AON slams indefinite flight ban on Ibom Air passenger

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has barred a female passenger, Comfort Emmanson, from flying on any member airline indefinitely after she assaulted crew members aboard an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos.

AON spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, announced the decision on Monday, describing the August 10 incident as “unacceptable and dangerous.”

“We condemn the violent incident involving Ms. Comfort Emmanson on Ibom Air flight Q9 303. Effective immediately, she is placed on the AON ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely,” Okonkwo said, adding that the ban applies to both domestic and international flights operated by its members.

A viral video captured the moment Emmanson lashed out at a female flight attendant and confronted airport security.

Ibom Air explained that the confrontation began before take-off in Uyo, when Emmanson refused to switch off her phone as required by aviation safety rules. A fellow passenger reportedly turned it off, sparking a furious outburst from her.

On arrival in Lagos, the airline said, Emmanson physically attacked the same passenger and assaulted crew members, posing a threat to everyone on board.

Her lifetime ban comes weeks after similar incidents involving Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1) on ValueJet and Senator Adams Oshiomhole on an Air Peace flight.