The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a strong warning to international airlines against the unjust deportation of Nigerian passengers mid-journey, condemning the practice as unacceptable and inhumane.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, stressed the regulatorโs position in an official communiquรฉ released on Thursday.
He emphasised that such egregious conduct has not only inflicted severe distres upon affected travellers but has also tarnished the credibility of Nigeriaโs aviation sector.
โThese actions, which involve the refusal of boarding or denial of entry at intermediate or transit stops due to visa and travel restrictions, are completely unacceptable,โ he said.
The NCAA stressed that airlines are responsible for informing passengers of any potential obstacles to their entry before their journey begins.
โPassengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or returned to Nigeria only upon arrival at transit stops,โ Achimugu added.
Referring to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (Part 19.21.1.1), the NCAA reiterated that airlines and their agents are obligated to inform travelers of any potential entry restrictions before departure.
โAirlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up-to-date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing tickets or allowing boarding,โ he added.
He stated that in light of these issues, the NCAA has announced immediate enforcement measures.
โEffective immediately, any airline found engaging in such practices will face regulatory action, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other penalties deemed appropriate,โ Achimugu warned.
โThe NCAA expects the cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the wellbeing of Nigerian passengers,โ he noted.
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