The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cautioned domestic airlines over recurring flight delays and poor passenger handling, warning that sanctions will be imposed on operators that continue to flout consumer protection rules.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, disclosed this in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, following an enforcement visit to the Abuja operations of Xejet, Rano Air and United Nigeria Airlines.
According to Achimugu, the inspection revealed that several airlines were failing to give passengers timely and accurate information during delays and were deliberately avoiding the provision of light refreshments after two hours, as required by regulation.
He described the practice as unacceptable, stressing that airlines must comply fully with passenger care obligations, especially during the busy December travel season when delays 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.
Achimugu noted that the warning applies to all domestic airlines, not just those inspected, adding that the NCAA has issued an ultimatum to operators nationwide.
“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, as stipulated by Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.
“The NCAA finds this unacceptable. We are watching closely, and appropriate action will be taken where necessary,” he added.
He explained that the inspections form part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to enforce consumer protection standards and safeguard passengers’ rights during periods of heavy air travel.
