The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has fined Saudi Airlines ₦6 million. They did this for what they call violations related to consumer protection.
Michael Achimugu, who is the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, shared this news on Friday.
Mr Achimugu explained that the fine was necessary because the airline did not fix many consumer issues. This happened even after the NCAA tried to help the airline and gave them extra time to comply.
He mentioned that the NCAA had stepped in before to help the airline deal with a situation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja a few months ago. That situation could have turned violent.
The NCAA also allowed Saudi Airlines more time to settle complaints and meet the rules set by the regulator. But the airline did not fulfill its duties.
“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has sanctioned Saudi Airlines to the tune of ₦6 million for consumer protection-related infractions,” Mr Achimugu said.
He added that this action was taken to ensure the airline follows Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023. This part talks about the rights of air passengers and what airlines must do in Nigeria.
The NCAA hopes that this fine will push the airline to do better in Nigeria and take better care of its passengers.
Mr Achimugu stressed that all passengers flying to and from Nigeria should be treated fairly and with respect by every airline operating in the country.
He also said that while the NCAA will keep supporting Saudi Airlines and other airlines to run smoothly, they will take action to protect consumers when necessary.
As of now, Saudi Airlines has not responded to the NCAA’s fine.
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