The Nigerian government on Friday took decisive action in response to the persistent issue of flight delays and cancellations that have plagued the country's aviation sector, particularly during the festive season.
The Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najomo, has summoned the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of various airlines for a crucial meeting to address these disruptions. This move shows the government's commitment to ensuring that air travelers' rights are protected and that airlines adhere to regulatory standards.
The announcement was made by Michael Achimugu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA. He revealed that Najomo had to cut short an important assignment to prioritize this meeting, which is scheduled to take place on Friday. This urgency highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate intervention.
Achimugu shared a personal experience that further illustrates the frustration faced by passengers. While attempting to catch a flight, he encountered a scene of agitated passengers who were on the verge of becoming violent due to the delays.
In an effort to calm the situation, Achimugu engaged with the passengers for about 20 minutes, explaining that he would verify the weather conditions with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) to determine if the airline's claims of adverse weather were valid. He emphasized that airlines are not liable for delays caused by force majeure, such as extreme weather conditions.
Despite the challenges, Achimugu took proactive measures to address the passengers' concerns. He insisted that the airline provide transportation back to the central area for all affected passengers. Additionally, he personally paid for accommodation at Peace Media Hotel for elderly passengers who appeared too weak after the prolonged wait.
The airline also agreed to offer 50 percent compensation to the passengers and refund those who requested it. Achimugu informed the passengers that they could choose to receive the compensation in cash rather than as a rebate.
To facilitate the resolution of complaints, Achimugu encouraged passengers to scan the NCAA QR code for passenger complaints using their phones. He assured them that he would follow up with the airline to ensure that their grievances were addressed by the following morning.
This meeting comes in the wake of the NCAA's recent announcement of enforcement actions against five airlines, marking the first time in over a decade that the Consumer Protection Department of the NCAA has taken such steps. This initiative reflects the authority's determination to hold airlines accountable and improve the overall passenger experience.
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