The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken disciplinary action against five airlines—two international and three domestic operators—for breaching provisions of Part 19 of its regulations.
The infractions include delayed refunds, non-compliance with NCAA directives, issues with missing and mishandled baggage, short-landed luggage, and frequent delays and cancellations of flights.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s spokesperson, revealed this on Tuesday during a press briefing at the Authority’s headquarters in Abuja. He stated that while airlines may not always be at fault for flight disruptions, they are required by NCAA regulations to take specific steps when such incidents occur. Non-compliance attracts penalties.
“Although airlines are not liable for all disruptions, NCAA regulations mandate prompt actions during such occurrences. Sanctions apply when there’s a failure to comply,” Achimugu explained.
Recently, the NCAA warned that airlines must process refunds within 14 days for online ticket purchases and provide immediate refunds for cash transactions. This follows rising passenger complaints about flight delays and cancellations during the festive season.
Achimugu acknowledged that weather conditions, particularly poor visibility caused by the harmattan, have contributed to some disruptions. “Cancellations due to harmattan are force majeure, and airlines are not obligated to compensate passengers in such cases. However, today’s enforcement targets instances where the airlines are at fault. More actions will follow,” he added.
The NCAA also plans to summon airline executives this week to discuss compliance with regulatory standards and address flight disruptions.
While Achimugu did not disclose the specific airlines sanctioned, sources within the Authority identified them as Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace.
