Flight Delays, Cancellations, And Deportations: NCAA Cracks Down On Airline Failures

Nigerian air travellers faced a turbulent 2024, as data from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) revealed a staggering 34,424 cases of flight disruptions. Over 70,000 domestic flights operated last year, more than 33,000 were delayed, while nearly 1,200 flights were outrightly cancelled.

Air Peace led the disruption list, which recorded 7,619 delays and 333 cancellations. Arik Air followed with 5,027 delays and 215 cancellations, while Ibom Air had 2,739 delays and 140 cancellations.

Experts say part of the problem lies in airlines struggling to maintain their fleets. Operators have had difficulty accessing foreign exchange to repair aircraft stuck overseas, leading to shrinking flight capacity. Speaking to Vanguard, Top Brass Aviation CEO Roland Iyayi stated that some local airlines have had funds tied up in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for over two years and cannot secure the necessary dollars to bring their planes back into operation.

But flight disruptions aren’t the only concern. The NCAA has also sounded the alarm on an increasing number of Nigerian passengers being transported halfway to their destinations, only to be deported back home.

Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, condemned the practice, addressing it in a statement on Thursday. He warned that airlines must properly inform travellers of visa or travel restrictions before departure, ensuring they are not stranded at transit stops.

“These actions, which involve the refusal of boarding or denial of entry at intermediate or transit stops due to visa and travel restrictions, are entirely unacceptable.

“Airlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up-to-date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing tickets or allowing boarding,” he added.

The NCAA has announced strict penalties for airlines found guilty of failing passengers to curb these issues. Those engaging in these practices may face fines, flight suspensions, or other regulatory actions.

As Nigeria’s aviation sector struggles with these challenges, travellers are left hoping for a smoother, more reliable experience in the skies.

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Chinalurumogu Eze

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