The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of unruly passenger behaviour at the nation’s airports, warning that such acts will no longer be tolerated and will attract tough sanctions under existing aviation laws and regulations.
In a statement signed by the FAAN’s Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, on Monday, said, “The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has noted with concern the increasing frequency of unruly behaviour by some passengers at our airports.
“We wish to categorically state that such conduct is entirely unacceptable within the framework of civil aviation and will not be tolerated.”
The agency advised travellers to familiarise themselves with existing rules, noting, “Passengers are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities, and Airlines’ Obligations as published by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Bye Laws.”
FAAN further stressed its readiness to enforce penalties against offenders, stating, “Moving forward, the Authority will not hesitate to implement relevant sanctions as stipulated in ICAO Annexe 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, especially Part 17 and FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour within airport premises.”
According to the statement, the authority is currently overhauling its security procedures, adding, “FAAN is also reviewing its protocols around restraining and prosecuting passengers in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme and relevant laws.”
On a recent case involving a passenger on an Ibom Air flight, FAAN disclosed, “Regarding the recent incident involving a passenger on Ibom Air, while the situation was initially managed by security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 the FAAN Aviation Security team has since intervened, taken the individual into custody, and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution.”
The authority concluded by appealing for civility, reiterating, “FAAN once again urges all intending passengers to conduct themselves in a civil and orderly manner and to adhere to all established airport and airline regulations. The safety, security, and comfort of all airport users remain our top priority, and acts of inappropriate behaviour will be met with the full weight of applicable laws and protocols.”
