The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to domestic airlines over persistent flight delays and poor passenger care, vowing to impose sanctions on operators that continue to violate consumer protection regulations.
The warning was disclosed on Tuesday by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, in a statement shared on X. It followed an enforcement inspection conducted on Monday at the Abuja operations of three domestic carriers—Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airlines.
According to Achimugu, NCAA officials observed widespread non-compliance with passenger welfare obligations, particularly airlines’ failure to provide timely and transparent information during delays.
He also noted that some operators deliberately avoid offering light refreshments after delays exceed two hours, as required by regulation.
Describing the practice as unacceptable, Achimugu emphasized that airlines must uphold consumer protection standards, especially during the busy December travel season when flight disruptions are more frequent.
“While we recognise the unique operational challenges that often accompany December travel, airlines are still obligated to provide appropriate care to passengers during delays,” he said.
He further clarified that the ultimatum issued by the NCAA applies to all domestic airlines, not just the three inspected.
“We have observed that many airlines fail to provide honest and timely updates to passengers and actively evade the provision of light refreshments two hours into a delay, contrary to Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. This behaviour is unacceptable,” Achimugu stated.
He warned that the authority is closely monitoring airline operations and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where violations persist.
The inspections, Achimugu explained, form part of the NCAA’s ongoing efforts to ensure strict compliance with consumer protection standards, particularly during periods of high passenger traffic.
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