The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a warning to domestic airlines regarding the delay of passengers’ ticket refunds. According to the regulatory body, refunds should be processed within the officially stipulated 14-day timeframe. This directive was announced by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, via his official social media account.

The warning comes in response to reports that some airlines have been informing passengers that refunds could take up to four weeks, which violates Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. The NCAA regulations clearly state that refunds must be completed within 14 days, and airlines cannot create their own rules in this regard.

The NCAA emphasized that misleading passengers with longer refund timelines undermines the regulatory authority and is unfair to consumers. To address this issue, the agency advised passengers who experience delays in refunds to forward communications from airlines to the designated email addresses. This measure aims to ensure that airlines comply with the regulations and process refunds within the stipulated timeframe.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s directive is significant, as it seeks to protect consumers’ rights and promote transparency in the aviation industry. The 14-day refund timeframe is a standard practice in the industry, and airlines are expected to adhere to it. By enforcing this regulation, the NCAA aims to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that passengers receive their refunds in a timely manner.

The aviation industry in Nigeria has experienced significant growth in recent years, with an increasing number of domestic airlines operating in the country. As the industry continues to expand, the NCAA’s role in regulating and overseeing the sector becomes increasingly important. The agency’s efforts to protect consumers’ rights and promote fair practices are crucial in maintaining public trust and confidence in the industry.

In light of this development, passengers who have experienced delays in refunds or have concerns about airlines’ refund policies can reach out to the NCAA for assistance. The agency’s commitment to enforcing the regulations and protecting consumers’ rights is a positive step towards promoting a fair and transparent aviation industry in Nigeria.