Following the consistent flight delays and cancellations during this festive season, Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the NCAA, has called for a meeting with airlines’ Chief Executive Officers (CEOs).
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), who disclosed this in his X handle stated that Najomo is cutting short an important assignment to meet with all the CEOs of domestic airlines in Nigeria on Friday, adding that this is proof that the Authority cares.
BusinessDay had earlier reported that current aircraft size and poor weather have increased flight cancellations and delays across various local destinations despite a recent boost in capacity.
Achimugu recounted an experience he had while trying to catch his flight.
“I walked into the scene this evening while trying to catch a flight myself. Passengers were really angry and threatened to become violent.
“I personally addressed them and engaged for about 20 minutes, explaining that I would confirm from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) if the weather was truly bad. I also explained that the airline does not have liability in the event of force majeure,” he said.
The NCAA director said that despite this, he took certain measures to address the concerns of passengers.
“I insisted that the airline provide transportation back to the Central area for all passengers. I paid for nearby accommodation (Peace Media Hotel) for a few elderly passengers who looked too weak after the lengthy wait,” he said.