Several airlines penalized by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) have reached out to the regulatory body, requesting a meeting to present evidence that they have addressed the issues that led to their sanctions.
The NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, confirmed this development. He explained that affected airlines have the option to either pay the fines or appeal the decision. “Some airlines have written to us, saying they have resolved the issues and want to meet to provide proof. We are allowing the process to unfold,” he stated.
Achimugu clarified that immediate payment is not expected, as the airlines only received their sanction letters on Friday. “Those who will pay will do so and those who appeal will have their cases reviewed,” he added.
Earlier, the NCAA had warned airlines against exceeding the refund timelines outlined in Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. This led to enforcement actions against Royal Air Maroc, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Peace, Arik Air and Aero Contractors, following a rise in passenger complaints.
As part of the sanctions, the NCAA announced plans to fine Royal Air Maroc up to ₦300 million for alleged unprofessional conduct and regulatory violations. The agency also hinted at imposing what could be the largest penalty in Nigeria’s aviation history against the airline.