The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has ordered airlines across the country not to take off with disruptive passengers on board, warning that flights must remain grounded until such individuals are removed or the matter is fully resolved.
The directive was issued by NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, on behalf of the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, during a crucial meeting with domestic airline operators.
“Pilots are not to depart until disruptive passengers are removed from the aircraft or the matter is settled amicably,” Achimugu declared, stressing that the new rule is designed to protect cabin crew and ensure safer flight operations. He emphasized that no passenger has the right to assault airline staff and warned that many incidents spiral out of control because pilots fail to exercise authority at the right time.
At the same time, NCAA urged cabin crew to remain professional in carrying out their duties. “Crew members must avoid being rude, but firmness should never be mistaken for discourtesy,” Achimugu noted.
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The regulator also raised concerns about airlines neglecting their responsibilities during delays and cancellations. Mrs. Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Assistant to the Director-General and Deputy General Manager (Flight Operation and Adjudication), cautioned operators that penalties await airlines that fail to provide proper care or adequate information to stranded passengers.
Other issues tabled at the meeting included pending compensation and refund claims, enforcement of phone-use restrictions on flights, and stronger measures to safeguard crew members from harassment or assault.
Airlines represented at the meeting included Air Peace, Arik Air, Ibom Air, Aero Contractors, United Nigeria Airlines, Max Air, Rano Air, Green Africa Airways, ValueJet, and Overland Airways.
