Nigerian Airlines refund ₦1.04bn to 5,285 passengers in 2025 second quarter

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that domestic airlines in Nigeria issued refunds totaling ₦1,038,505,680.80 to 5,285 passengers between April and June 2025, addressing disruptions such as flight cancellations and delays.

The data, shared via the NCAA’s official X account, highlights the aviation sector’s efforts to comply with passenger compensation regulations.

The refunds reflect a commitment to passenger rights under Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2015, which mandates compensation for delays and cancellations depending on the circumstances and flight type.

The NCAA’s oversight ensures airlines address grievances promptly, a response to persistent challenges in the sector, where delays and cancellations have been a significant issue.

For instance, a 2023 NCAA report noted that 55% of 18,288 domestic flights between January and March were delayed or canceled, underscoring the scale of disruptions passengers face.

The ₦1.04 billion in refunds indicates a proactive approach by airlines like Air Peace, Arik Air, and others to mitigate the impact of operational challenges, including those caused by bird strikes, maintenance costs, and infrastructure issues like the recent runway repairs at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

The NCAA continues to enforce compliance, ensuring passengers receive due compensation for inconveniences, aligning with efforts to enhance service reliability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.