The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has launched a fresh campaign to curb rising cases of unruly passenger behaviour in the country’s aviation sector.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, identified excessive alcohol consumption as a leading cause of disruptive incidents both onboard flights and within airport terminals.
In a statement shared on his X handle, Achimugu noted that while regulations and facilities are already in place, aviation systems are often tested in moments of crisis.
He stressed that the unpredictable nature of human behaviour makes it necessary for regulators and operators to adopt proactive strategies rather than relying solely on reactive measures.
According to the Authority, most cases of misconduct are triggered by alcohol abuse, flight delays, and inadequate communication.
This, it said, underscores the need for preventive steps aimed at awareness and deterrence before incidents occur.
The new campaign seeks to raise passenger awareness and promote stronger collaboration among aviation stakeholders.
Key measures outlined include enhanced data collection, tougher enforcement of existing rules, improved crew training, and closer coordination with agencies such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Aviation Security.
Airlines have also been urged to adopt stricter sanctions against offenders, including the possible blacklisting of repeat violators, amid concerns that public sensitisation alone has not been sufficient to deter bad behaviour.
The NCAA emphasised that its renewed drive aligns with global efforts by regulators to tackle the surge in disruptive passenger cases. With stronger education, technology adoption, and firmer enforcement, the Authority said Nigeria can ensure a safer and more orderly travel environment.
“Accurate data and the will to act on it will help us address problems at the source without crippling the system.
“But this demands genuine commitment from all stakeholders, not mere lip service,” Achimugu stated.
The Authority reaffirmed that the initiative reflects its determination to protect both passengers and aviation personnel while guaranteeing a more secure and peaceful air travel experience.
