NCAA Launches Awareness Campaign On Passenger, Airline Rights

The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has announced a nationwide awareness campaign to educate travelers and airlines on their rights and obligations.

The initiative, spearheaded by the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Department, aims to bridge the gap between passengers and airlines while ensuring adherence to aviation regulations.

During a briefing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Capt. Najomo emphasized the importance of informing passengers about their entitlements and responsibilities.

He stated, “This awareness campaign is to let passengers know their rights and obligations, and to ensure airlines uphold their duties. It’s not about always siding with passengers or airlines but ensuring fair treatment for both.”

Highlighting common issues such as flight delays, Capt. Najomo explained the regulations:

“After 2 hours of delay. Airlines must provide snacks and refreshments. After 3 hours. Passengers are entitled to refunds, either in cash or processed online within two weeks. After 4 hours**: Airlines must provide hotel accommodations for overnight delays.”

The DG also urged airlines to communicate potential delays promptly to passengers through SMS or other channels, allowing them to adjust their plans.

“No airline wants to delay a flight intentionally. There are often external factors, but timely communication can reduce frustration,” Najomo remarked.

The NCAA campaign, which has already commenced at major airports such as Port Harcourt, will expand nationwide to increase public awareness.

Najomo assured travelers of improved experiences this festive season, citing the addition of several new aircraft to the fleets of airlines like Air Peace, United Nigeria, Ibom Air, and ValueJet.

The Director of Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, reiterated the NCAA’s commitment to fairness, stressing that the agency supports passengers when they are wronged but also backs airlines when justified.

He explained that the initiative is not solely about holding airlines accountable but about ensuring mutual understanding of rights and obligations.

“When passengers arrive late for check-in, they cannot blame the airline. But if they are denied boarding despite following the rules, the NCAA steps in,” said Achimugu.

He encouraged passengers to familiarize themselves with aviation regulations to avoid conflicts and assured them of the NCAA’s readiness to mediate disputes.