The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced plans to push for harsher penalties against domestic airlines that repeatedly cause flight delays, signalling a tougher regulatory stance to protect passengers.
The disclosure was made in a statement issued on Thursday by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA.
According to the regulator, the move is aimed at tackling persistent operational inefficiencies, improving passenger experience, and enforcing accountability among local carriers.
The NCAA said it has historically supported domestic airlines, recognising the difficult operating environment they face. However, it noted that recent incidents have exposed unacceptable lapses, particularly poor communication during delays and cancellations, as well as inadequate passenger handling.
While acknowledging that many flight disruptions are caused by factors beyond airlines’ control, the regulator stressed that repeated inefficiency cannot be excused.
“We will be pushing for stiffer penalties against domestic airlines for chronic delays. We have protected operators, stood up for them, explained for them, and supported them because it was the right thing to do,” the statement said.
The NCAA added that the support extended to airlines by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, and Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo must be matched by clear improvements in operations and service delivery.
The regulator emphasised strict compliance with rules on Handling of Technical and Administrative Complaints (HOTAC) and First Needs Compensation, warning that failures in communication and passenger care often lead to unrest at airport terminals.
It cited international precedent, referencing JetBlue’s $2 million fine in the United States for chronic delays, as an example of the consequences of repeated operational failures.
The NCAA said its regulatory framework would continue to evolve to address emerging challenges, strengthen enforcement powers, protect passenger rights, and ensure domestic airlines are held accountable.
Flight delays remain a major concern in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Data shows that between September and October 2024, domestic airlines recorded 5,225 delays and 901 cancellations out of 10,804 flights, representing 48.3 per cent delays and 8.3 per cent cancellations.
Although some delays are unavoidable due to weather or technical issues, the NCAA insists airlines must comply with passenger protection regulations and improve communication, planning, and coordination.
With the regulator now signalling tougher sanctions, domestic airlines are under increasing pressure to boost efficiency, improve customer service, and reduce avoidable delays.
