(DDM) – United Nigeria Airlines and Max Air recorded the highest proportions of flight cancellations among domestic carriers in the third quarter of 2025, according to data released by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The findings were contained in the NCAA’s Q3 2025 flight delay and cancellation performance report, which compared airline operations between July and September 2025 with the same period in 2024.
According to the report, United Nigeria Airlines recorded a flight cancellation rate of 0.63 per cent during the third quarter of 2025.
This figure represents a slight improvement when compared to the airline’s 0.70 per cent cancellation rate recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.
Despite the marginal improvement, United Nigeria Airlines still topped the list of domestic carriers with the highest proportion of cancelled flights during the review period.
The NCAA report further showed that Max Air followed closely with a cancellation rate of 0.42 per cent between July and September 2025.
This also marked an improvement from the airline’s 0.60 per cent cancellation rate recorded in the third quarter of 2024.
The aviation regulator noted that while both airlines showed progress year-on-year, their cancellation figures remained higher than those of other domestic operators.
The NCAA explained that the quarterly report is part of its ongoing efforts to monitor airline performance and protect passenger rights.
It stated that flight cancellations, alongside delays, remain a major concern for air travellers across Nigeria.
The authority said airlines are expected to improve operational efficiency, aircraft availability, and scheduling reliability.
The NCAA stressed that persistent cancellations negatively affect passenger confidence in the domestic aviation sector.
Industry analysts attributed flight cancellations to factors such as aircraft maintenance issues, operational constraints, and weather-related disruptions.
They noted that airlines operating smaller fleets are often more vulnerable to cancellations when technical faults occur.
The report also compared overall industry performance, highlighting gradual improvements in some carriers’ operational consistency.
The NCAA reiterated that airlines are required to promptly inform passengers of cancellations and provide appropriate care in line with aviation regulations.
It warned that repeated violations of passenger protection rules could attract sanctions.
Aviation experts said transparent publication of performance data helps passengers make informed travel choices.
They added that competition among airlines could drive better service delivery if performance rankings are closely monitored.
The NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight of domestic airlines.
It urged carriers to invest in fleet maintenance, crew training, and contingency planning to reduce cancellations.
Passengers have continued to express concerns over disruptions, especially during peak travel periods.
The regulator encouraged affected passengers to report complaints through official NCAA channels.
The Q3 2025 report forms part of the NCAA’s broader strategy to enhance safety, reliability, and accountability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.