The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has threatened to impose stiffer penalties on domestic airlines for what it described as “chronic delays” in flights. In a statement released on Thursday, January 8, the Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection at NCAA, Michael Achimugu, said the measure is to curb incessant flight delays and inefficiencies …
NCAA Mulls Stiffer Penalties Against Domestic Airlines over Flight Delays
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has threatened to impose stiffer penalties on domestic airlines for what it described as “chronic delays” in flights.
In a statement released on Thursday, January 8, the Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection at NCAA, Michael Achimugu, said the measure is to curb incessant flight delays and inefficiencies in flight operations.
He said the NCAA has supported and protected domestic airlines over the years because they operate in a challenging environment.
While noting that the majority of flight disruptions are not caused by the airlines, Achimugu, however, pointed out that “recent events justify the need for heavier ramifications where there is recurrent inefficiency.”
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He stated that given the way the government of President Bola Tinubu has continued to support the aviation industry in the country, coupled with the approach of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the DG of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo and the Consumer Protection Department, airline operators are expected to reciprocate by reflecting significant improvements in flight operations and some other aspects of aviation services.
While acknowledging the challenges in the operating environment that airline operators grapple with, Achimugu stressed that the minister continues to roll out policies aimed at improving the industry.
According to him, there are “some lapses that are inexcusable.”
The NCAA spokesperson said he had several times stressed the need for airlines to improve communication during flight delays and cancellations and comply with the regulations in the areas of HOTAC (Hotel and Crew Accommodation) and First Needs Compensation during flight emergencies.
“The failure to manage information properly, as well as poor passenger handling, has been responsible for the majority of passenger violence at our airport terminals,” Achimugu stated.
While recalling a recent incident in which U.S. authorities imposed a fine of two million dollars on Jet Blue airline for “chronic delayed flights,” the first of its kind in the U.S., Achimugu hinted that stiffer regulations will be contemplated over time as challenges arise.
He reaffirmed the NCAA’s commitment to protecting the rights of all stakeholders, adding that the agency would strengthen its Authority to enforce compliance for both passengers and airline operators.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
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