NCAA threatens to fine, suspend intl carriers over deportation of passengers, denied boarding

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concern over the actions of foreign airlines it accused of selling tickets to passengers only to airlift them halfway their destinations and deport them back to Nigeria.

It stated that it had received several complaints  about the issue that has caused pain to travellers.

The authority has however warned that any airline found to be engaging in such practices will be subject to regulatory action, including but not limited to fines, suspension of flight operations or other measures deemed appropriate

The aviation regulatory body stated that these actions which involve the refusal of boarding/entry of intermediate/ transit stops  to some Nigerians due to visa/travel restrictions are causing significant distress to passengers and tarnishing the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria.

The Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu in a statement on Thursday said the NCAA finds such policies completely unacceptable, further describing it as the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destinations before they commence their travel.

He further stated that passengers must not be put in a position where they are denied  entry or returned to Nigeria only on arrival at international/transit stops.

He reiterated that this is in line with provision of Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1 that states that all airlines and their agents shall ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions in advanceof their departure.

He said, “Airlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up to date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing a ticket and proceeding to board them”.

Consequently, the NCAA has informed international airlines operating in Nigeria that it would no longer tolerate these occurrences.

“Effective immediately, any airline found to be engaging in such practices will be subject to regulatory action, including but not limited to fines, suspension of flight operations or other measures deemed appropriate”.

Wole Shadare