Nigeria Bans Airplane Mode to Quell In-Flight Threats and Disruptions

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has mandated that all mobile phones and electronic devices be completely switched off during the critical phases of flight, effectively ending the use of “flight mode” during take-off and landing. The directive was announced by Capt. Chris Najomo, the NCAA’s Director General, during a stakeholders’ meeting on aviation security in Abuja [1]. The decision aligns with recent global trends aimed at minimizing potential disruptions and enhancing safety during these crucial stages of air travel.

Under the new regulation, Nigerian airlines are required to revise their operational manuals to reflect the prohibition on flight mode. Operators must submit these updated documents to the NCAA for approval, ensuring compliance across all domestic carriers. The directive applies to all portable electronic devices, emphasizing the NCAA’s commitment to uniformity and stricter adherence to safety protocols [1]. Passengers found non-compliant may now face stricter enforcement measures, marking a shift from previous practices that allowed limited use of devices in airplane mode.

Beyond device restrictions, the NCAA is taking a broader approach to address growing concerns over unruly passenger behavior. Capt. Najomo stressed the importance of training airline staff in conflict resolution and reinforced the need for heightened vigilance among aviation security personnel. The authority also plans public awareness campaigns, including radio jingles and TV programs, to educate passengers on their responsibilities during flights. These initiatives are intended to foster a more cooperative and informed traveling public [1].

To further bolster preparedness, the NCAA announced plans for mock response exercises in Lagos and Abuja, scheduled to take place in the coming weeks. The drills will assess the readiness of aviation security personnel and law enforcement to manage incidents involving unruly passengers. Capt. Najomo emphasized that all stakeholders, from airlines to intelligence agencies, must collaborate more effectively to share threat intelligence and coordinate responses. “There can be no silos in this effort,” he stated [1].

The NCAA also highlighted the need for a unified and accountable response to the growing number of security threats in the aviation sector. These include deliberate or attempted sabotage, non-compliance with protocols by passengers, and lapses in standard operating procedures by service providers. The authority reiterated that while unruly incidents cannot be completely eliminated, they must be managed in a professional and responsible manner, consistent with global standards [1].

In a related statement, the Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, noted that passengers should direct complaints through the NCAA to ensure proper resolution. He pointed to recent high-profile cases handled by the authority as examples of its capacity to enforce discipline and accountability. According to Achimugu, the NCAA’s actions have already prompted corrective measures among involved parties, though he acknowledged the need for further systemic improvements [1].

Source: [1] Breaking: NCAA bans airplane mode, orders phones off during take-off and landing (https://punchng.com/breaking-ncaa-bans-airplane-mode-orders-phones-off-during-take-off-landing/)