ICYMI: NCAA bars pilots from flying with disruptive passengers onboard

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed airlines not to take off whenever disruptive passengers are onboard, warning that carriers that fail to comply could face sanctions.

Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s director of public affairs and consumer protection, spoke on Wednesday during a meeting with domestic airline executives in Abuja.

Achimugu, who represented Chris Najomo, director-general (DG) of NCAA, described the directive as a decisive move to safeguard crew members.

“Pilots are not to depart until disruptive passengers are removed or the matter is settled amicably. This protects crew members and encourages passengers to treat them respectfully,” he said.

The director said passengers have no right to assault or verbally abuse cabin crew, noting that many confrontations escalate because pilots fail to assert their authority, leaving the crew vulnerable.

Achimugu stressed the need for crew to remain professional, adding that “firmness must never be mistaken for rudeness” and urging attendants to stay courteous even in difficult situations.

Also speaking, Ifueko Abdulmalik, senior special assistant to the director-general, warned airlines against neglecting their obligations, including timely communication during delays, prompt refunds, and care for stranded passengers.

The development follows recent clashes between passengers and crew that drew public attention.

Weeks ago, Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger, went viral after she was captured assaulting a flight attendant on an Ibom Air plane and confronting airport security officials.

In another case, Wasiu Ayinde, a popular Fuji musician, disrupted a Lagos-bound flight, blocking the aircraft and delaying departure.

The NCAA also raised other issues, including unresolved compensation claims, enforcement of rules requiring passengers to switch off phones during flights, and the protection of cabin crew from verbal and physical assault.

Airlines present included Arik Air, Air Peace, Ibom Air, Aero Contractors, United Nigeria Airlines, Green Africa Airways, Max Air, Rano Air, ValueJet, and Overland Airways.