From Tony John, Port Harcourt
To ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers during the yuletide season, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the approval of 10 new aircraft to bolster local airlines’ capacity.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, emphasised the agency’s commitment to protecting passenger rights. He urged travelers to familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities, and to report any violations or disruptions to the NCAA.
“We are now in the high travel season in the aviation sector, and as you know, there have been a lot of flight disruptions over the year,” Achimugu said. “Our duty at the NCAA is to sensitize our passengers, because most of the times, when complaints come about these disruptions, it comes from a place of poor knowledge about their rights and responsibilities as air passengers.”
Achimugu outlined the rights of air passengers, including the right to timely information, refreshments in case of delays, and accommodation for significant flight cancellations. He also clarified that airlines are accountable for complying with regulations and providing adequate compensation for disruptions.
“The airlines owe a responsibility to the passengers to, after 30 minutes, provide information, after two hours, provide refreshment. Where the passenger’s flight has been canceled beyond the hours of 10 pm and 4 am, they are entitled to accommodation,” he explained.
With the addition of 10 new aircraft to the Nigerian fleet, the NCAA is optimistic about reducing flight disruptions and improving overall passenger experience. The agency is actively working to resolve passenger complaints and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.
“There will not be disruptions this festive season, because of the Hon. Minister’s signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction and my DDCA, Capt. Idera, more aircraft are coming into the country,” Achimugu stated. “Recently, there are 10 new aircraft in Nigeria, spread across airlines, Ibom Air, Air Peace, United Nigeria. These have ramped up the fleets in Nigeria, because we have always had capacity problems. But now, we have more planes. The disruptions are going to reduce.”
The NCAA’s proactive measures and commitment to passenger welfare signal a positive outlook for air travel in Nigeria. As the aviation sector continues to grow, the agency is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring a safe, efficient, and passenger-friendly experience.