NCAA Ensures Smooth Holiday Travel with Increased Fleet Capacity and Awareness Campaign
In a bid to ensure a seamless air travel experience during the busy yuletide season, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has implemented several measures aimed at reducing flight disruptions. According to Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at NCAA, the organisation is committed to enhancing air travel operations across the country.
As part of this initiative, the NCAA has approved the addition of 10 new aircraft to Nigeria’s aviation fleet, significantly boosting the capacity for air operations. This move follows the signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction and a key agreement with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), led by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo.
The fleet expansion is expected to reduce delays and cancellations, ensuring a smoother travel experience for passengers during the holiday season. Achimugu emphasized that the NCAA is taking proactive steps to ensure air travel runs without disruptions, especially as the country enters the high travel season, typically marked by a surge in demand.
NCAA’s Road Show Campaign Promotes Passenger Awareness
In addition to expanding fleet capacity, the NCAA has launched a series of public awareness initiatives. On Wednesday, the agency held a Road Show/Enlightenment Campaign in Port Harcourt aimed at educating air travelers about the proper procedures for filing complaints in case of disruptions.
The campaign is designed to foster transparency and accountability in the aviation sector, empowering passengers to better understand their rights and responsibilities. Achimugu stressed that the NCAA is committed to fairness, supporting passengers when they are wronged while also standing by airlines when justified.
He urged travelers to familiarize themselves with aviation regulations to avoid potential conflicts, adding that many passengers are unaware that the NCAA is the appropriate body to report disruptions and violations of passenger rights.
A Focus on Resolving Disputes and Protecting Passenger Rights
Achimugu acknowledged the rise in complaints related to flight disruptions, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about passenger rights. He explained that many of these complaints stem from a lack of knowledge about how to navigate issues in air travel.
“The Air Consumer Protection Department of the NCAA is tasked with protecting both passengers and airlines as stakeholders,” Achimugu stated. “Our duty is to educate and empower passengers so they know their rights, and we are here to mediate and resolve disputes.”
Achimugu assured the public that disruptions are unlikely to occur during the festive season due to the recent fleet expansion. He pointed out that Nigerian airlines such as Ibom Air, Air Peace, and United Nigeria have received additional aircraft, ramping up the country’s fleet capacity and significantly reducing the likelihood of delays and cancellations.
NCAA’s Ongoing Commitment to Passenger Rights
Notably, Achimugu highlighted that Nigeria has made significant strides in consumer protection within the aviation sector. He praised the NCAA for ensuring that passengers receive 100% refunds without additional charges, a measure that sets Nigeria apart as one of the few countries where airlines are legally required to comply with such regulations.
Looking ahead
The NCAA plans to continue its efforts to educate and protect both passengers and airlines. Achimugu confirmed that these educational campaigns will extend well into 2025, ensuring that travelers are always aware of their rights and the proper channels for seeking assistance.
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