The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has said it will advocate for stiffer penalties against domestic airlines that repeatedly cause flight delays.
In a statement on Thursday by its Director, Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA said the move aims to address chronic inefficiencies in flight operations and ensure better protection for passengers.
According to the statement, the NCAA has historically supported and defended domestic operators, acknowledging the challenging environment in which they operate.
However, recent events have highlighted lapses that are deemed inexcusable, particularly in communication during flight delays and cancellations, as well as poor passenger handling.
The regulator stressed that the majority of flight disruptions are not caused by airlines, but repeated inefficiency warrants heavier ramifications.
“We will be pushing for stiffer penalties against domestic airlines for chronic delays. We have protected operators, stood for them, explained for them, been insulted for them, and supported them because it is the right thing to do,” the statement read in part.
The statement emphasised that government support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and the DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo should be reciprocated by marked improvements in flight operations.
The NCAA also highlighted the importance of complying with regulations regarding Handling of Technical and Administrative Complaints (HOTAC) and First Needs Compensation.
It linked failures in information management and passenger handling to incidents of passenger unrest at airport terminals. Citing international precedent, the regulator referenced JetBlue’s $2 million fine in the U.S. for chronic flight delays as an example of consequences for repeated inefficiency.
The statement noted that regulations may evolve as challenges emerge and affirmed that the NCAA is committed to reviewing its framework to strengthen enforcement powers, protect passenger rights, and ensure accountability among domestic airlines.
