The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a warning to airline operators regarding unnecessary flight delays and cancellations, as well as the practice of abandoning passengers. According to NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu, such actions “will no longer be tolerated” and the authority will begin naming and shaming defaulting airlines.
The NCAA will enforce strict compliance with aviation regulations, which include providing hotel accommodation to passengers stranded between 10:00 pm and 4:00 am due to cancellations or delays. This decision is backed by directives from the Federal Government and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. The move aims to boost accountability and protect passenger welfare in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The warning comes amid rising incidents of airport violence linked to flight disruptions. While some incidents were caused by passengers’ ignorance of aviation rules, others stemmed from airlines’ deliberate attempts to circumvent regulations and deny passengers their rights. The NCAA has condemned the growing trend of airline staff disappearing from terminals during disruptions, leaving passengers alone and frustrating NCAA Consumer Protection Officers.
Achimugu acknowledged the operational difficulties facing airlines in Nigeria but emphasized that such challenges do not excuse non-compliance with established rules. The NCAA also criticized the exposure of its staff to potentially dangerous situations, stressing that officials are only present to support both passengers and the airline industry.
According to regulations, if an airline keeps passengers at the terminal until midnight before cancelling a flight, they are required to provide hotel accommodation. The rules stipulate that passengers stranded between 10:00 pm and 4:00 am be given accommodation. By enforcing these regulations, the NCAA aims to ensure that airlines prioritize passenger welfare and safety.
The NCAA’s decision to crack down on defaulting airlines is a significant step towards improving the aviation sector in Nigeria. With the authority’s commitment to enforcing strict compliance with regulations, passengers can expect better treatment and protection of their rights. As the NCAA moves forward with its new approach, it will be crucial to monitor the response from airline operators and the impact on passenger experiences.
