NCAA Cracks Down on Domestic Airlines Over Poor Treatment of Passengers Amid Peak Holiday Travel

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken decisive action against three domestic carriers — Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airlines — after reports emerged of inadequate communication and poor passenger welfare during recent flight delays and cancellations at Abuja’s airport.

NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, said the enforcement visit to the airlines’ Abuja operations was triggered by multiple complaints that travellers were left uninformed and without basic care, such as light refreshments after prolonged delays, in violation of Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.

While acknowledging the usual challenges that come with the December peak travel season, Achimugu emphasised that safety nets for passengers — including clear and timely updates — must be upheld by carriers. The authority has reportedly issued an ultimatum to the airlines and warned that further actions, including sanctions, will be taken where necessary.

The NCAA’s intervention reflects intensified regulatory scrutiny over flight disruptions and consumer complaints across Nigeria’s aviation sector, where passenger welfare concerns have been mounting ahead of the end‑of‑year rush.