By Joy Onu
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has intensified its push for accessible air travel, ordering all domestic airlines to integrate a mandatory option for passengers to request special needs assistance during ticket bookings. The move is aimed at ensuring travelers with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility (PRM) can make advance arrangements, guaranteeing a smoother experience at airports and on flights.
The directive reinforces an earlier NCAA communication dated April 13, 2022, which first instructed airlines to prominently provide a field on online booking systems for passengers to indicate any required assistance before completing ticket purchases. The Authority said this step is critical to promoting inclusive and safe travel for all.
Under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023, Part 19.12.3.1, airlines, travel agents, and tour operators are required to offer passengers the opportunity to request assistance at the point of booking, whether online or over the phone. Ticket portals must allow passengers or their assistants to indicate special needs, and airline staff are expected to actively enquire if anyone in a booking party may require support at the airport or during flight operations.
The NCAA has directed airlines to ensure this special needs assistance feature is prominently integrated into their reservation systems, allowing passengers to submit requests before finalizing ticket purchases. Airlines are given seven days from receipt of the directive to comply, with non-adherence potentially resulting in enforcement actions under aviation regulations.
Michael Achimugu, signing on behalf of the NCAA Director-General, emphasized that the Authority remains committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and accessible aviation environment for all travelers.
