All international airlines operating in Nigeria have been read the riot act by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which will no longer tolerate denied boarding and deportation of Nigerians.
As a result of complaints about airlines selling tickets to passengers, airlifting them halfway to their destinations, and deporting them back to Nigeria, the NCAA issued a warning.
Nigerians are denied entry and boarding at intermediate and transit stops due to visa or travel restrictions, which causes distress to passengers and tarnishes the reputation of the aviation industry.
It was announced by the NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, that airlines found engaging in such practices would be subject to regulatory action, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other appropriate measures, effective immediately.
As stated in the statement, “The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has received several complaints about airlines selling tickets to passengers, only to airlift them halfway to their destinations and deport them back home.
The refusal of boarding/entry at intermediate/transit stops to some Nigerians due to visa/travel restrictions is causing significant distress to passengers and tarnishing Nigeria’s aviation industry’s reputation.”
Such practices are completely unacceptable to the NCAA. Airlines are responsible for informing passengers about potential barriers to their admissibility at their destinations.
It should not be possible for passengers to be denied entry or to be returned to Nigeria only at intermediate/transit stops.
In accordance with Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, airlines and their agents must inform passengers of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions in advance of their departure.
The statement continues: “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.
“In light of this, the NCAA informs all international airlines operating in Nigeria that the Authority will no longer tolerate these occurrences.
“Effective immediately, any airline found to be engaged 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 Authority said it expects the cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the well-being of Nigerian passengers.
