The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a directive to domestic airlines, warning pilots not to commence flights until unruly passengers are either removed from the aircraft or their disputes resolved.
The order was given by NCAA Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, and conveyed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, during a meeting with airline operators in Abuja on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
“Pilots must not fly until unruly passengers are removed from the aircraft by security or the issue is resolved amicably. This will go a long way to protect cabin crew and ensure passengers treat them with courtesy,” Achimugu said. He stressed that harassment or abuse of airline staff had become too frequent, adding, “No passenger has the right to touch any cabin crew.” Premium Tmes reported.
The NCAA also reminded cabin crew to maintain professionalism when dealing with travellers. “Cabin crew should not be rude, and passengers should not misconstrue firmness as rudeness,” Achimugu cautioned.
Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Assistant to the NCAA DG, warned that airlines would be sanctioned for failing to provide timely care and communication to passengers during delays or cancellations, which remain recurring problems in the sector.
Don’t Miss This:
Top 5 Travel Agencies in Africa
The regulator said the new measures are part of wider reforms designed to restore discipline, civility, and accountability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Airlines present at the Abuja meeting included Air Peace, Arik, Ibom Air, Aero Contractors, United Nigeria, Max Air, Rano Air, ValueJet, Green Africa and Overland.
Discussions also covered unresolved compensation complaints, enforcement of phone switch-off rules, plans to protect cabin crew, and the possible introduction of RFID bag tags and flight monitoring systems to improve efficiency.
The NCAA further disclosed plans to launch a nationwide passenger awareness campaign to educate Nigerians on their rights and responsibilities when travelling.
Unruly passenger behaviour, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assault, has become a growing global challenge.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently reported a rise in such incidents since the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Nigeria, the problem is often worsened by delays, cancellations, and poor communication by airlines.
Reacting to the development, Martin Abhulimen, Regional Manager for Ibom Air in Lagos and West Africa, said the directive was timely, noting that the airline already follows due diligence in handling unruly passengers and is working to strengthen its customer service operations.
Don’t Miss This:
Top 5 Aircraft Maintenance Providers in Africa
Image Credit: Lagos Talks
