The acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najomo, has expressed concern over the growing number of flight cancellations in the country, revealing that 190 flights were cancelled over a two-month period.

Speaking at the Airlines-NCAA engagement event on Friday, Najomo highlighted the challenges faced by airlines and passengers due to frequent flight disruptions.

According to data shared by the NCAA, 5,291 flights were operated in September 2024, with 2,434 delays and 79 cancellations recorded.

In October 2024, the number of flights increased to 5,513, but delays rose to 2,791, and cancellations surged to 111.

Najomo acknowledged that some delays and cancellations are unavoidable, citing operational, technical, and weather-related issues, especially during the harmattan season.

However, he stressed the importance of proper management of these disruptions to protect passengers’ rights.

“Delays and cancellations are sometimes inevitable, but poor management of these disruptions is not,” he stated.

“Airlines must handle such situations with professionalism and prioritize passengers’ rights, particularly during challenging weather conditions that impact flight operations.”

He reminded airlines of their obligations under the Nigeria Civil Aviation (Consumer Protection) Regulations, 2023.

“These regulations are not optional; they are mandatory obligations,” Najomo emphasized, urging operators to comply fully with the rules regarding passenger rights during disruptions.