NCAA flight delay warning: Domestic airlines face sanctions for poor passenger care and failure to provide refreshments during prolonged delays

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has issued a stern warning to domestic airlines over persistent flight delays and inadequate passenger care, stressing that sanctions will follow continued violations.

Also read:

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, made the announcement in a statement posted on X on Tuesday.

The warning follows an enforcement visit by NCAA officials to the Abuja operations of Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airlines on Monday.

During the visit, NCAA officials observed that several airlines were not providing timely or honest information to passengers during delays and were deliberately avoiding the provision of light refreshments after two hours, a requirement under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.

Achimugu described the practice as unacceptable, especially during the peak December travel period, when disruptions are more frequent.

“While we understand the unique challenges of December per flight disruptions, airlines must provide the necessary care for passengers at a time like this,” he said.

The NCAA has issued an ultimatum to all domestic airlines, noting that the warning extends beyond the three carriers inspected. “We have observed that most airlines do not provide timely, honest information, and that they try to evade the provision of light refreshments two hours into a delay. The NCAA finds this unacceptable and action will be taken where necessary,” Achimugu added.