The Federal Government is considering sanctions against Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines and other domestic carriers over persistent flight delays affecting passengers across the country.
The development follows fresh concerns over the performance of domestic airlines, after data from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) showed that thousands of flights were delayed in August 2026.
NCAA Records 4,765 Flight Delays in August
According to the NCAA’s August 2026 domestic airline disruption report, 15 airlines operated 7,961 flights during the month, with 4,765 flights delayed and 36 cancelled. That means about 59.9 per cent of the flights recorded during the period were affected by delays.
Air Peace recorded 1,330 delays out of 1,864 flights operated, while United Nigeria Airlines recorded 943 delays from 1,231 flights. The figures have increased scrutiny of how airlines schedule flights, manage their available aircraft and communicate with passengers during disruptions.
The NCAA had already directed United Nigeria Airlines to improve its operations, comply with passenger-rights regulations and avoid expanding routes beyond its available fleet capacity. “The regulator issued the directive after raising concerns about recent operational lapses that left passengers stranded without adequate assistance.
Airlines Blame Congestion, Weather and Infrastructure
While the government and aviation regulator are concerned about the frequency of delays, airline operators say not every disruption is within their control.
At the Aviation Day of the Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos on September 15, airline representatives cited several causes. These included airport congestion, inadequate infrastructure, technical issues and bad weather.
United Nigeria Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, said some aircraft are ready to depart. However, airport congestion can keep them on the ground. He also pointed to weather conditions and technical problems that can affect scheduled operations.
The NCAA, however, maintains that airlines remain responsible for meeting passenger-protection requirements when disruptions occur. Under its regulations, qualifying delays and cancellations can trigger several passenger protections. These may include refreshments, communication, re-routing, reimbursement or compensation, depending on the circumstances.
With the government considering sanctions over recurring flight delays, airlines could face increased regulatory pressure.
- Editor
- Editor
