The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced the removal of the lifetime ban earlier imposed on Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger penalised for unruly conduct.
In a statement issued on Thursday, AON spokesperson Professor Obiora Okonkwo said the decision followed an appeal from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Okonkwo explained that the operators agreed to lift the sanction after considering several factors, including Emmanson’s expression of remorse, the withdrawal of the complaint, the dismissal of charges, and her release from custody.
He commended the Federal Government for introducing a retreat to retrain Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and airline crew on handling disruptive passengers and urged aviation agencies to intensify public education on the risks and legal consequences of unruly behaviour, as outlined in Section 85 of the Civil Aviation Act, 2022, and Part 17 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023. Such actions include assault or threats to crew members, refusal to follow safety instructions, smoking in restricted areas, fighting, disorderly behaviour, or tampering with aircraft equipment.
The AON reiterated that pilots-in-command and AVSEC officers have the authority to restrain and de-board disruptive passengers, handing them over to the appropriate authorities to maintain safety and order.
“We confirm that members shall cooperate with the relevant aviation agencies and participate in the retraining retreats on how to handle cases of unruly and disruptive passengers as proposed by the minister,” Okonkwo added.
