AON Slams Lifetime Flight Ban on Passenger Over Violent Assault on Ibom Air Crew
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has imposed a lifetime ban on Ms. Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger, for what it described as one of the most severe cases of unruly behaviour witnessed in the country’s aviation sector this year.
The decision, announced on Monday, 11 August 2025, follows a violent incident aboard Ibom Air flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on Sunday, 10 August 2025.
According to a detailed account by Ibom Air, Ms. Emmanson refused to comply with safety instructions regarding mobile phone usage during the flight. The situation escalated into a brutal physical assault on crew members, during which she allegedly attempted to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon.
AON Spokesperson, Professor Obiora Okonkwo (OFR), said the sustained attack endangered not only the crew but also other passengers and the integrity of the aircraft.
“This behaviour is unacceptable. Therefore, effective immediately, Ms. Emmanson has been placed on AON’s ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely. She is hereby banned from flying with any AON member either domestically or internationally for life,” Prof. Okonkwo stated.
The industry body commended Ibom Air for its swift and professional handling of the crisis, describing its response as exemplary.
AON also highlighted similar recent incidents involving prominent Nigerians, including musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) on a ValueJet flight and Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s altercation with Air Peace staff.
Beyond the passenger ban, AON expressed concern over gaps in airport security response, calling on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to urgently review and strengthen Aviation Security (AVSEC) procedures nationwide.
“We stand united with Ibom Air and all our members in maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards unruly airline passengers. While we recognise the rights of passengers to express their grievances, such actions must follow due process,” Prof. Okonkwo emphasised.
AON reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding airline employees, protecting passengers, and upholding the highest safety standards in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
