The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has issued a stern warning to air travellers against unruly conduct within airport premises, stating that such behaviour will no longer be tolerated and will attract strict penalties under existing aviation laws.
In a statement signed on Monday by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, FAAN expressed concern over the growing frequency of disruptive incidents at airports nationwide.
“Such conduct is entirely unacceptable within the framework of civil aviation and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
The authority urged passengers to familiarise themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities as well as Airlines’ Obligations as outlined by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and FAAN Bye Laws.
FAAN reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing sanctions in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (NCAR), particularly Part 17, and the FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour.
The agency also revealed that it is reviewing its security protocols, including procedures for restraining and prosecuting passengers, in accordance with the Airport Approved Security Programme and relevant laws.
Referencing a recent incident involving a passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight, FAAN disclosed that its Aviation Security team had taken the individual into custody and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution.
FAAN concluded by appealing to passengers to maintain civility, stating:
“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.”
