By Chidi Ugwu
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has condemned the practice of airlines selling tickets to passengers, only to deny them boarding or deport them back to Nigeria due to visa or travel restrictions.
In a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, the Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, on Thursday, the NCAA declared that the development has caused significant distress to passengers and tarnished the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria .
The NCAA emphasized that airlines are responsible for informing passengers about potential barriers to their admissibility at their destination before they commence their travel. Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or returned to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate/transit stops.
To address this issue, the NCAA has warned that it will suspend, fine, and take other regulatory actions against international airlines that engage in such practices.
This is in line with the provisions of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, which requires airlines to ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions in advance of their departure .
“The NCAA finds such practices completely unacceptable. It is the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destination before they commence their travel. Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or returned to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate/transit stops.
“In line with the provisions of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, all airlines and their agents shall ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restrictions in advance of their departure.
“Airlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up-to-date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing a ticket and proceeding to board them.
“In light of this, the NCAA informs all international airlines operating in Nigeria that the Authority will no longer tolerate these occurrences.
“The NCAA expects the cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the well-being of Nigerian passengers” reads the statement in part.
