NCAA Stands Firm: No Waivers for Airlines, but Penalty Reductions Possible

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has refused to grant waivers to airlines penalized for regulatory infractions, reinforcing its commitment to upholding industry standards and protecting passengers.

Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, stated that despite repeated appeals from airlines seeking leniency, the authority remains steadfast in enforcing penalties.

“Most of the airlines have been asking for waivers, which we have refused,” Achimugu said. “But Royal Air Maroc came forward with a pledge to improve their services to Nigerians.”

The NCAA, however, has indicated that while it will not completely waive fines, it may consider reducing penalties for airlines that take concrete steps to resolve passenger complaints.

“We are willing to review the exact figures, especially in cases where issues have been addressed,” Achimugu explained. “These sanctions are not just about punishment; they are meant to push airlines to improve their services for Nigerian travelers.”

The regulatory body has made its stance clear—there will be no outright pardons, but airlines demonstrating full compliance and resolving all grievances may see reductions in their fines.

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“We have refused an outright waiver, but we are willing to reduce some of the figures, provided they can prove that every single case on the sanctions list has been resolved,” Achimugu reiterated.

In December 2024, the NCAA sanctioned several airlines, including Air Peace and Ethiopian Airlines, for violating aviation regulations. And in a recent crackdown, the authority warned that more airlines could face penalties if they continue to flout consumer protection rules.