The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken enforcement action against five airlines—two international and three domestic operators—for violations of aviation regulations, including delays in refunds, mishandled luggage, and non-compliance with directives.
Mr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, disclosed this during a media briefing at the Authority’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
He explained that while airlines are not always responsible for flight disruptions, NCAA regulations mandate specific actions during such events. Violations attract various levels of sanctions. The NCAA recently warned airlines to adhere to the 14-day timeframe for processing refunds for online ticket purchases and to issue immediate refunds for cash transactions.
The yuletide season has seen a rise in passenger complaints about delayed and canceled flights. Mr. Achimugu attributed most cancellations to poor visibility caused by the harmattan, describing it as a force majeure event that exempts airlines from liability. However, he clarified that the current sanctions target instances where airlines were directly at fault.
“This is harmattan season, and flight cancellations due to poor visibility are beyond the control of airlines. However, the enforcement action today addresses situations where airlines failed to meet their obligations. Additional measures may follow,” Achimugu stated.
The NCAA also plans to convene a meeting with airline CEOs this week to address flight disruptions and other regulatory breaches.
Although Achimugu did not disclose the names of the sanctioned airlines, sources within the Authority revealed they include Ethiopian Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace.
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