NCAA warns international airlines against travel restriction of passengers at transit stops
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority on Thursday warned international airlines on passenger travel restriction issues.
This is contained in a statement signed by the NCAA Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, in Abuja.
According to Mr Achimugu, NCAA has received several complaints about airlines selling tickets to passengers, only to airlift them halfway to their destinations and return them back to Nigeria.
He said, “These actions, which involve refusal of boarding/entry at 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 destination 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.’’
According to him, in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 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.
The director said airlines ought to 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.
“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,” he said.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
States
Insecurity: Traditional ruler urges FG to deploy MOPOL in Uromi
The traditional ruler lamented that the existing Uromi Divisional Police Station was inadequate to check the rising crime.
States
Lawmaker pays N14.4 million to enrol 800 constituents in health scheme
Mr Etteh noted that with sound health, the people could maximise their potential and benefit more from government plans.
NationWide
Military killed several terrorist commanders, fighters in three months: Official
He said the troops demonstrated uncommon bravery, resilience, determination, and strong will during various encounters.
States
Kidnap syndicate lured Ghanaians to Nigeria for U.S., Canadian visas: Amotekun
Amotekun operatives apprehended the suspects after they allegedly abducted and lured some Ghanaians through various visa scams to Nigeria.
Politics
PDP to appeal Edo tribunal judgment affirming Gov. Okpebholo’s victory
The party described the tribunal’s judgment as a miscarriage of justice.
States
Agbor Flooding: Delta begs residents to stopping dumping waste in waterways
Mr Aniagwu said, “Nobody plays politics with natural disasters.’’
