…Threatens To Sanction Airlines For Unjustifiable, Avoidable Flight Cancellations
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned airline operators that it would no longer tolerate increase in flight cancellations that would jeopardise the conditions of carriage agreed with the passengers.
NCAA’s concern is coming on the heels of several reports from the Consumer Protection Officers (CPOs) and aggrieved passengers have inundated NCAA’s offices from across the nation’s airports.
It stated that notwithstanding, it was much aware of the prevailing challenges as regards aviation fuel and that it is expected that the Airlines should follow strictly the requirements Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs)in carrying out their operations.
Recalled that airlines have resulted to delaying and cancelling of flights due to what they termed the non availability of aviation fuel.
An online statement signed by the General Manager, Public Relations, Mr Sam Adurogboye warned airlines that the circumstances should not open a window for outright impunity and a flurry of cancellations which has consequently rendered air travel in the country a nightmarish experience.
According to him, “All airline operators are therefore warned to adhere to the Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) while dealing with passengers. Many of whom have parted with their hard earned cash in return for comfort and value while commuting to their destinations. Therefore sufficient notice must be accorded all intending passengers prior to any operational cancellation. Where there is a delay in the service, passengers must be duly informed and light refreshment provided”
The NCAA advised airlines to ensure tickets are not sold to air travellers when there are perceived or real hitches concerning sourcing of aviation fuel also known as Jet A1.
The regulatory body added that while NCAA is not unmindful of the efforts being made by the airlines to avoid operational hiccups, passengers are similarly advised to exercise restraint and cooperate with airline officials during eventualities.
NCAA stated that the Federal Government of Nigeria was already taking measures that would ameliorate the paucity of Jet A1, adding that steps would guarantee availability and allow operators provide adequate services.
It however reiterated that all airlines should henceforth guard against frequent flight cancellations that would jeopardise the conditions of carriage agreed with the passengers.
NCAA further stated that it had intensified monitoring at all the nation’s airports, warning that subsequently, any unjustifiable or avoidable flight cancellation would be viewed with utmost seriousness and where culpability is established very stiff sanctions would be applied.
