Enforcing Immediate Reimbursement for Delayed and Cancelled Flights: Need for Legislative Intervention

Abstract

Summary • Flight delays and cancellations are common occurrences in Nigeria, as about 55% of domestic flights are either delayed or cancelled. • Flight delays and cancellations subject air passengers to untold hardships and inconveniences. • Flight delays and cancellations also cost the industry about $52.7 million (N24.2 billion) annually. • Despite legal provisions to provide immediate reimbursement, airline operators do not provide immediate refund to passengers of cancelled or delayed flights to enable them to make alternative travel arrangements. • Given the impact of flight delays and cancellations on the industry and air travellers, the intervention of policy makers is pertinent. • The National Assembly Committees on Aviation may engage with the NCAA, FCCPC and other relevant stakeholders to discuss the causes of incessant flight delays and cancellations. • The Committees may also engage with the NCAA to ensure that the provisions of the NCAA Regulations are effectively enforced. • The National Assembly Committee on Aviation may also work with the NCAA and FCCPC to ensure that customers are well enlightened about the available mechanisms for making complaints about flight delays and cancellations and how to get reimbursement.