The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced plans to take legal action against Kenya Airways for violating its operational regulations.
The NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, disclosed this development on Saturday while providing updates on various infractions committed by Kenya Airways against Nigerian passengers, including the case of Gloria Omisore.
According to Achimugu, the airline mishandled Omisore’s complaint and further claimed ignorance of the NCAA’s regulations. He criticized the airline’s stance, questioning how it could operate in Nigeria without adhering to the country’s aviation rules.
“The Kenya Airways team claimed ignorance of the NCAA Regulations. We are sending them a copy of it. But, how can you operate in a foreign country with no recourse to the relevant regulations? How is this different from those who claimed that Omisore should have known the travel documents she needed for her trip?” Achimugu queried.
To address this issue, the NCAA plans to organize a retreat for all airlines operating in Nigeria to familiarize themselves with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which outlines consumer protection guidelines.
“One would expect that knowledge of all necessary regulations is essential,” he added.
Achimugu further expressed the NCAA’s displeasure over Kenya Airways’ handling of multiple unresolved cases, including failure to process refunds, non-compensation for lost baggage despite admitting liability, and unfulfilled commitments to passengers.
“The NCAA is, therefore, initiating stiff enforcement action against Kenya Airways. This action will go through due process. I have put our legal department on notice,” he stated.
Bilateral Ties and Regulatory Compliance
When asked by a Nigerian X (formerly Twitter) user why Kenya Airways was not being banned outright, Achimugu explained that Nigeria and Kenya maintain strong diplomatic and aviation ties.
“Anybody can stop using any airline. The essence of sanctions is not to punish but to ensure compliance with the regulations that ensure the safety of and better travel experiences for passengers,” he explained.
He highlighted that Kenya Airways operates ten weekly flights into Lagos, with some days having two flights, emphasizing the airline’s significant presence in Nigeria.
“Nigeria has a great relationship with Kenya. The NCAA Consumer Protection Department also protects Kenya Airways where necessary. There are reports against the airline that we shut down on their merit, in accordance with the regulations,” he added.
Achimugu also addressed criticism from Kenyan social media users, stating that his role is to uphold aviation regulations without bias.
“We will do our job without prejudice. This is not banter. You don’t see me responding to the thousands of insults hurled at me by Kenyans. I believe that they feel a need to show support for the airline, which is admirable,” he concluded.
The NCAA’s move signals a firm stance on regulatory compliance, aiming to safeguard passengers’ rights while maintaining international aviation standards.
