British Airways barred 58 passengers from boarding its Abuja-to-London flight due to a faulty aircraft door, citing safety concerns.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed that the decision was made to leave certain seats vacant to maintain safety standards.
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Relations and Consumer Protection, stated that the airline arranged hotel accommodation for the affected passengers.
While 28 of them chose to return home, the remaining 30 accepted the lodging offer. Achimugu noted that those affected are eligible to seek compensation, and arrangements have been made to transport them on a subsequent flight the next morning.
The NCAA advised air travellers facing similar challenges to contact Consumer Protection Officers stationed at the airport to ensure their rights are upheld.
In reaction to the incident, a social media commentator urged the NCAA to review the condition of aircraft cabins operated by foreign airlines serving Nigeria.
