NCAA Summons Domestic Airlines for Urgent Safety and Passenger Talks

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Nigeria's Civil Aviation Authority has called all domestic airlines to an emergency meeting in Abuja on Wednesday to tackle rising unruly passenger incidents, refund delays, and new tech for better flight tracking, amid efforts to smooth air travel for millions.

The gathering, set for September 10, 2025, comes as aviation regulators push to enforce stricter protocols following a string of disruptions that have frustrated flyers and strained operations.

NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu confirmed the invite on X, noting it addresses immediate concerns like handling disruptive behavior and protecting crew, while introducing tools such as RFID bag tags to monitor luggage and flights more effectively.

"The meeting will cover everything from passenger protocols to unresolved compensations," Achimugu said, emphasizing the need for collaboration to avoid escalation.

Key agenda items include unruly passenger behavior and handling procedures, a hot-button issue after recent high-profile cases involving assaults on crew and celebrities spilling drinks on staff.

Regulators have already warned that such actions could lead to denied boarding, arrests, or court referrals, with the NCAA vowing tougher sanctions. Refund and compensation disputes—often tied to delays or cancellations—will also be hashed out, as airlines face heat for slow payouts despite legal mandates.

The introduction of RFID technology aims to cut lost baggage woes, while enforcing full phone switch-offs during takeoff and landing (banning flight mode) seeks to safeguard cabin crew from interference.

Passenger experience tops the list too, with calls for quicker resolutions to delays caused by weather, maintenance, or scheduling overloads.

This follows August's mandate for complete device shutdowns and joint sensitization campaigns with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

Airlines have been hit with complaints, but operators argue systemic issues like bird strikes and fuel shortages play a role—though the NCAA insists compliance can't wait.

The session will stream live on the NCAA's X (@NigeriaCAA) and Facebook handles, allowing public oversight.

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