Nigerian Aviation Authority Warns Airlines Over False Departure Times
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed strong disapproval of the increasing instances of false departure time scheduling by local airlines. The regulatory body has issued a stern warning to airlines to cease these infractions or face severe penalties.
On Tuesday, the Acting Director General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, addressed the issue from the authority’s corporate headquarters in Abuja, reiterating the NCAA’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards regulatory breaches.
Capt. Najomo emphasized the NCAA’s firm stance, stating that all passenger refunds must be processed without unnecessary delays, mandating completion within 14 working days regardless of the ticket purchase method. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure consumer protection and enhance service quality.
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, conveyed Najomo’s message in a media interview. Najomo underscored the importance of facilitating business operations for airlines, highlighting improvements in the licensing process, such as a shorter and less cumbersome timeline for obtaining Air Operator Certificates (AOC). He stressed the necessity for airlines to reciprocate these efforts by delivering world-class services to passengers.
Achimugu pointed out that recent reports indicate some airlines are advertising deceptive departure times, which is a direct violation of NCAA regulations. “No airline shall display deceitful passenger departure time at its counter, advert material, or on its website,” he quoted, adding that the Director General has instructed rigorous monitoring and promised stringent regulatory actions against offenders.
Highlighting the NCAA’s commitment to safety, discipline, and economic regulation, Achimugu referenced the recent suspension of 10 Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) holders who failed to comply with recertification advisories issued in April 2024. He affirmed that while the NCAA supports the profitability of airlines due to their vital role in the economy, it is equally crucial to ensure passengers are treated fairly.
Further illustrating the NCAA’s dedication to excellence, Achimugu noted the authority’s impressive performance in the Presidential Enabling Business Council (PEBEC) ranking, achieving a score of 98.5 per cent. This milestone follows the commendable 71.04 per cent score attained during the year’s ICAO Security Audit. “The numbers are improving, and we will continue to do what we can to make the industry safer, and more secure for passengers and stakeholders,” Achimugu concluded.
