The Nigerian government, through the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has announced a decisive action on airlines responsible for unnecessary flight delays.
This move comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the efficiency and reliability of air travel within the country, particularly during the high travel season.
The NCAA, which is the statutory body responsible for the safety and economic regulation of the civil aviation industry in Nigeria, has been empowered by the Civil Aviation Act 2022 to enforce stringent measures against non-compliant airlines.
The Act, which repealed the previous Civil Aviation Act of 2006, provides the legal framework for these actions, ensuring that both passengers and airlines are protected under the law.
Michael Achimugu, the Head of Consumer Protection at the NCAA, emphasized the importance of this initiative during a road walk event in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State.
He stated, "We’re now in the high travel season in aviation and as you know there’s been a lot of flight disruptions as well as a lot of complaints. Our duty at NCAA is to sensitize our passengers because most of the time when complaints come about these disruptions, it comes from a place of poor knowledge about their rights and responsibilities as air passengers."
Achimugu further highlighted the dual responsibility of protecting both passengers and airlines, indicating that while passengers need to be informed about their rights, airlines must also adhere to regulations to avoid sanctions. The NCAA's approach aims to balance these interests, ensuring a fair and efficient aviation sector.
The Federal Government's decision to impose sanctions on errant airlines is a response to the growing number of complaints from passengers who have experienced significant inconveniences due to flight delays. These delays not only disrupt travel plans but also have broader economic implications, affecting business operations and personal commitments.
In addition to sanctioning airlines, the NCAA is actively working to educate passengers about their rights and the challenges they may face while traveling. This educational campaign is crucial in empowering passengers to make informed decisions and hold airlines accountable for any service lapses.
As the NCAA continues to implement these measures, it remains committed to collaborating with airlines, passengers, and other stakeholders to create a seamless and efficient travel experience. The agency's efforts are aligned with the government's vision of transforming Nigeria into a hub for aviation excellence in Africa.
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