The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called all domestic airlines to a meeting in Abuja due to recent flight delays and cancellations.
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Relations and Consumer Protection, shared the announcement on his verified X account. The meeting will take place at the NCAA headquarters.
The meeting, scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, will cover key issues including:
- Managing unruly passengers and following proper handling protocols.
- Resolving refund and compensation problems.
- Introducing RFID bag tags and flight monitoring technology.
- Enforcing phone switch-off rules and protecting cabin crew.
- Improving passengers’ overall travel experience.
For those interested, the meeting will be broadcast live on the NCAA’s social media platforms, including X and Facebook. Follow @NigeriaCAA for updates.
This action comes just a day after Achimugu stated that the NCAA has the federal government’s authority to publicly name airlines that cancel or delay flights without properly attending to stranded passengers, as outlined in Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.
He warned that when airlines cancel flights without caring for passengers’ welfare, it puts NCAA consumer protection officers in difficult situations.
Achimugu emphasized that passengers left at airports late at night deserve hotel accommodation if flights are canceled.
“The regulations say that passengers stranded between 10 PM and 4 AM should receive accommodation. Airlines that leave passengers frustrated while their staff disappear will no longer be tolerated,” he wrote.
He added that while he understands the challenges airlines face in Nigeria, operators who want to succeed must meet high standards.
Airlines should focus on providing safe and comfortable travel for passengers as well as protecting their own reputation.
Achimugu also noted that airlines should avoid putting NCAA officials at unnecessary risk, as these officers are there to support the airline business and protect passenger rights.
“For actions that violate regulations, the NCAA will take full enforcement measures. The federal government has instructed the naming and shaming of airlines. Operators must comply with regulations during flight disruptions,” he concluded.
