The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has taken a decisive step to strengthen passenger rights in the country’s aviation sector. The regulatory body has introduced stringent guidelines that require airlines to compensate passengers for lost luggage and flight disruptions.
In a press conference held in Abuja, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, outlined the new compensation scheme. Passengers who experience lost luggage on domestic flights will be entitled to a compensation of N10,000, while those on international flights will receive $170.
Lost Luggage Compensation: A New Standard
Achimugu clarified the timelines for locating lost luggage. Airlines are expected to find missing bags within seven days for domestic flights and 21 days for international flights. If the luggage remains unfound after these periods, it is officially declared lost, and the compensation process begins.
Flight Disruptions and Refunds
The NCAA has also addressed the issue of flight cancellations and significant delays. Passengers affected by such disruptions are entitled to prompt refunds. For cash payments, refunds must be issued immediately. However, for refunds processed through bank transfers or other electronic means, airlines have a 14-day window to return the funds to passengers.
Empowering Passengers: Knowing Your Rights
Horatius Egua, NCAA’s Director of Special Duties, emphasized the importance of passenger awareness. He acknowledged that many passengers are unaware of their rights, leading to under-enforcement and exploitation. To address this, the NCAA is implementing various initiatives, including passenger education programs, regulatory improvements, and infrastructure development.
Ifueko Abdulmalik, Senior Special Adviser to the NCAA Acting Director General, detailed the obligations of airlines to ensure passenger satisfaction and safety. Airlines are required to:
Clearly communicate terms and conditions
Maintain precise flight schedules
Provide efficient baggage handling
Offer full transparency regarding flight schedules, fares, baggage allowances, and compensations
Common Passenger Concerns and Rights
Abdulmalik highlighted that common passenger concerns include flight delays and cancellations, baggage loss and damage, overbooking and denied boarding, and refund and compensation disputes. She urged passengers to familiarize themselves with their rights, which include:
The right to know flight schedules, fares, and baggage allowances
The right to compensation for flight delays
The right to refunds for unused tickets within seven days
The right to baggage protection
A Brighter Future for Nigerian Aviation
If You Ask Me: A Step Towards Stronger Consumer Protection
The NCAA’s stricter regulations on airline liability for lost luggage represent a significant step towards strengthening consumer protection in Nigeria’s aviation sector. By enforcing these rules and educating passengers about their rights, the NCAA aims to empower travelers and ensure a more positive and hassle-free flying experience.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for both airlines and passengers to stay informed about their rights and obligations. By working together, we can strive for a more transparent, efficient, and passenger-friendly aviation sector in Nigeria.
