NCAA warns Airlines Int’l on passenger travel restrictions

Thursday, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) warned international airlines on passenger travel restrictions.

This is contained in a declaration signed by Michael Achimugu, director of the protection of consumers and public affairs of the NCAA in Abuja.

According to Achimugu, the NCAA has received several complaints about the airlines that sell tickets for passengers, only for planes halfway to their destinations and return them to Nigeria.

“These actions, which provide for the refusal of the boarding/entry in intermediate/transit stop to some Nigerians due to the visa/travel restrictions cause a significant anguish to the passengers and obscuring the reputation of the aeronautical industry in Nigeria.

“NCAA finds these practices completely unacceptable. It is the responsibility of the airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their eligibility for their destination before they start their journey.

“Passengers should not be put in a position in which he is denied the entrance or returned to Nigeria only upon arrival at intermediate/transit stops,” he said.

According to him, in line with the provisions of the regulations of the civil aviation of Nigeria 2023, part 19.21.1.1, all airlines and agents guarantee that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility problems or travel restrictions in advance of their departure.

The director said that airlines should take appropriate measures for the screen and provide passengers with accurate and updated information relating to their travel documents and visa requirements before making a ticket and proceeding to board.

“In light of this, the NCAA informs all the international airlines that operate in Nigeria that the authority will no longer tolerate these events.

“Currently, any airline found in these practices will be subject to regulatory actions, including but not limited to fines, suspension of flight operations or other measures deemed appropriate.

“NCAA expects the cooperation of all airlines to maintain the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as guaranteeing the well -being of Nigerian passengers.”