The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced strict measures to address the growing issue of delayed or missing luggage by airlines, pledging to impose fines and enhance passenger awareness of their rights.
Under the new rules, international airlines will face a $170 fine for delayed luggage, while domestic airlines will pay N10,000. Passengers are also entitled to compensation of up to $1,000 for missing luggage on domestic flights and 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) for international flights.
Speaking during a roadshow at Lagos airport on Monday, Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasized the importance of passenger rights awareness. “For way too long, Nigerians have been claiming not to know about the existence and the duties of the NCAA. Our duty is to bring awareness to the industry,” he said.
Achimugu noted that many travelers remain unaware of their right to demand compensation when their luggage is delayed or missing. He highlighted the ease of claiming compensation, stating, “If it is a domestic flight, you can walk to the airline’s counter to demand your N10,000 for not bringing your bag with you. For international flights, it is $170.”
The NCAA has launched a revamped website to simplify the reporting process, resulting in a surge in passenger complaints and increased accountability for airlines.
Airlines with the Most Delayed Luggage
An executive summary from the NCAA revealed that Air France recorded the highest number of missing baggage cases among foreign carriers flying into Nigeria, with 2,075 incidents. KLM followed with 1,938 cases, while Egypt Air and Royal Air Maroc reported 1,850 and 1,745 cases, respectively. British Airways, Lufthansa, and Kenya Airways also reported significant numbers.
On the domestic front, Air Peace had 49 cases, with Africa World Airlines and Taag Angola recording 35 and 31 cases, respectively.
In addition to Lagos, the NCAA plans to extend its roadshow and stakeholders’ summit to Abuja and Port Harcourt airports. The campaigns aim to ensure travelers are informed about their rights and to encourage airlines to improve their luggage handling practices.
In the first half of 2024, over 19,000 cases of delayed or missing luggage were reported across all airlines operating in Nigeria. Achimugu expressed hope that the new measures would not only hold airlines accountable but also end the cycle of ignorance among passengers. “We are bringing the regulations to Nigerians in an exciting manner,” he added.
