Flight cancellations: FG threatens to sanction airlines

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concern over increase in the spate of flight cancellations in the country, threatening “stiff sanctions” against airlines which subject passengers to difficulties for “avoidable reason”.

Sam Adurogboye, NCAA’s general manager, publication relations, disclosed this on Tuesday, saying aggrieved passengers have inundated the agency’s offices across the nation.

He warned all airline operators to adhere to the Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) while dealing with passengers.

“Any unjustifiable or avoidable flight cancellation will be viewed with utmost seriousness and where culpability is established, very stiff sanctions will be applied,” Adurogboye said in a statement.

“Notwithstanding, the regulatory authority is very much aware of the prevailing challenges as regards aviation fuel, it is expected that the Airlines should follow strictly the requirements of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) in carrying out their operations.

“The circumstances should not open a window for outright impunity and a flurry of cancellations which has consequently rendered air travel in the country a nightmarish experience.

“Where there is a delay in the service, passengers must be duly informed and light refreshment provided.

“Operators are advised to ensure tickets are not sold to air travellers when there are perceived or real hitches concerning sourcing of aviation fuel (Jet A1).

“While NCAA is not unmindful of the efforts being made by the airlines to avoid operational hiccups, passengers are similarly enjoined to exercise restraint and cooperate with airline officials during eventualities.

“However, the NCAA wishes to reiterate that all airlines should henceforth guard against frequent flight cancellations that will jeopardise the conditions of carriage agreed with the passengers.

“The authority has therefore intensified monitoring at all the nation’s airports.”