ABUJA — Nigeria’s aviation regulator has fined Saudi Airlines six million naira (£3,100) for failing to comply with consumer protection regulations following a series of service disruptions at the country’s capital airport.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) stated that the financial penalty was necessary to enforce compliance with national civil aviation rules after the international carrier failed to resolve multiple pending passenger complaints despite being granted an extended grace period.
The aviation watchdog revealed that it had previously stepped in to support Saudi Airlines in managing operational crises and averting public unrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja a few months ago.
Enforcing passenger rights
According to the regulator, the sanction was issued under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which strictly governs consumer protection, flight delays, cancellations, and the fair treatment of travellers.
Aviation officials stated that while the government remains committed to supporting international carriers to operate at optimal capacity within Nigeria, airlines must prioritise the welfare and dignity of their customers.
“Paying passengers travelling to and from Nigeria need to feel protected and respected by the carrier,” the NCAA said in a statement, adding that it expects an exponential improvement in the airline’s local operations moving forward.
Add Comment