The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has instructed domestic airlines to halt flights if unruly passengers are on board, warning that such behavior poses risks to safety and crew welfare.
Gatekeepers News reports that NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Najumo, issued the directive during a meeting with airline operators in Abuja. He was represented by the Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu.
Najumo said the Authority has noted a troubling increase in incidents where passengers harass cabin crew and film altercations to spread online, often casting airlines in a negative light.
“Henceforth, no pilot should fly an aircraft if there is an unruly passenger on board. That passenger must either be removed by security or the matter resolved amicably before the aircraft departs,” Najumo declared.
He acknowledged passengers’ right to quality service but stressed that they also bear the responsibility of proper conduct. According to him, many conflicts escalate because pilots hesitate to assert control and cabin crew fear being misrepresented on social media.
“Passengers must understand that being a customer gives you rights, but it also places on you certain responsibilities. No one has the right to touch a cabin crew member. Cabin crew deserve to carry out their duties with courtesy and dignity,” he said.
The NCAA boss expressed concern over a recent incident where public sympathy sided with a passenger, leaving the affected crew member unsupported. He noted that such confrontations can have lasting psychological and physical impacts on aviation staff.
Najumo also reminded travelers that firmness from cabin crew should not be mistaken for rudeness, adding that safety instructions—including switching off mobile devices—are non-negotiable.
While assuring airlines of continued regulatory support, Najumo emphasized that the NCAA “stands firmly with airlines and crew” in managing disruptive passengers, even as its Consumer Protection Department works to address issues around flight delays and service quality.
