The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) convened an urgent gathering with 13 domestic airline operators in Abuja today to address an escalating wave of passenger grievances. The discussions centered on regulatory enforcement, airline responsibilities, and emerging safety protocols.
Key issues addressed included:
Frequent flight delays and cancellations
Delays in refunds and compensation
Passenger handling procedures
Enforcement of the new in-flight phone shutdown rule
Protection for cabin crew and NCAA personnel
Introduction of technologies such as RFID baggage tagging and real-time flight monitoring
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, reaffirmed the authority’s position, citing its regulatory obligations under Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations. He stressed airlines must provide hotel accommodation to passengers stranded between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. following cancellations, a requirement often neglected.
He noted, “Too many carriers have cancelled flights late at night without making any arrangements for passengers, leaving NCAA consumer protection officers to manage angry crowds.” Acknowledging operational challenges, he added, “This practice not only breaches aviation regulations but also puts officials at risk.”
In a firmer tone, Achimugu stated, “For infractions that are sanctionable, the Authority will apply the fullest measures possible. We will not abandon the letters of our regulations.” A directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, further mandates airlines that violate regulations—particularly through delays and cancellations—to be publicly named and shamed.
The meeting follows heightened scrutiny of airline operations amid rising reports of unruly passenger behavior, some of which the NCAA attributes to airline negligence and poor regulatory compliance—resulting in frustration, confrontations, and safety concerns for aviation personnel.
