FG Probes British Airways Over Delayed Departure

• The NCAA investigates British Airways for persistent flight delays affecting passengers, with inspections planned under the Foreign Aircraft Safety Assessment Programme
• Passengers stranded by Qatar Airways after a punctured tire incident raise concerns, while NCAA promises to protect passenger rights

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) investigates British Airways for persistent departure delays over three days. The investigation will also include inspections of all aircraft on the Nigerian route to ensure regulatory compliance under the Foreign Aircraft Safety Assessment Programme (FASAP).

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection at the NCAA, confirmed that the UK airline has delayed departures since August 27, causing significant inconvenience to travellers.

Achimugu stated, “The NCAA has contacted British Airways and initiated an investigation into these frequent delays to establish their root cause and take appropriate action to protect passenger rights and prevent recurrence.” He added that aircraft inspection under the NCAA/ICAO FASAP program will be intensified to ensure compliance.

In a related incident, Qatar Airways passengers were also stranded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja after their aircraft aborted takeoff due to a punctured tyre. The flight, QR 1432, was scheduled to depart for Doha but picked up a nail on its way to the runway, deflating one of the front tyres.

A airline staff member, Mr Godwin, apologized for the inconvenience and explained that the emergency repair required replacing both front tyres, which would be completed shortly.

One of the stranded passengers, Mr. Umar, expressed concern over the delay’s potential impact on his connecting flight and business trip. Another passenger, who preferred to remain anonymous, questioned how a tyre could pick up a nail just before takeoff.

When asked about the Qatar Airways incident, the NCAA spokesman said he was unaware of the situation but promised to follow up.

The NCAA reassured the public that it would take all necessary measures to protect passenger rights and eliminate unnecessary flight delays in line with the authority’s mandate.