The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has accused Qatar Airways of mistreating Nigerian flyers and flouting consumer protection rules. The regulatory body warns the airline will face strict sanctions if such actions continue.
The aviation watchdog disclosed the matter in a statement by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection at NCAA, on Friday via his official X account. The latest event involves a Nigerian traveler who was accused by a Qatar Airways cabin attendant of inappropriate conduct during boarding in Lagos for a flight routed through Doha to the United States.
Instead of addressing the allegation locally, claims surfaced only after the passenger arrived in Doha, where he was detained for about 18 hours, fined, and consented to signing documentation written exclusively in Arabic. The airline subsequently denied him passage, compelling him to purchase a new ticket, causing huge financial and reputational damage.
Achimugu condemned the airline’s disregard for Nigerian laws under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, stating the behavior will no longer be tolerated. He said that while boarding, a female crew member alleged that a male passenger travelling with his wife touched her improperly. The complaint was only made upon reaching Doha, leading to his arrest and extended detention.
He added that the airline’s selective respect for regulations, in contrast to adherence in Europe and other regions, is unacceptable. The NCAA emphasized its dual role in safeguarding both airlines and passengers, with Director-General Captain Chris Najomo firm enforcing consumer rights and imposing heavy fines on erring carriers.
The authority also revealed that Qatar Airways’ country manager neglected to attend a summoned meeting, sending junior staffers instead. The airline has reportedly ignored NCAA’s investigative notices and failed to resolve escalated customer grievances.
Achimugu reaffirmed Nigeria’s rules must be upheld just like international standards, warning that falsifying information or ignoring regulatory orders constitutes a breach of law. The Nigerian bilateral air service agreements (BASAs) demand compliance, he stressed. Furthermore, Royal Air Maroc and Saudi Air have been similarly warned and face penalties if they disregard guidelines.
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