The acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, has expressed concern over the alarming rise in flight cancellations and delays across the country.
He revealed that between September and October 2024, 190 flights were canceled and over 5,000 delayed, leading to increasing tension among passengers.
Speaking at an engagement session between the NCAA and airline operators on Friday, Najomo disclosed that in September 2024, 5,291 domestic flights were operated, with 2,434 delays and 79 cancellations recorded.
Similarly, in October 2024, 5,513 flights were operated, but 2,791 delays and 111 cancellations were documented.
“Delays and cancellations are sometimes inevitable,” Najomo said, “but poor management of these disruptions is not.
Airlines have a responsibility to handle such situations with professionalism and respect for passengers’ rights, as stipulated in the Nigeria Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection) Regulations, 2023”
Najomo revealed that the wave of unruly passenger behavior at airports, often triggered by flight disruptions, has caught the attention of the presidency and members of the National Assembly.
He described the incidents as a national embarrassment, emphasizing that the NCAA is determined to restore order and preserve the sanctity of Nigerian airports.
“The unruly behavior of some passengers is fast becoming very disturbing,” he said.
“I receive calls from the presidency and the National Assembly about these incidents. While flight disruptions are the main cause, resorting to violence is unacceptable, and we are resolute in addressing this menace.”
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, also expressed concern over the trend of unruly behavior at airports.
She stressed the importance of clear communication between passengers, airlines, and aviation authorities.
“We have advised passengers to provide their email addresses to airlines for timely updates,” Kuku stated.
“However, if anyone behaves in a manner that disrupts the airport’s operations, such individuals will be prosecuted and could even face inclusion on a no-fly list.”
Najomo assured stakeholders that the NCAA is working closely with FAAN and the Airline Operators of Nigeria to address the root causes of flight disruptions.
He hinted at upcoming decisive measures aimed at improving passenger experience and reducing delays and cancellations.
Passengers are encouraged to remain calm and adhere to airport regulations as the aviation industry strives to tackle these challenges.
Airlines have also been urged to comply fully with the Consumer Protection Regulations, ensuring better handling of flight disruptions.
