The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has issued a strong warning to domestic airlines over persistent flight delays and poor treatment of passengers, vowing to impose sanctions on defaulting operators.
The warning was contained in a statement posted on X on Tuesday by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu.
According to the statement, the caution followed an enforcement visit by NCAA officials to the Abuja operations of three domestic airlines—Xejet, Rano Air and United Nigeria Airlines—on Monday.
Achimugu said the authority observed widespread violations of consumer protection regulations, particularly airlines’ failure to provide timely and truthful information to passengers during delays. He also accused some operators of deliberately avoiding the provision of light refreshments to passengers after two hours of delay, as required by regulations.
He described the practice as unacceptable, stressing that airlines must fully comply with consumer protection provisions, especially during the peak December travel season when flight disruptions are more frequent.
“While we understand the unique challenges of December-related flight disruptions, airlines must provide the necessary care for passengers at a time like this,” Achimugu said.
He further disclosed that the NCAA has issued an ultimatum to all domestic airlines, warning that the action is not limited to the three carriers visited and that continued violations will attract sanctions.
Achimugu noted that the inspections form part of the authority’s broader efforts to enforce compliance with passenger rights and consumer protection standards, particularly during periods of high passenger traffic.
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