The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has instructed pilots not to fly passengers who behave unruly, in a bid to strengthen safety and discipline in the aviation sector.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, announced the directive on Wednesday during a meeting with all domestic airlines in Abuja.
“Pilots must not fly until unruly passengers are removed by security or the issue is resolved amicably,” Achimugu said. “This will protect cabin crew and ensure passengers treat them with courtesy. No passenger has the right to touch cabin crew.”
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He emphasised that some past incidents were exacerbated because pilots failed to take firm control. Achimugu added, “Cabin crew should not be rude, and passengers should not misinterpret firmness as rudeness.”
Mrs Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Assistant to the NCAA Director-General, warned that airlines would face sanctions for failing to notify passengers or provide care during flight delays or cancellations.
The meeting also addressed several issues affecting the industry, including:
- Unruly passenger behavior and handling protocols
- Unresolved refund or compensation issues
- Introduction of RFID bag tags and flight monitoring technology
- Enforcement of phone switch-off instructions and protection of cabin crew
- Improving overall travel experience for passengers
READ ALSO: NCAA Orders Phones Off During Flights
Airlines represented at the meeting included Arik, Ibom, Aero, United Nigeria, Green Africa, Max Air, Rano Air, ValueJet, Air Peace, and Overland.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
