NCAA vows to punish foreign airlines over deportation of Nigerian passengers
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has frowned at foreign airlines that airlift Nigerian passengers halfway to their destinations and deport them back to the country.
The NCAA maintained that this action causes significant distress to passengers and tarnishing the reputation of aviation industry in the country.
Disturbed by this ugly development, the authority vowed to mete out severe punishment to international airlines found culpable in accordance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation 2023.
The aviation regulator made this known in a statement issued by its Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Mr. Michael Achimugu.
The statement reads thus: The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has received several complaints about airline selling tickets to passengers, only to airlift them halfway to their destinations and deport them back to Nigeria.
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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 NCAA finds such practices completely unacceptable. It is the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destinations before they commence their travel. Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or returned to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate/transit stops.
In line with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, all airlines and their agents shall ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions in advance of their departure. 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, 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 NCAA 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.
