The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reported that Aero Contractors refunded over N257 million to passengers affected by flight delays, cancellations, and baggage issues between January and August 2025.
This figure represents a significant 137 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024, when the airline refunded N108 million. The data highlights a major rise in the airline’s compliance with consumer protection regulations.
In an official statement, the NCAA commended the airline’s commitment to passenger rights, noting that the refunds demonstrate improved adherence to Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. The authority also confirmed that Aero Contractors spent over N6 million on hotel accommodations for stranded passengers from January to July 2025.
The statement provided detailed figures: “Total refund paid January – August 2025 – N257,195,724.39, compared to N108,308,037.40 over the same period in 2024 and N32,766,652.30 in 2023.”
Regarding hotel costs, the NCAA added: “For hotel accommodation, the total amount reported from January to July 2025 is N6,083,229. (verified records with Cocos Hotel; Grand Cubana Hotel, Abuja; NOCY Castle Hotel; Kim Royal Hotel; JC42 Apartment (Asaba), and Mayor & Diplomat Hotel, Lagos).”
The NCAA acknowledged the challenging operating environment for airlines but reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of passengers and other stakeholders.
“The figures show remarkable improvement in compliance with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023,” the authority stated.
While the surge in refunds may indicate more frequent flight disruptions, it also reflects stricter enforcement of passenger compensation rules and greater awareness among travellers of their rights. The NCAA’s public reporting of these figures is part of a broader effort to promote transparency and accountability in the aviation sector.
Aero Contractors has not yet commented on whether the increase in refunds is due to more operational issues or better passenger complaint handling. However, the NCAA’s acknowledgment suggests the airline is now more responsive to customer claims.
The aviation industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including fuel shortages, currency volatility, and infrastructure constraints, all contributing to flight delays and cancellations. The NCAA’s data shows that Aero Contractors is fulfilling its financial obligations to affected passengers despite these difficulties.
The report may encourage other airlines to improve their customer service and compliance with refund policies to avoid regulatory sanctions or reputational damage.
Passenger rights advocacy groups have often criticised Nigerian airlines for poor handling of compensation claims. The latest NCAA report on Aero Contractors could set a new standard for industry compliance and consumer protection.
The authority continues to monitor all domestic airlines to ensure they comply with regulations designed to safeguard passenger interests and maintain trust in the aviation sector.
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