The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken enforcement action against five airlines, including two international carriers, Ethiopian Airlines and Royal Maroc Airways and three domestic operators, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, and Air Peace.
The airlines are facing sanctions for various violations of Part 19 of the NCAA regulations, encompassing issues such as:
Delayed and Cancelled Flights: Including instances beyond force majeure (such as poor visibility during harmattan).
Refund Delays: Failure to process refunds within the stipulated 14-day timeframe for online tickets and immediate cash refunds for cash purchases.
Baggage Issues: Missing, mishandled, and short-landed luggage.
Non-compliance with NCAA directives.
NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, confirmed the enforcement action today.
He emphasized that while airlines are not always responsible for flight disruptions, they are obligated to adhere to specific regulations during such events, adding that, failure to comply will result in sanctions.
Mr. Achimugu further stated that the recent surge in passenger complaints regarding flight delays and cancellations during the Yuletide season has prompted the Authority to take decisive action.
He acknowledged that some cancellations are unavoidable due to force majeure events like poor visibility, but stressed that the current enforcement actions target instances where airlines are deemed at fault.
Achimugu stated that, the NCAA will be summoning the CEOs of all airlines this week for a meeting to address flight disruptions and regulatory breaches.
