The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is considering stricter sanctions against domestic airlines over persistent flight delays, signalling a tougher regulatory stance on recurrent operational inefficiencies.
This was disclosed via the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu.
According to Achimugu, the aviation regulator has consistently supported airline operators despite public criticism, but recent developments have made stronger enforcement measures necessary.
“We will be pushing for stiffer penalties against domestic airlines for chronic delays. We have protected operators, stood up for them, explained on their behalf, endured insults, and supported them because it was the right thing to do,” he said.
While noting that most flight disruptions are not directly caused by airlines, Achimugu stressed that repeated inefficiencies can no longer be overlooked.
“The majority of flight disruptions are not caused by the airlines, but recent events justify the need for heavier ramifications where there is recurrent inefficiency,” he added.
He further stated that the level of support extended to the aviation industry by the current administration and regulatory authorities should reasonably translate into improved passenger service.
Achimugu said, “When an industry is supported by government in the way His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done; the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN; the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo; and our Consumer Protection Department, the minimum expectation of reciprocity is a noticeable improvement in flight operations and overall service standards.”
