Good News for Passengers as NCAA Approves 10 New Aircraft for Air Peace, Others to Increase Capacity
- To boost local airlines' capacity and provide a seamless flying experience, the NCAA has authorised 10 additional planes
- Michael Achimugu, the director of consumer protection and public affairs, noted their aim was to safeguard passenger rights
- The director enumerated the rights of passengers, including the right to timely information and refreshments during delays
CHECK OUT: Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with LEGIT. Enroll Now!
Legit.ng journalist Zainab Iwayemi has 5-year-experience covering the Economy, Technology, and Capital Market.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved 10 new aircraft to increase local airlines' capacity and guarantee a smooth travel experience for passengers throughout the holiday season.
Source: Getty Images
Michael Achimugu, the director of consumer protection and public affairs, emphasised the NCAA's dedication to safeguarding passenger rights. He advised tourists to become aware of their rights and obligations and to notify the NCAA of any infractions or disturbances.
“We are now in the high travel season in the aviation sector, and as you know, there have been a lot of flight disruptions over the year,” Achimugu said.
“Our duty at the NCAA is to sensitize our passengers, because most of the times, when complaints come about these disruptions, it comes from a place of poor knowledge about their rights and responsibilities as air passengers.”
In his speech, Achimugu listed travellers' rights, such as the right to prompt information, refreshments in the event of delays, and compensation for major flight cancellations.
He also clarified that airlines are responsible for following rules and paying fair compensation for delays.
“The airlines owe a responsibility to the passengers to, after 30 minutes, provide information, after two hours, provide refreshment. Where the passenger’s flight has been canceled beyond the hours of 10 pm and 4 am, they are entitled to accommodation,” he explained.
The NCAA expressed hope that the 10 new aircraft would improve the overall passenger experience and lessen flight disruptions in Nigeria.
The organisation also said concerted efforts were ongoing to address passenger grievances and guarantee adherence to aviation laws.
“There will not be disruptions this festive season, because of the Hon. Minister’s signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction and my DDCA, Capt. Idera, more aircraft are coming into the country,” Achimugu stated. “Recently, there are 10 new aircraft in Nigeria, spread across airlines, Ibom Air, Air Peace, United Nigeria. These have ramped up the fleets in Nigeria, because we have always had capacity problems. But now, we have more planes. The disruptions are going to reduce.”
The NCAA's aggressive initiatives and dedication to passenger welfare indicate a bright future for air travel in Nigeria. The agency is well-positioned to play a crucial part in guaranteeing a safe, effective, and passenger-friendly experience as the aviation industry grows.
NCAA sends important message to pilots
Legit.ng earlier reported that the NCAA warned flight crews, especially pilots, against working for multiple airlines concurrently while utilising the privilege simulators and competency checks permitted under their licenses.
The authority said such behaviour would be considered a serious violation. NCAA's acting director-general, Chris Najomo, issued a circular to all aircraft operators on November 6, 2024, explaining their new directive.
Proofreading by James, Ojo Adakole, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!
Source: Legit.ng
