NCAA Demands Welfare, Refunds For Air Tanzania’s Stranded Passengers

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has intervened following significant flight disruptions by Air Tanzania, which left numerous passengers stranded in both Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and Lagos, Nigeria. The NCAA's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, publicly called on Air Tanzania to provide immediate welfare and refund packages, emphasizing the airline's obligations under Nigerian aviation regulations.

The NCAA's stance came after reports from Nigerian passengers facing prolonged delays in Dar es Salaam, with one individual missing a critical visa interview. Citing Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, the Nigerian regulator mandated that passengers affected by long delays are entitled to hotel accommodation, meals, and regular updates. Furthermore, the NCAA advised Air Tanzania to offer full refunds or rebook passengers on alternative carriers if it could not operate its scheduled flights over the weekend.

While acknowledging that technical faults can occur and safety remains paramount, the NCAA stressed the importance of treating affected passengers with due courtesy and providing their rightful entitlements. The regulatory body confirmed it was in direct contact with travelers in both locations, ensuring that similar care was extended to those stranded in Lagos awaiting outbound service. Following the NCAA's intervention, Air Tanzania subsequently provided hotel accommodation and meals to the affected passengers, with assurances of onward travel. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority continues to monitor the situation closely until all passengers reach their destinations safely.