Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a new directive banning the use of flight mode on mobile phones. Passengers will now be required to switch off all devices entirely during take-off and landing.
The announcement was made by NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, during a stakeholders’ session of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee Meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday.
No More Flight Mode
Capt. Najomo said the regulation was designed to unify safety standards across the sector, stressing that “airplane mode” will no longer be accepted.
“All mobile phones and other portable electronic devices must be switched off during critical phases of flight on all Nigerian airlines,” he stated. “There is no longer anything called flight mode. Devices must be switched off.”
Airlines have been directed to update their operations manuals in line with the new requirement and submit them to the NCAA for approval.
Clampdown on Unruly Passengers
The Director-General also announced a series of tough measures to curb rising cases of disruptive behavior at Nigerian airports, warning that the era of “business as usual” was over.
According to him, passengers and airlines will face stricter compliance checks, while the NCAA will roll out radio and television campaigns to educate travelers about their responsibilities.
“If you’re unruly, you’re unruly,” Najomo warned. “From now on, things will not remain as they were. Airlines must also ensure staff receive proper training to handle conflict situations.”
Security and Preparedness
Highlighting growing security concerns in the aviation sector, Najomo said threats ranging from deliberate sabotage to poor compliance with aviation rules require stronger collaboration among agencies.
To test preparedness, the NCAA will conduct mock emergency response drills in Lagos and Abuja next week, with findings to be made public.
“If you think you can get away with unruly behavior, we are waiting for you,” he said. “Security personnel and law enforcement must be properly trained, professional, and guided by clear rules of engagement.”
Consumer Protection Angle
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, echoed the enforcement stance, noting that while global aviation authorities often adopt harsher measures, Nigeria maintains a more balanced approach.
He urged passengers to always lodge complaints through the NCAA.
“This Authority exists to protect passengers’ rights,” he said.
Reflecting on recent high-profile incidents, Achimugu praised the NCAA’s handling, saying lessons had been learned by all parties — from passengers to crew members — but also stressed the need to close systemic gaps urgently.
Key Takeaways
- NCAA bans use of flight mode; passengers must switch off devices during take-off and landing.
- Airlines must revise operations manuals and train staff in conflict resolution.
- Public campaigns will raise awareness of passenger responsibilities.
- Mock security drills set for Lagos and Abuja to strengthen aviation safety.
