NCAA Orders Pilots Not to Take Off with Unruly Passengers Onboard
In a decisive move to bolster safety and discipline in Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a directive prohibiting pilots from taking off if there are unruly passengers on board.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 10, by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, during a meeting with representatives of all domestic airlines in Abuja.
Achimugu emphasized that pilots must ensure all issues involving disruptive passengers are fully resolved before any flight departs. This includes either settling the matter amicably or having the disruptive individuals removed by security personnel.
“Pilots must not fly a plane until unruly passengers are removed from the aircraft by security or the issue resolved amicably. This will go a long way to protect cabin crew and make passengers treat them with courtesy,” Achimugu stated.
The directive is part of NCAA’s broader efforts to enhance safety protocols and protect airline staff, particularly cabin crew, from abusive or threatening behavior during flights.
Airlines operating in Nigeria are now expected to strictly comply with this policy to avoid penalties and ensure smooth, safe air travel for all passengers. The NCAA also called on all aviation stakeholders to prioritize respect and professionalism within the air travel environment.
The issue of unruly passengers has become a growing concern globally, and Nigerian authorities are stepping up enforcement to ensure that such behavior is not tolerated within the country’s airspace.
This directive marks a significant step toward improving passenger conduct and safeguarding aviation personnel across Nigeria.
