Nigerian Regulator Delays Airline Sanctions to Avoid Stranding Holiday Passengers

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a firm warning to airlines. They must comply with NCAA consumer protection regulations or face sanctions after the yuletide season. Enforcement is being delayed to avoid stranding passengers during peak holiday travel. This pragmatic approach prioritizes the safety and movement of the flying public.

Pragmatic Enforcement and Sanctions

Mr. Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, confirmed the regulator's stance. He noted that enforcement of airline passenger rights enforcement has strengthened significantly over the last two years. The NCAA has achieved the highest volume of refunds and compensations in Nigerian civil aviation history.

No fewer than seven airlines have been sanctioned for airline consumer protection violations in 2025. These include both domestic and international carriers. The sanctioned airlines are Air Peace, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Royal Air Maroc, and Qatar Airways. For instance, Qatar Airways was fined ₦5 million for consumer protection infractions.

Achimugu explained the reason for tempering the sanctions after yuletide season. If the regulator were to impose tough penalties now, several airlines could be grounded. This action would result in chaos and leave many holidaying passengers stranded. The NCAA is balancing regulation with the need to maintain a functional domestic Nigerian aviation market capacity.

Passenger Rights and Compensation

The NCAA enforces Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which governs consumer protection. Nigeria is one of the few countries globally where refunds are often paid in full. Domestic airlines paid out over ₦1 billion in passenger refunds between May and July 2025 alone.

Key passenger rights under the regulations include:

• A passenger is entitled to a full refund option if a flight delay lasts up to two hours.
• For domestic delays exceeding two hours, passengers must receive refreshments and communication access.
• If a flight is delayed over three hours, rerouting or reimbursement must be offered.
• Refunds for cancelled or delayed flights must be immediate for cash payments.
• Refunds via bank transfer must be completed within 14 days.

Globally, the rules are similar, though disruptions due to force majeure are generally exempt. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides a framework for these global standards. The NCAA notes that many disruptions are not the airline's fault. They often face blame for systemic issues in the operating environment.

Future Capacity and Industry Outlook

The long-term solution for the industry involves building airline capacity. A significant opportunity is expected in 2026. The industry anticipates better dry lease aircraft access 2026. Dry leasing is a more cost-effective option than the prevalent wet-lease model.

It was reported that nine additional dry-leased aircraft are expected by February 2026. This move, supported by the government, signals renewed confidence in the Nigerian aviation ecosystem. Increased access to aircraft from manufacturers like Airbus will help stabilize flight schedules. This will ultimately reduce the frequency of delays and cancellations. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.