Nigeria’s Aviation Authority cracks down on Saudi airlines with ₦6M fine

By Abdul Aziz, Abuja

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has imposed a ₦6 million fine on Saudi Airlines for breaching consumer protection regulations, reinforcing the country’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of airline passengers.

The sanction was announced by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, who said the penalty followed the airline’s failure to address several consumer complaints despite repeated interventions by the aviation regulator.

According to the NCAA, Saudi Airlines was given ample time to resolve outstanding passenger-related issues and comply with regulatory directives, but failed to meet its obligations.

Achimugu disclosed that the authority had previously stepped in to help the airline manage a tense situation involving passengers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, an intervention that reportedly prevented the incident from escalating into violence. Even after that support, the airline was granted an extended period to settle pending complaints and implement the regulator’s determinations, but it failed to do so.

“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has sanctioned Saudi Airlines to the tune of ₦6 million for consumer protection-related infractions,” Achimugu stated.

He explained that the enforcement action was taken under Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023, which sets out the rights of passengers and the responsibilities of airlines operating within Nigeria.

The NCAA said the sanction is intended not only to enforce compliance with aviation regulations but also to ensure that airlines treat passengers fairly and respond promptly to consumer complaints.

The regulator expressed hope that the penalty would encourage Saudi Airlines to improve its operations in Nigeria and strengthen its commitment to customer service.

Achimugu emphasized that while the NCAA remains committed to supporting both domestic and international airlines in maintaining efficient operations, it will not hesitate to apply regulatory sanctions against carriers that disregard passenger rights or fail to comply with established aviation standards.

The latest enforcement action underscores the NCAA’s growing resolve to hold airlines accountable and ensure that passengers travelling to and from Nigeria receive the level of service and protection guaranteed under the country’s aviation laws.