The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has initiated NCAA sanctions against airlines for violating passenger rights and disregarding regulatory directives. These breaches include failing to issue refunds within the stipulated time frame, mishandling luggage, and ignoring NCAA orders. This enforcement underscores the Authority’s commitment to ensuring accountability in the aviation industry, improving service delivery for passengers.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, announced the sanctions on Tuesday. He clarified that while airlines are not always responsible for disruptions, NCAA regulations require specific actions during such events. “When disruptions occur, airlines must comply with prescribed procedures. Non-compliance attracts sanctions based on the gravity of the breach,” Achimugu stated, emphasizing the significance of NCAA sanctions against airlines in upholding consumer protection. READ ALSO: NCAA Bans Cross-Crew Operations, Threatens Sanctions Against Multiple Airline Pilots
The festive season has seen an increase in flight delays and cancellations, leading to passenger dissatisfaction. While poor weather conditions, such as harmattan-induced visibility issues, have justified some cancellations, Achimugu explained that today’s sanctions target cases where airlines are directly at fault. He added that a meeting with airline CEOs will take place this week to address flight disruptions and ensure strict adherence to regulations.
The violations that prompted these sanctions range from failure to process passenger refunds within the stipulated 14-day period to mishandling of luggage, including short-landed and manhandled baggage. Additionally, some airlines have been accused of neglecting NCAA directives on customer service during delays and cancellations. These infractions have heightened frustration among travelers and drawn attention to lapses in operational discipline and accountability across the aviation sector.
Although Achimugu did not name the penalized airlines, insider sources revealed them as Ethiopian Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace. These NCAA sanctions against airlines send a clear message about the Authority’s zero tolerance for service negligence and regulatory breaches, reinforcing its role as a consumer-focused regulator. NCAA Gallery
