NCAA Slams Saudi Airlines with ₦6 Million Fine Over Consumer Rights Violations

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has imposed a ₦6 million sanction on Saudi Airlines over consumer protection-related infractions, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the rights of air passengers in Nigeria.

The sanction was disclosed on Friday by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Chris Achimugu, in a statement shared on his official X account.

According to Achimugu, the regulatory action followed months of engagement between the Authority and the airline, including efforts by the NCAA to prevent a breakdown of order at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and the granting of additional time for the carrier to address outstanding consumer complaints and regulatory determinations.

He explained that despite the support and opportunities provided to the airline to resolve the issues, the Authority deemed it necessary to enforce compliance with existing aviation regulations.

“This sanction is necessary to ensure compliance with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023,” the statement noted.

The NCAA further expressed hope that the penalty would encourage Saudi Airlines to significantly improve its operations in Nigeria and enhance the quality of service offered to passengers.

According to the Authority, Nigerian travellers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and must be assured that their rights are protected when using airline services.

“Paying passengers travelling to and from Nigeria need to feel protected and respected by the carrier,” Achimugu stated.

Despite the sanction, the NCAA reiterated its commitment to supporting Saudi Airlines and other international carriers operating in the country to achieve optimal operational standards while complying with consumer protection regulations.

The Authority has in recent years intensified enforcement of consumer protection rules, insisting that airlines operating in the country must adhere strictly to established standards regarding passenger welfare, service delivery and dispute resolution.