The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority is implementing stricter penalties for airlines that delay passengers’ luggage.
Foreign airlines will face a fine of $170 per delayed bag, while local airlines will be fined ₦10,000.
In October, the NCAA clarified that passengers are entitled to claim up to $1,000 for missing luggage on domestic flights and 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (approximately $1,700) for international flights.
This policy aims to safeguard passengers’ rights and ensure accountability from airlines.
This was disclosed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, during a roadshow at Lagos airport on Monday, aimed at sensitizing yuletide travelers.
Achimugu assured passengers that the agency would strictly enforce sanctions against airlines that violate regulations, including those delaying luggage.
He regretted that for a very long time, most of the air travellers were unaware of their rights, which made the airlines continue to violate them.
He explained that with the roadshow, the travelling public would be more aware of their rights in the NCAA acts and the appropriate quarters to complain to.
“For way too long, Nigerians have been claiming not to know about the existence and the duties of the NCAA. Our duty, which is what we owe Nigerians, is to bring awareness to the industry. The passengers need to become more aware of their rights so that airlines will not continue to cheat them.
“The little things about the regulations that the passengers need to know, for instance, if you arrive at an airport and your luggage didn’t arrive with you, most passengers do not know that they have a right to demand compensation from the airlines.
“If it is a domestic flight, you can walk to the airline’s counter to demand for your N10,000 for not bringing your bag with you. For international flights, it is $170. A lot of passengers do not know this thing, but today, we are bringing an end to that circle of ignorance. We are bringing the regulations to Nigerians in an exciting manner,” Achimugu said.
He highlighted the NCAA’s newly launched website during the Lagos roadshow, emphasizing its role in making it easier for passengers to report issues.
He noted that the platform has increased passenger awareness and complaints, pushing airlines to improve their services.
The NCAA’s spokesperson also announced that similar roadshows and stakeholders’ summits would take place at Abuja and Port Harcourt airports.
