NCAA prepares to sanction Air Peace, others over delayed refund  

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has issued a formal warning to Air Peace, directing immediate refund of a passenger whose flight was cancelled in October 2024, or face sanction.

As gathered by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the warning is in accordance with regulatory requirements.

The passenger, identified as Falayi Temitope, while lamenting on his X formerly Twitter page, said he had formally requested a refund on October 16, which Air Peace had refused to do.

In one of Temitope’s posts, he wrote “my cancelled flight refund with @flyairpeace is overdue, with three emails already sent.”

“This is day 36 and I have not been refunded by @flyairpeace for my cancelled flight.

“I am disappointed by the continued lack of resolution.”

“Despite established policies, inconsistencies in enforcement undermine trust and necessitate reform.”

Tope in another post wrote “Pursuant to Part 19 of @flyairpeace’s regulations, reimbursement is due within 14 days of full payment by electronic bank transfer.

“Today makes it day 53.”

Reaction of NCAA

Reacting, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu, disclosed that he had closely followed the case, awaiting the airline’s remedial measures.

Achimugu emphasized the regulatory framework for timely refunds, citing Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations

“Refunds for cash purchases are payable immediately in cash.”

“Electronic transactions require refunds within 14 calendar days.”

“@FlyAirPeace is hereby directed to provide immediate refund to the passenger, exceeding the 14-day timeframe,” the director said.

According to Achimugu, any other airline that fails to meet refund deadlines will face sanction.

“It is time for airlines to demonstrate loyalty and gratitude to the NCAA.”

“Our Chief Personnel Officers (CPOs) have been explicitly instructed to refrain from proactive pursuit of regulatory compliance.

“Instead it was instructed to impose stringent sanctions for non-compliance.”

“Not a single airline will deny the fact that they have been given a listening ear.

“Sincere apologies to passengers awaiting delayed refunds. It is not ideal.

“I am personally driving a regulatory review to reduce the refund timeframe to seven days.”

“Nigerian passengers are entitled to exceptional service.”

our department’s efforts ensure timely and fair refunds.”

“Nigerian passengers deserve world-class service.”

“My department’s proactive measures have ensured airlines provide full refunds, 25% rebates, and 50% rebates,” the director said.

Know about NCAA

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is the premier regulatory body for aviation in Nigeria, mandated by the Civil Aviation Act 2022.

The NCAA gained autonomy with the enactment of the Civil Aviation Act 2022 by the National Assembly and subsequent assent by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Act grants NCAA autonomy to regulate aviation safety, free from political influence, while also overseeing airports, airspace, meteorological services and economic regulations.

Vision of NCAA

NCAA’s vision is to become a global leader in civil aviation regulation, driven by a mission to deliver efficient, effective and technologically advanced aviation safety and economic services.

Regulatory Framework

The NCAA’s regulatory framework comprises inspection, operation, certification, licensing, monitoring, sanction and enforcement to guarantee aviation safety and economic standards.

Currently, Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure comprises 31 airports, supported by 39 Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders and 28 international airlines.

As of April 2024, Nigeria’s aviation industry boasts 11,588 licensed professionals, comprising pilots, maintenance engineers, dispatchers, air traffic controllers, cabin crew and station operators.

The country’s airports now boast modern facilities, ensuring enhanced safety and comfort for passengers.

The aviation industry has witnessed significant investments, with airlines introducing cutting-edge aircraft.

The investments include Boeing 737-700, CRJ 400/900, Dash 8-400Q, Business Jets, B777, Dreamliner B787, Boeing 747-400 and Embraer Regional Jets.

Mission of NCAA

NCAA prioritizes safety, economic regulation and innovation, benefiting stakeholders and contributing to national economic development.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook