The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said on Friday airlines operating in the country cancelled 190 local flights in two months.

The Acting Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, disclosed this at an interactive session with airlines Chief Executive Officers in Lagos.

He added that 5,225 flights were delayed during the period.

The NCAA DG expressed concern over the increasing rate of flight cancellations and delays in the country.

Najomo revealed that 2,434 out of 5,291 flights were delayed and 79 were cancelled in September.

He said 2,791 flights were delayed and 111 were cancelled out of 5,513 flights in October.

The NCAA boss lamented that he had been inundated with calls from high-ranking officials, including the Senate President and called for action on the matter.

He said: “When delays and cancellations occur, they disrupt plans, cause financial losses, and undermine confidence in the industry.”

READ ALSO: NCAA sanctions five airlines over regulatory breaches

Najomo stressed the importance of adherence to the Nigeria Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection) Regulations, 2023, which mandate airlines to inform passengers of disruptions, and provide accommodations, refreshments, and alternative travel options.

He also urged airlines to professionally manage delays and cancellations, citing poor handling as a critical issue.

Additionally, he warned passengers against unruly behaviour, including damaging airline property or attacking employees.

Key stakeholders in the aviation industry, including the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and representatives from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) attended the meeting to discuss solutions to the growing challenges in the sector.

By: Babajide Okeowo

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