FAAN to Enforce Strict Sanctions on Disruptive Passengers

BY Rachel Akper
August 11, 2025
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The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced a tougher stance against unruly passengers at the nation’s airports, warning that disruptive behavior will attract immediate sanctions in line with civil aviation laws.

In a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, FAAN expressed concern over the increasing frequency of disorderly conduct by some travelers, describing such actions as “entirely unacceptable” and warning that they will no longer be tolerated.

“Passengers are strongly advised to acquaint themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities and Airlines’ Obligations as published by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and contained in the FAAN Bye Laws,” the statement read.

The agency said it will apply sanctions stipulated in ICAO Annex 17, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Part 17), and the FAAN Bye Laws to any form of disruptive or threatening behavior within airport premises. It added that it is reviewing its protocols for restraining and prosecuting offenders, in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme and other relevant laws.

FAAN cited a recent incident on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, in which a passenger was involved in disruptive conduct. According to the agency, the matter was initially managed by security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 (MM2) before the Aviation Security (AVSEC) team took the passenger into custody and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for investigation and prosecution.

Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy, FAAN urged passengers to conduct themselves in a civil and orderly manner, comply with all established airport and airline regulations, and respect the safety, security, and comfort of other airport users.

“The safety, security, and comfort of all airport users remain our top priority, and acts of inappropriate behaviour will be met with the full weight of applicable laws and protocols,” Orah stated.