NCAA flags airlines’ disregard for passenger rights during flight disruptions
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has raised concerns that airlines are increasingly ignoring passenger protection requirements under Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) 2023. Director of Public Affairs Michael Achimugu said while delays and cancellations are inevitable, airlines often fail to meet obligations such as informing passengers of delay reasons within 30 minutes, providing refreshments after two hours, offering re-routing or refund after three hours, and arranging hotel accommodation for overnight disruptions. He also cited poor communication, improper handling of refunds, and airlines offering future-ticket discounts instead of the mandated compensation—at least 25% of fare for domestic cancellations unless notified 24 hours earlier. Achimugu’s remarks were based on August data showing 7,961 domestic flights operated, with 4,765 delayed (about 60%) and 36 cancelled, highlighting widespread disruption.
This matters because passengers routinely endure hours at airports without basic amenities, face denied compensation, and struggle with unresolved refunds, leading to financial loss, stress, and eroded trust in Nigerian air travel. Families with children and business travelers are especially affected when airlines treat regulatory duties as optional rather than obligatory.
Travelers should know their rights under Part 19: demand timely information, refreshments after two hours, re-routing or refund after three hours, and hotel stays if stranded overnight. For cancellations, insist on at least 25% fare compensation unless informed a day ahead. Keep records of communications and expenses, and report violations to the NCAA. Knowing these obligations, will you insist on your rights next time your flight is delayed, or accept whatever the airline offers?