The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a strong new directive aimed at protecting safety, discipline, and orderliness within the aviation industry. Effective immediately, pilots are prohibited from departing with disruptive passengers onboard.
The announcement was made on Wednesday in Abuja by Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, on behalf of the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, during a meeting with domestic airline operators.
Achimugu emphasized that “pilots are not to depart until disruptive passengers are removed from the aircraft or the matter is settled amicably.” He added that the directive would not only protect cabin crew but also encourage passengers to treat them respectfully.
The NCAA stressed that passengers have no right to assault cabin crew, and warned that many confrontations escalate because pilots sometimes fail to exercise their authority. Cabin crew were also reminded to maintain professionalism at all times, with Achimugu noting that firmness should not be mistaken for discourtesy.
Mrs. Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Assistant to the DG and Deputy General Manager (Flight Operation and Adjudication), also warned airlines of penalties for neglecting passenger rights. This includes failing to inform passengers about flight delays and cancellations, or not providing proper care during disruptions.
Other issues discussed at the meeting included pending refund and compensation claims, passenger handling procedures, enforcement of in-flight phone rules, and better protection for cabin crew members.
Airlines represented at the meeting included Arik Air, Air Peace, Ibom Air, Aero Contractors, United Nigeria Airlines, Green Africa Airways, Max Air, Rano Air, ValueJet, and Overland Airways.
This directive marks a significant step toward strengthening passenger management and safety standards across Nigerian aviation.