•As passengers receive 25% compensation
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has come to the defense of Ibom Air, following the cancellation of a scheduled flight on Friday, citing safety concerns as the reason.
The airline had initially rescheduled the flight from 3:30 pm to 5:20 pm, but later canceled it due to a technical issue with the operating aircraft that had a knock-on effect on subsequent routes.
According to Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, the cancellation was necessary because the delay would have caused the aircraft to arrive at Uyo airport after sunset, which could have posed a safety risk.
“The airline is ready to fly, but that delay means that Uyo airport, which is a sunset airport, would be closed by the time they arrive. As a result, it is safer to cancel the flight and reschedule for tomorrow,” Achimugu explained.
The NCAA official assured that Ibom Air had taken steps to care for affected passengers, with some provided hotel accommodation and all set to receive emails with an offer of 25% compensation.
“Flight disruptions happen. Where the airline would be sanctioned is if they fail to comply with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations, per care for the passengers. In this case, that care is being provided,” Achimugu added.
The NCAA emphasized that safety is paramount in the aviation industry, and that the authority prioritizes the safety of lives over the need to fly.
“We prefer to ensure the safety of lives and delay some flights, than to put lives at risk because people need to fly. Only the living would fly tomorrow,” Achimugu said.
The director also defended Ibom Air’s record, noting that it is one of the most punctual airlines in the industry. He apologized to all affected passengers and announced that more aircraft are expected to be deployed into Nigeria’s aviation sector soon.
