From Suleiman Idris, Lagos
In an apparent move to prevent anticipated misunderstanding between passengers and airlines staff, The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) yesterday warned passengers of flight delays and outright cancellations even as raining season heightened.
The warning is coming at a period passengers complains has pitch the regulatory agency against the Consumer Protection Council over whose authority it is to sanction airlines over perceived ill treatment of the flying public.
NCAA General Manager Public Affairs, Fan Ndubuoke, told reporters yesterday, that “passengers at our airports should demonstrate exceptional calm and understanding when flights are cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
The onset of the raining season is usually accompanied with thunderstorms, lightning and turbulence; the most severe of them being the wind shear.”
In a signed statement, he said “When wind shear occurs along the flight path, it causes abrupt and substantial displacement of the aircraft from its intended path which becomes extremely hazardous for aircraft taking off and landing.
Other hazards associated with rainfall includes: microburst, hail, lightning, low ceiling and visibility, icing, altimeter error and engine water ingestion.
In other words, the rains being experienced now may result in occasional flight cancellations/delays.”
It said the Directorate of Consumer Protection (DCP) of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) expects the airline officials to ensure sustained communication to the affected passengers if and when flight cancellation/delays is anticipated or occurs.
“The passengers are accordingly required to remain calm, avoid violence and confrontation with the airline officials as this measure is to ensure their safety.
NCAA’s primary responsibility is to ensure safe and secure air transportation in the country. We will therefore enjoin intending passengers to exercise restraint/understanding in the event of any weather related cancellations/delays.”
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