“NCAA Reaffirms Passenger Compensation Rights: Addressing 2024 Airline Challenges and Outlining a Vision for 2025”

In a pivotal announcement in 2024, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) reaffirmed passengers’ rights to compensation for flight delays, cancellations, and baggage issues. Mr. Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, outlined these rights during a press conference in Abuja, stressing the need for accountability among airlines.

“Passengers are entitled to a ₦10,000 first-needs payment for missing luggage on domestic flights and $170 for international flights while the search is ongoing,” Achimugu stated. He added that airlines must locate missing luggage within 7 days for domestic flights and 21 days for international flights. Luggage officially declared lost after these periods triggers compensation and a refund of any fees paid for the baggage.

Achimugu also emphasized the urgency of ticket refunds for canceled or delayed flights. “Refunds must be immediate for cash payments and within 14 days for other payment methods. Delays in processing may only occur if passengers fail to submit required documentation promptly,” he said.

Mr. Horatius Egua, NCAA Director of Special Duties, urged passengers to be informed about their rights. “Through increased education and regulatory oversight, passengers can demand better treatment and services in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Egua stated.

Mrs. Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Adviser to NCAA Acting Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo, highlighted the airlines’ obligations to ensure timely departures, baggage security, and compensation for service failures. “Passengers have the right to flight schedules, fare transparency, and adequate baggage protection, as well as compensation for delays and refunds for unused tickets within seven days,” she said.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As the NCAA emphasizes transparency, economist Mr. Celestine Ukpong has called for airlines to publish updated data on compensation claims paid to passengers. This move, he argued, would bolster trust and accountability in the aviation sector.

Flashback to 2017: Arik Air Controversy

The NCAA’s renewed stance comes against the backdrop of enduring challenges in the aviation sector. A viral incident in 2017 involving an irate Arik Air passenger who assaulted an airline official following a 10-hour flight delay underscored the frustrations of Nigerian travelers. Despite calls for action, no legal steps were taken against the assailant. Social media reactions to the  altercation revealed a mix of condemnation of the violence and shared grievances about poor service.

Still with Arik Air, a notorious for flight delays and mishandled luggage in 2016 for leaving passengers’ belongings stranded at London Heathrow Airport.

As Nigeria enters 2025, the NCAA should strengthening its regulatory framework to ensure airlines adhere to passenger rights and deliver better service, fostering a more accountable and consumer-centric aviation sector.