Nigerian govt discloses cancellation of 190 domestic flights in 2 months

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concern over the alarming rate of flight delays and cancellations, revealing that 190 domestic flights were cancelled within two months. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on Friday, Acting Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, disclosed that September 2024 saw 2,434 delays and 79 cancellations out of 5,291 flights. October was worse, with 2,791 delays and 111 cancellations from 5,513 flights. “The Senate President called me asking what we are doing about these disruptions,” Najomo revealed, highlighting mounting pressure from the Presidency, National Assembly, and Aviation Ministry. He stressed that while he understands the airlines’ operational challenges, regulatory lapses cannot continue unchecked. The meeting, themed ‘Finding Lasting Solutions to Flight Disruptions,’ was attended by airline CEOs, including Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema, and key aviation stakeholders such as FAAN and NAMA representatives. Najomo urged airlines to adhere to the Nigeria Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection) Regulations, 2023, emphasising professionalism in managing delays. “Poor management of delays is the issue with operators,” he said, warning against neglecting passenger rights. He also condemned unruly passenger behaviour, stating, “Destroying airline property or attacking employees over delays will not be tolerated.” The NCAA’s call for accountability comes as flight disruptions threaten the festive travel season, with stakeholders tasked to find immediate solutions.