The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority is ready to sanction airlines that delay passenger ticket refunds.

NCAA spokesman Michael Achimugu announced this in a statement on Tuesday.

According to him, ticket refund compliance regulations remain central to the NCAA’s consumer protection agenda.

He said the time had come for airlines to adhere strictly to the refund timelines, as failure to comply would attract immediate sanctions under Part 19 of the regulations.

Mr Achimugu said Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023 aimed to safeguard passenger rights.

“Cash purchases must be refunded immediately and by cash. Refunds for electronic payments, including mobile apps and internet banking, must occur within 14 days,” he said.

Speaking on a specific case involving Air Peace, the director stated that the airline had exceeded the stipulated refund timeframe, compelling the NCAA to demand swift compliance.

According to him, the incident has triggered the regulators to take decisive action against non-compliance.

Mr Achimugu said airlines that failed to meet the refund timelines outlined in the NCAA Regulations 2023 would face sanctions.

He assured passengers that the policy shift would reflect the regulator’s commitment to their rights and urged the airlines to view compliance as an opportunity to rebuild trust.

Mr Achimugu said the NCAA had previously facilitated full refunds and substantial rebates for passengers.

(NAN)