Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has ordered airlines not to take off if disruptive passengers are on board, warning that carriers failing to comply could face sanctions.
NCAA’s spokesman Michael Achimugu announced the directive on Wednesday during a meeting with domestic airline executives in Abuja. He represented Chris Najomo, the agency’s director-general.
“Pilots are not to depart until disruptive passengers are removed or the matter is settled amicably. This protects crew members and encourages passengers to treat them respectfully,” Achimugu said.
He stressed that passengers had no right to assault or verbally abuse cabin crew, adding that many confrontations escalated because pilots failed to assert their authority. Achimugu urged attendants to remain professional, noting that “firmness must never be mistaken for rudeness.”
Ifueko Abdulmalik, senior special assistant to the director-general, reminded airlines of their obligations to passengers, including timely communication during delays, prompt refunds and care for those stranded.
The order follows recent high-profile clashes between passengers and crew. Last month, a woman identified as Comfort Emmanson was filmed assaulting a flight attendant on an Ibom Air service before confronting airport security officials. In another case, Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde disrupted a Lagos-bound flight, blocking the aircraft and delaying departure.
The NCAA also flagged unresolved compensation claims, enforcement of rules requiring mobile phones to be switched off during flights, and the need to shield cabin crew from abuse.
Airlines present at the Abuja meeting included Arik Air, Air Peace, Ibom Air, Aero Contractors, United Nigeria Airlines, Green Africa Airways, Max Air, Rano Air, ValueJet and Overland Airways.
