NCAA PLEDGES TO ENHANCE AIRLINE-PASSENGER RELATION
By Victory Ugonwenyi
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhance a robust relationship between operators and air travellers in the country.
The pledge was made by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu during the recent Consumer Protection Stakeholders’ Consultative Meeting, held at the NCAA Lagos Regional Office Annex in Lagos.
Mr. Achimugu, while delivering his opening speech at the parley, emphasized that air passengers are the backbone of the industry and as such, deserve to be well treated. He promised that his Directorate will work unrelentingly with airlines and other stakeholders to alleviate the discomfort faced by passengers.
During the engagement which had some local airlines, air passengers and the media in attendance, the director outlined a number of challenges facing air travel in Nigeria such as flight disruptions, delays and cancellations, loss of baggage, the process of getting refunds and ill-treatment meted out to airlines' staff in the event of flight delays or outright cancellations. He, therefore, tasked stakeholders to focus on resolving issues rather than dwelling on the blame game.
The Director further assured that the NCAA will work to improve consumer protection and ensure that airlines comply with extant regulations. He also urged operators to prioritize the Federal Government's policy as it relates to the ‘ease of doing business’ as this will go a long way in assisting them improve their services to passengers.
The Consumer Protection director urged both operators and air travellers to accord respect and dignity to staff of the NCAA at the nation’s airports, especially during the process of resolution of complaints. According to him, any attack or unruly behaviour towards NCAA Consumer Protection Officers in the line of duty will not be taken lightly.