BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has imposed a ₦5 million fine on Qatar Airways for breaches related to consumer protection, in a move aimed at safeguarding passengers’ rights.
The sanction, announced on Tuesday by the regulator’s spokesman, Michael Achimugu, reflects a strategic step by the NCAA in enforcing strict compliance among airlines operating in Nigeria.
The fine comes after investigations revealed infractions that undermined consumer trust and service standards, according to NCAA officials.
According to Achimugu, the NCAA noted that the airline is also under scrutiny for other cases.
Letters of Investigation (LOIs) previously issued to Qatar Airways could result in additional penalties if the airline fails to respond satisfactorily or address the concerns raised.
“The NCAA remains committed to protecting the rights of all stakeholders, especially passengers, and will continue to enforce regulations to ensure accountability in the aviation sector,” the regulator said.
Consumer advocacy groups have welcomed the move, highlighting that such actions are necessary to strengthen accountability and improve service delivery in the aviation industry. Analysts say this sets a precedent for other airlines, signaling that regulatory compliance and passenger welfare will not be taken lightly.
Qatar Airways, one of the world’s leading carriers, operates several international routes to Nigeria, including services to Lagos and Abuja.
While the airline has been praised for its global service standards, the NCAA’s intervention underscores the importance of adhering to local consumer protection laws.
Industry observers note that the fine, while modest relative to the airline’s size, carries symbolic weight.
It sends a clear message that regulatory authorities are vigilant and will take action against any operator that falls short of Nigerian aviation standards.
The NCAA has reiterated that continuous monitoring, enforcement of regulations, and proactive engagement with airlines remain central to its mission of ensuring a safe, efficient, and passenger-focused aviation sector in Nigeria.
The NCAA had earlier sanctioned Kenya Airways over similar infractions in February.
It involved a Nigerian passenger Gloria Omisore, who accused Kenya Airways of mishandling her during a disrupted trip.
Omisore, denied boarding on her connecting flight to Paris due to a missing Schengen transit visa, said the airline had earlier assured her she was eligible to travel.
The visa issue left her stranded at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for 17 hours, followed by a 10-hour delay on an alternative London route offered by the airline.
During the extended wait, Omisore requested accommodation and care, citing exhaustion and health concerns, but the airline refused, stating such provisions did not apply in visa-related denied boardings.
The confrontation escalated and was captured on video, showing Omisore allegedly throwing used sanitary pads at staff.
Following an investigation, the NCAA found Kenya Airways guilty of breaching consumer protection regulations and issuing misleading public statements.
On May 7, 2025, the regulator sanctioned the airline, ordering compensation of 1,000 Special Drawing Rights for each of the three affected passengers, including Omisore, and demanded a public apology.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
