FCCPC Reminds Airlines Of Duty To Provide Support During Flight Delays

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has reiterated that airlines operating in Nigeria are legally required to provide care and assistance to passengers affected by flight delays and cancellations.

Speaking on a television programme, Ondaje Ijagwu, the commission’s director of corporate affairs, said passengers are entitled to various forms of support depending on the duration and circumstances of the delay.

According to him, airlines must offer refreshments after a certain period of delay, while extended disruptions may require the provision of communication support such as airtime. In cases where flights are cancelled after prolonged waiting periods, airlines may also be obligated to arrange transportation and, where necessary, accommodation for affected passengers.

Ijagwu stressed that these obligations are backed by existing consumer protection regulations and must be complied with by service providers in the aviation sector.

He, however, noted that the commission does not immediately classify every reported incident as a violation without proper investigation. Instead, cases are assessed individually to determine whether there has been a breach of consumer rights.

The FCCPC spokesperson acknowledged that some airlines fail to meet these obligations, adding that enforcement actions are often triggered by complaints from passengers.

He explained that while the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) serves as the primary regulator of the aviation industry, the FCCPC plays a complementary role in safeguarding consumer interests across all sectors of the economy.

Ijagwu also addressed concerns from telecom subscribers over rapid data depletion, saying the commission has received numerous complaints and investigates each case on its merit. He added that where wrongdoing is established, appropriate sanctions are applied, including compensation for affected consumers.

He urged Nigerians to report grievances through the commission’s official channels, noting that the FCCPC continues to monitor various sectors, including telecommunications and housing, to prevent consumer exploitation.