The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has introduced a new regulation requiring all passengers to switch off their mobile phones and electronic devices during take-off and landing.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed the directive on Tuesday via his official X handle. He clarified that the previous allowance for “airplane mode” has been suspended pending a full regulatory review.
“All airlines must amend their security programmes to reflect this change. No more airplane mode until regulations are reviewed in line with evolving technological realities,” Achimugu stated.
The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of airline practices following a recent incident involving a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, on an Ibom Air Uyo, Lagos flight. Videos of Emmanson’s confrontation with cabin crew went viral, prompting the NCAA to summon both parties for questioning.
Achimugu assured the public that investigations are ongoing and pledged transparency in resolving the matter. Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Aviation has called for stricter enforcement of aviation standards, citing rising cases of passenger misconduct and professional lapses among airline staff.
The NCAA maintains that the directive aims to enhance passenger safety and ensure uniform compliance across all airlines operating in Nigeria.
