages.
Similarly, NAAPE Deputy President, Engr. Mudi Muhammad, said the Association has witnessed instances where colleagues suffered severe financial setbacks after losing their licences due to medical conditions.
“We have seen too many of our colleagues face financial hardship after losing their licences due to unexpected medical conditions. This insurance programme ensures that no Nigerian pilot or engineer will face such circumstances alone. It provides a safety net that every aviation professional deserves,” Muhammad said.
Aviation observers have continued to applaud NAAPE for the proactive move. They say it is timely and aligns with global best practices, especially in the wake of recent public debates around pilot health standards, medical screening, and regulatory fitness oversight in Nigeria.
NAAPE said details regarding enrolment processes and premium payments will be released soon. The Association also plans to organise nationwide sensitisation and enlightenment sessions to educate members and eligible professionals about the benefits and terms of the insurance cover.
Established to protect the professional and economic welfare of pilots and aeronautical engineers in Nigeria, NAAPE said it will continue taking steps that safeguard the livelihoods of highly skilled aviation personnel while contributing to the safety and growth of the national aviation industry.
