Airlines to face $170, ₦10,000 fines for delayed luggage – NCAA

• Published On: 19 November 2024 at 11:43

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority is imposing tougher penalties on airlines that delay customers' luggage.

Foreign airlines will be penalized $170 for each delayed bag, while domestic carriers would be fined ₦10,000.

In October, the NCAA reaffirmed that customers can claim up to $1,000 for lost luggage on domestic flights and 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (about $1,700) for international flights.

This policy attempts to protect passengers' rights and hold airlines accountable.

The NCAA's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, made the announcement during a roadshow at Lagos airport on Monday to raise awareness among holiday travelers.

Achimugu assured travelers that the agency would impose strong sanctions on airlines that violated regulations, particularly those that delayed luggage.

He regretted that for a long time, the majority of air travelers were unaware of their rights, allowing airlines to continue to violate them.

He explained that the roadshow will make the traveling public more aware of their NCAA rights and where to file complaints.

"For far too long, Nigerians have claimed to be unaware of the NCAA's existence and functions. Our obligation to Nigerians is to raise awareness about the sector. Passengers must become more aware of their rights so that airlines do not continue to scam them.

"The minor facts about the legislation that travelers should know, for example, if you arrive at an airport and your luggage does not come with you, most passengers are unaware that they have the right to seek reimbursement from the airlines.

"If it's a domestic flight, you can stroll up to the airline desk and demand N10,000 for not carrying your suitcase with you. For international flights, the cost is $170. Many passengers are unaware of this, but today we are breaking the cycle of ignorance. "We are introducing the regulations to Nigerians in an exciting way," Achimugu stated.

During the Lagos roadshow, he emphasized the NCAA's recently developed website and its role in making it easier for passengers to report difficulties.

He stated that the platform has raised passenger awareness and concerns, prompting airlines to enhance their services.

The NCAA spokeswoman also revealed that similar roadshows and stakeholder summits would be held in the Abuja and Port Harcourt airports.