NCAA Bars Pilots from Flying with Unruly Passengers

By Diafa Doubra,

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has introduced a new safety directive prohibiting pilots from taking off when unruly passengers are on board.

The agency explained that the measure was necessary to protect crew, passengers, and aircraft from potential risks associated with disruptive behavior during flights. According to NCAA Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, airlines are now mandated to offload such passengers before departure, regardless of their status or ticket class.

He noted that unruly behaviour including verbal abuse, refusal to follow safety instructions, and physical assault has become a growing concern in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Najomo stressed that ignoring these incidents could endanger flight safety and compromise international aviation standards.

Airlines have been urged to train their staff on handling difficult situations and to report offenders for possible prosecution. The NCAA assured that it will collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders face strict consequences.

Aviation experts have commended the move, saying it aligns Nigeria with global best practices and will boost confidence in the country’s air transport system.