….explains rationale behind sanction decisions
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has responded to recent concerns over sanctions against airlines, emphasizing that its primary goal is to protect both consumers and carriers.
In a recent development, five airlines, including Air Peace, were sanctioned for consumer protection related infractions.
Simultaneously, the Director General, NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, has urged Air Peace to scale down its operations to match its fleet of serviceable aircraft.
The NCAA has clarified as posted on its Facebook page, that these actions are part of its standard protocol aimed at ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Contrary to expectations that an airline would be immediately shut down for infractions, the authority emphasized its duty to safeguard domestic carriers.
This, the NCAA argues, is crucial not only for the airlines’ survival but also for maintaining a functional air transport industry that can continue to expand its capacity and infrastructure.
NCAA acknowledged existing challenges within the industry but expressed optimism about progress made under the current leadership.
As contained in the Facebook page, for the first time in Nigeria’s aviation history, airlines are being held accountable for consumer protection violations and also, the country saw a record number of ticket refunds and compensations last year, according to the NCAA.
It explains, the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Department has been hailed as the most active in Africa, reflecting a renewed commitment to regulatory oversight.
The authority credited the Minister and the DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo, for spearheading reforms that have yielded tangible results.
The NCAA also addressed concerns about the potential impact of grounding a major carrier like Air Peace, citing the ripple effect on travelers.
Drawing a parallel with Innoson Motors, which gained traction and diversified its offerings with local support, the authority encouraged patience and faith in the government’s agenda to support local operators.
The NCAA assured stakeholders that it remains committed to its oversight role and will not hesitate to take action against any airline.
With aviation at the center of Nigeria’s economic plans, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the authority expressed confidence that the industry will continue to evolve and strengthen.
