NCAA Warns Airlines Against Denying Nigerians Boarding, Deporting Them Mid-Transit
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has condemned the growing trend of airlines selling tickets to Nigerian travellers only to have them denied boarding or deported at transit points due to visa or travel restrictions.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Mr Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, the NCAA described such incidents as “completely unacceptable” and warned that airlines engaging in these practices would face regulatory sanctions.
According to the authority, several complaints have been received from Nigerian passengers who were transported partway to their destinations, only to be turned back at intermediate or transit stops.
These actions have caused distress among affected travellers and have tarnished the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria.
“It is the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destination before they commence their travel,” the NCAA stated. “Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or returned to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate/transit stops.”
The agency referenced Part 19.21.1.1 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, which mandates airlines and their agents to ensure passengers are informed in advance of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions.
It further emphasised that airlines must screen and provide passengers with up-to-date information regarding visa requirements and travel documents before issuing tickets and allowing them to board.
As part of a crackdown on this practice, the NCAA warned that effective immediately, any airline found culpable would face stiff regulatory action. Penalties could include fines, suspension of flight operations, or other punitive measures.
“The NCAA will no longer tolerate these occurrences. We expect the full cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the well-being of Nigerian passengers,” the statement stressed.
