NCAA Speaks on United Nigeria Airline Landing its Anambra-bound Passengers In Asaba

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has responded to United Nigeria Airline dropping passengers at the wrong destination.

Recall that, on Saturday, instead of landing at Chinua Achebe International Cargo Airport Umuleri (ANA), the airline landed an Anambra-bound flight at Asaba International Airport (ABB). Allegedly, the reason for the diversion was related to the chairman of the airline, Mr. Obiora Okonkwo, who was waiting to use that plane.

One of the passengers, an X user identified as Black Sheep (@9jaDisciple), had called the attention of West Africa Weekly and other new agents to the situation. He lamented over the inconveniences the airline caused its travellers – from a five-hour delay to barely providing food and the diversion that left passengers stressed.

In response to the situation, NCCA shared a post on X to reassure the general public of its commitment to the enforcement of aviation rules.

The post reads, “Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is aware of the diversion of United Nigeria Airlines flight UN542 Lagos – Anambra to Asaba which occurred on 30th December 2023.”

“While flight diversions are not uncommon in the air transportation business, NCAA is investigating this incident and wishes to assure the general public of aviation safety, compliance, and strict enforcement of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.”

“We have been informed by United Nigeria airline staff that some passengers have been taken to the Hotel, while others chose alternative means of transportation to their destination.”

The statement was issued by Michael Achimugu, the  Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, on behalf of the Director General of Civil Aviation. While the body’s promise of monitoring the situation closely is commendable, United Nigeria Airline has not publicly commented on the situation.

The airline, however, sent messages to the affected passengers apologizing for the ANA/ABB diversion, which it -yet again!- attributed to bad weather conditions (once more). The promise of a 25% discount was included in the text, which @9jaDisciple disclosed in a subsequent post.

As the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other aviation authorities investigate the genuineness of the situation, we will update this. Fly safe!

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Confidence Ubani

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