The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has expressed concern over the growing number of unruly passenger incidents at the nation’s airports, warning that such conduct will no longer be tolerated.
In a statement signed by Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN described the behaviour as “entirely unacceptable within the framework of civil aviation,” urging all passengers to familiarise themselves with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities as well as the FAAN Bye Laws.
The Authority stated that it will henceforth apply the full range of sanctions provided for in the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annexe 17, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (particularly Part 17), and the FAAN Bye Laws, against any disruptive or threatening conduct within airport premises.
“Passengers are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities, and Airlines’ Obligations as published by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Bye Laws.
“Moving forward, the Authority will not hesitate to implement relevant sanctions as stipulated in ICAO Annex 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations especially Part 17 and FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour within airport premises,”
FAAN noted that it is also reviewing its procedures for restraining and prosecuting offenders by the Airport Approved Security Programme and other applicable laws.
Referencing the recent incident involving a female passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight, FAAN confirmed that while security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 (MM2) initially handled the matter, its Aviation Security (AVSEC) team later took the suspect into custody and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for investigation and prosecution.
The Authority urged all intending passengers to maintain civility and comply with established airport and airline regulations, stressing that the safety, security, and comfort of airport users remain a top priority.
“Acts of inappropriate behaviour will be met with the full weight of applicable laws and protocols,” the statement warned.
