The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to publish the names of airlines that cancel or delay flights without valid reasons.
The NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, disclosed the directive on Monday through his official X handle.
Achimugu warned airlines against abandoning passengers and leaving NCAA Consumer Protection officers to manage the anger of stranded travelers.
The director stressed that the Authority will no longer tolerate such practices.
He wrote: “If an airline keeps passengers at the terminal until midnight before cancelling a flight, it owes those passengers hotel accommodation.
“Regulations clearly state that travelers stranded between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. must be provided with lodging.”
Achimugu condemned situations where airline staff disappear during disruptions, forcing NCAA officials to handle frustrated passengers.
The director insisted that operators must meet their obligations despite challenges in the industry.
“Anyone who willingly enters this business must run it properly.
“We cannot always take the easy way out. If airlines want to be world class and compete at the highest level, they must uphold global standards.
“They cannot expose NCAA officials to unnecessary risks when those officials are only protecting passengers and supporting the industry,” he said.
The NCAA spokesperson further noted that the Authority will enforce sanctions where applicable, adding that it will fully uphold its regulations.
He stated: “The Federal Government has ordered us to name and shame airlines that violate these rules.
“In line with the directives from the government and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, we will begin immediate implementation.”
Achimugu concluded by emphasizing that placing NCAA officials in harmful way while they protect passengers’ rights and cover for airlines is unacceptable.
He affirmed that the NCAA will not abandon its duty to enforce the law.
