By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has warned that passengers who engage in unruly behavior at the nation’s airports will face sanctions in accordance with civil aviation laws.
This warning was issued in a statement signed by Mrs. Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN, in Lagos on Monday.
FAAN expressed deep concern over the recent surge in incidents of unruly behavior at airports, describing such actions as unacceptable and intolerable.
Orah urged passengers to acquaint themselves with their rights and responsibilities, as well as the obligations of airlines, as outlined by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and FAAN’s Bye Laws.
“The Authority will not hesitate to implement relevant sanctions as stipulated in ICAO Annex 17, Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, especially Part 17, and FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour within airport premises.
“FAAN is also reviewing its protocols around restraining and prosecuting passengers in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme and relevant laws.
“Regarding the recent incident involving a passenger on Ibom Air, while the situation was initially managed by security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 (MMA2), the FAAN Aviation Security team has since intervened, taken the individual into custody and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution,” she added.
FAAN, as stated by Orah, calls on prospective passengers to behave in a civil and orderly fashion, complying with all airport and airline rules.
The authority prioritizes the safety, security, and comfort of all airport users, and warns that any inappropriate behavior will be met with sanctions as per relevant laws and protocols.