Reps Demand Sanctions on Airlines Over Persistent Flight Delays

Reps Demand Sanctions on Airlines Over Persistent Flight Delays

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Aviation to enforce punitive measures against airlines over the increasing cases of flight delays across the country.

Key Resolutions:
The Ministry of Aviation must enforce strict compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Act 2022 and Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations (CARS 2023).
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) must ensure airlines adhere to consumer protection laws to safeguard passengers’ rights.
An investigation into airlines’ non-compliance with regulations on flight delays and baggage mishandling will be conducted.
Scale of the Problem

According to Victor Obuzor, Chairman of the House Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters, data from the 2024 Mid-Year Air Passenger Traffic Report shows alarming rates of flight delays:

Air Peace: 5,350 delays in 11,111 flights
Aero Contractors: 740 delays in 1,992 flights
Arik Air: 1,378 delays in 2,331 flights
Dana Air: 999 delays in 1,446 flights
United Nigeria: 2,439 delays in 3,912 flights
Ibom Air, Green Africa, Max Air, Azman Air, Rano Air, and Overland Airways also recorded high delay rates.

Obuzor lamented that despite clear legal provisions for airline liability, delays persist, causing significant economic losses to individuals and businesses.

Passenger Rights and Airline Obligations
Domestic flights: Airlines must inform passengers at least 12 hours before departure if there is a major schedule change.
International flights: Airlines must provide a 14-day notice for schedule changes and offer passengers a refund or re-routing.
Cancellations: Passengers must receive full reimbursement or re-routing options.
Compensation: Domestic flight passengers are entitled to 25% compensation of their ticket fare if informed of a cancellation less than 24 hours before departure.

The House insists that strict enforcement is necessary to hold airlines accountable and improve the efficiency of Nigeria’s aviation sector.