AON Bans Ibom Air Passenger for Life

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BY ANTHONY OMOH

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed a Nigerian passenger, Comfort Emmanson, on its “No Fly” list indefinitely. She is banned for life from flying with any AON member airline. This ban follows a violent incident on an Ibom Air flight. More on Comfort Emmanson

 Spokesperson for the AON, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, signed a statement condemning the passenger’s actions.

The association stands united with Ibom Air in its zero-tolerance policy against unruly passengers. Anyone exhibiting similar behavior will suffer the same consequences.  Regulations on Unruly Passengers.

 The statement detailed the incident on Ibom Air flight Q9 303. Ms. Emmanson, traveling from Uyo to Lagos, refused to follow safety instructions regarding mobile phone use.

This refusal escalated into a brutal physical assault on the crew. She even attempted to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon.

The statement read, “This was not just disruptive; it was a sustained, violent attack that placed the lives of crew, passengers, and the integrity of the aircraft itself at risk. This behaviour is unacceptable. Therefore, effective immediately, the AON has placed Ms. Emmanson on its ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely.”

“She is hereby banned from flying with any AON member either domestically or internationally for life.”

The body described incidents of unruly behavior as becoming one too many. It laid particular emphasis on the most recent being the incident involving Nigerian musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) on ValueJet and the unruly behaviour of Senator Adams Oshiomhole towards the members of staff of Air Peace.

“We condemn the violent incident involving Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on Ibom Air flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025.”

“We reviewed the detailed statement issued by Ibom Air regarding the incident and we commend the airline for its swift and professional handling of this unfortunate event and fully endorse the actions taken.”

This strong stance by the AON comes after other recent events. The body highlighted the incident involving Nigerian musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) on a ValueJet flight. It also noted the behavior of Senator Adams Oshiomhole towards Air Peace staff.

 The association praised Ibom Air for its swift and professional response to the incident. They fully endorse the actions taken by the airline. The AON also calls for a review of security procedures.

 The AON mentioned that the incidents have exposed vulnerabilities in aviation security (AVSEC) responses.

They urge the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to tighten security. A more robust security framework is needed to protect both passengers and staff.

  In conclusion, the AON’s decisive action sends a clear message. Violent and disruptive behavior on flights will not be tolerated. Passengers must follow due process to express grievances.