NCAA Warns Airlines Over Passenger Deportations and Complaints
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a warning to international airlines regarding a rise in complaints from passengers who are only transported partway to their destinations, only to be sent back to Nigeria. The NCAA has condemned this practice, which it asserts has caused significant distress among travelers and tarnished the image of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, shared the agency’s concerns in a statement released on Thursday. He stated, “The actions involving denial of boarding or entry at intermediary or transit points due to visa and travel restrictions are entirely unacceptable.”
The NCAA highlighted that airlines bear the responsibility of informing passengers about potential entry barriers prior to the commencement of their journeys. “Passengers should never find themselves in a situation where they are denied entry or sent back to Nigeria only upon reaching transit locations,” Achimugu emphasized.
Citing the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (Part 19.21.1.1), the NCAA reaffirmed that airlines and their representatives are required to notify travelers of any entry restrictions before their departure. “Airlines must implement suitable measures to screen and provide travelers with precise, current information regarding their travel documents and visa prerequisites prior to ticket issuance and boarding,” he noted.
In response to these concerns, the NCAA has announced immediate enforcement actions. “Effective right away, any airline found to be engaging in these practices will face regulatory repercussions, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other penalties deemed appropriate,” warned Achimugu. He further expressed the NCAA’s expectation for airlines to cooperate in upholding the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry while also ensuring the welfare of Nigerian passengers.
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