The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has implemented measures to ensure uninterrupted flight operations during the Yuletide season.

The authority also aims to maintain seamless air travel beyond Christmas into the New Year.

The NCAA?s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, disclosed this during a Road Show and Sensitisation Summit held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday.

The event, organised by the Consumer Protection Department of the NCAA, had as its theme: ?Repositioning the Nigerian Aviation Industry for Operational Efficiency: Service Excellence and Economic Viability ? A Renewed and Inclusive Regulatory Dialogue.?

Achimugu announced that, following the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo?s, signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction, and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation?s approval, 10 additional aircraft have been cleared to boost fleet capacity in the country.

He highlighted the need for travellers to understand their rights, stating that the sensitisation campaign was designed to empower air passengers with knowledge of their entitlements and responsibilities.

Achimugu said: ?We are now in the peak travel season in the aviation sector. Over the past year, there have been significant flight disruptions and numerous complaints.

?Our duty at the NCAA is to sensitise passengers, as many complaints stem from a lack of knowledge about their rights and responsibilities. Our Consumer Protection Department protects both passengers and airlines, as they are all stakeholders.

?Many people are unaware that if they face air travel issues, the NCAA is the appropriate authority to contact. Airlines are required to provide information after 30 minutes of delay, refreshments after two hours, and accommodation for disruptions occurring between 10 pm and 4 am,? he added.

He explained that airlines are not sanctioned solely for disruptions but for failing to comply with regulatory requirements when disruptions occur.

Achimugu assured travellers that there would be minimal disruptions during the festive season due to increased fleet capacity.

?There will not be significant disruptions this festive season. Thanks to the Hon. Minister?s signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction, 10 additional aircraft have been added to the country?s fleet. This has addressed capacity problems and will significantly reduce disruptions,? he said.

He added that the NCAA had made progress in resolving passenger complaints and achieving refunds.

?Nigeria is one of the few countries in the world where airlines are mandated to provide 100% refunds without charges. In 2024, we have achieved a 65% case resolution rate. Outstanding cases often involve disagreements over figures or issues like Dana Air?s liabilities. We are actively working to resolve these matters,? he concluded. (The PUNCH)

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