NCAA Warns Airlines Against Deceitful Departure Time Scheduling

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The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to airlines engaging in misleading departure time scheduling, stating that such practices will not be tolerated and will result in regulatory sanctions.

Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director-General of NCAA, emphasized the authority's zero-tolerance policy towards regulatory infractions in a statement released on Tuesday, July 9. The directive, signed by Mr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs/Consumer Protection, outlined the consequences for airlines failing to adhere to accurate departure time representations.

"The NCAA now operates under a zero-tolerance policy for regulatory violations. Facilitating ease of doing business is central to the Director-General's action plan for the NCAA. In alignment with this plan, licensing procedures for operators have been streamlined, making the acquisition of Air Operator's Certificates (AOC) quicker and less burdensome than before. The NCAA expects reciprocal adherence from airlines, foremost among which is delivering world-class services to passengers," Najomo stated.

He further stressed that airlines must meet high service standards if they are to benefit from the business-friendly environment facilitated by the NCAA.

"It has come to our attention that certain airlines have been cited for misleading advertising of departure times. NCAA regulations prohibit airlines from displaying inaccurate departure times at their counters, in advertising materials, or on their websites. The Director-General has directed intensified monitoring, and violators will face severe regulatory consequences," Najomo affirmed.

Addressing concerns about refund processes, Najomo underscored that all refunds by airlines must be promptly executed without unnecessary delays. The process, regardless of the ticket purchase method, must be completed within 14 working days.

Regarding the recent suspension of licenses for ten operators, Najomo clarified that these operators had been instructed since April 2024 to commence recertification processes but failed to comply, leaving the NCAA with no choice but to impose sanctions.

The NCAA's decisive measures aim to uphold transparency and consumer protection in Nigeria's aviation sector, ensuring that airlines uphold ethical standards and provide reliable services to passengers.