The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) now enforces a zero-tolerance policy for regulatory infractions. The NCAA targets deceitful departure time scheduling by airlines, warning them to cease or face serious penalties. Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, emphasized this on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking through the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, Capt. Najomo said, “It has come to our notice that some airlines advertise deceitful departure times. The NCAA regulation says no airline shall display deceitful passenger departure times at its counter, in advertisements, or on its website.” This reinforces its zero-tolerance policy for such.
The NCAA has made licensing processes easier, reducing the time to secure an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC). Capt. Najomo highlighted, “When he assumed office, he made ease of business a core action plan. The time to secure an AOC is now shorter and less cumbersome.”
The NCAA expects airlines to reciprocate by providing world-class services to passengers. Capt. Najomo assured, “Our high score on the Presidential Enabling Business Council (PEBEC) ranking shows our commitment. Recently, our sister agency scored 96 percent, but the NCAA scored 98.5 percent, reflecting significant improvement.”
He added, “We will continue to improve the industry’s safety and security for passengers and stakeholders.” Addressing the issue of refunds, he stated, “All refunds must be processed without undue delays and concluded within 14 working days, regardless of ticket purchase mode.”
