NCAA Threatens To Sanction Airlines Over ‘Alarming’ Flight Delays

• The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) warns of sanctions for “alarming” flight delays and disruptions, emphasizing enhanced services and compliance
• Increased surveillance aims to identify airlines contributing to poor passenger experiences, and strict measures will be taken to ensure improvement

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is taking a strong stance against airlines, threatening sanctions for what Acting Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo deems “alarming” flight delays and disruptions.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, Najomo emphasized the imperative for airlines to enhance their services. He declared, “Business as usual is no longer acceptable, and errant airlines will face sanctions without bias.”

Najomo highlighted the increased surveillance by the NCAA to ensure strict compliance and identify violators contributing to the reported flight disruptions and poor handling of passengers.

The Director-General underscored that the prevailing records of flight delays, subpar customer experiences, and inadequate passenger handling are unacceptable and must witness improvement.

A statement from the authority quoted Najomo, stating, “Airlines must align their flight schedules with the number of operational aircraft and consider airports with sunset operations. Scheduling flights into these airports early in the day can minimize cancellations due to sunset closures.”

Emphasizing the commitment to passenger welfare, Najomo asserted that the NCAA would ensure airlines fulfill their obligations or face sanctions. He specifically highlighted the proper treatment of persons with reduced mobility, stressing that airlines are mandated to provide necessary facilities and assistance.

The Director of Consumer Protection & Public Affairs, Mr. Michael Achimugu, echoed the significance of the meeting, indicating Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo’s focus on reforming the aviation industry. Achimugu warned that sanctions would be applied for any infractions or poorly managed flight disruptions.

Presenting a paper on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19, Mrs. Ifueko Abdulmalik, AGM Flight Operations & Adjudication, outlined airline obligations in cases of flight delays, cancellations, schedule changes, and baggage delays or loss. She revealed that 53% of total flights operated in Nigeria in 2023 experienced delays, with 1% being canceled.