JUST IN: Passengers Must Switch Off Phones During Flights — NCAA
By KUMBI ABOLUWADE
THE Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed all passengers to switch off their mobile phones during civil flights in the country.
This new directive follows a recent altercation between a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, and an Ibom Air flight attendant — an incident that has continued to attract public attention and debate.
New Rules on Phone Use During Flights
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, NCAA Director General Chris Najomo said all passengers must turn off their phones during takeoff and landing at all Nigerian airports.
He explained that the move aims to eliminate confusion caused by varying airline policies on phone use during flights.
“To avoid ambiguity and confusion, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices must be switched off during the critical stages of flight on all Nigerian airlines. No more flight mode,” Najomo stated.
He added that Nigerian airlines must update their operations manuals to include the new rule and submit them to the NCAA for approval.
NCAA’s Position and Next Steps
Najomo said the directive would remain in place until new technological improvements make it safe to review the rule.
He emphasized that flight crews must inform passengers about the requirement, while passengers must follow all crew instructions.
“We remain alert to future reviews of this requirement as aircraft technology improves,” he said. “It is the crew’s duty to communicate this policy, and passengers must comply.”
(Channels TV)
