The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, is considering an hefty fine against Royal Air Maroc.

This is due to alleged unprofessional conduct and failure to comply with aviation regulations.

This move is set to be one of the largest sanctions in Nigeria’s aviation history, as stated by Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.

Achimugu explained that the NCAA is preparing an extensive case against the Moroccan airline, which has been accused of being unresponsive and unprofessional in its dealings.

Royal Air Maroc, Morocco’s state-owned national carrier, operates from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, serving both domestic and international routes to Europe, the Middle East, and America.

Despite its wide network, the airline has now been flagged as a repeat offender, prompting the NCAA to launch an in-depth investigation into its actions.

“We are looking at a fine in the range of N200 million to N300 million,” Achimugu said. “This action is necessary due to their lack of response to regulatory inquiries, which is a violation of NCAA regulations.”

The NCAA’s investigation is focused on ensuring that Nigerian passengers receive high quality service from all foreign airlines operating in the country. Achimugu added that the enforcement process is still in its early stages, as it is currently going through legal and administrative channels.

“It is an initiation of enforcement action, not yet a final sanction,” he clarified. “We are still gathering the facts and legal approval. Once that is completed, the Director-General will sign off on the action.”

Achimugu stressed the NCAA’s commitment to fair enforcement of regulations, ensuring that the airline is held accountable without any unjust sanctions. “We are building a case that will set a precedent in Nigerian civil aviation,” he said.

READ ALSO : FG seeks partnerships for growth of domestic airlines

The move against Royal Air Maroc follows an earlier warning to airlines regarding timely passenger refunds, with the NCAA making clear that failure to comply would result in penalties.

Last year, the NCAA took enforcement actions against multiple airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, Air Peace, Arik Air, and Aero Contractors, due to rising passenger complaints.

This latest action also comes after a high-profile incident involving Royal Air Maroc.

In a previous case, an Abuja-bound flight from Casablanca had to make an emergency landing in Marrakesh due to a technical fault, leaving passengers stranded without adequate care.

The stranded passengers, many of whom were Nigerian nationals, reported poor treatment, including being left without food and forced to sleep on the floor.

In response to this, the Nigerian Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, directed the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Department to engage with the airline and ensure a resolution.

Initial investigations disclosed that while refreshments were provided, the airline was unable to accommodate passengers outside the airport terminal due to visa restrictions in Morocco.

Despite this, the NCAA summoned the airline for further clarification, signaling its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian passengers.

As the case progresses, the NCAA is determined to ensure that all foreign carriers adhere to Nigerian aviation standards and prioritize passenger welfare.

Crediblenewsng.com