The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has emphasized the consequences of unruly behavior on flights, following recent incidents involving Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, and Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on an Ibom Air flight. According to the NCAA Act 2022, XII 85, offences of this nature attract penalties ranging from N200,000 fines to two months imprisonment or both.
Penalties for Unruly Behavior
- *Assaulting or Intimidating Crew Members*: Any person who assaults, intimidates, or threatens flight crew members or flight attendants may face a fine of at least N200,000 or imprisonment for a term of at least two months or both.
- *Interfering with Crew Members' Duties*: Interfering with crew members' duties, such as refusing to follow instructions, may result in a fine not exceeding N200,000 or imprisonment for a term of at least two months or both.
- *Using Devices that Interfere with Aircraft Systems*: Using devices that may interfere with aircraft radio frequency or other navigational equipment onboard an aircraft is prohibited and may attract a fine not exceeding N200,000 or imprisonment for a term of at least two months or both ¹.
Recent Incidents and Government Response
The incidents involving KWAM 1 and Comfort Emmanson have sparked controversy and debate about unruly passenger behavior. In response, the Federal Government has taken steps to address the issue, including withdrawing criminal complaints against both individuals after they showed remorse. The government has also announced plans to retrain aviation security personnel on managing disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations.
Key Decisions on Unruly Passengers
- *Withdrawal of Criminal Complaints*: The Federal Government has withdrawn its criminal complaint against Comfort Emmanson, and the NCAA will also withdraw its complaint against KWAM 1.
- *Reduction of Flight Ban*: The flight ban imposed on KWAM 1 has been reduced from six months to one month.
- *Engagement with KWAM 1*: The Federal Government plans to engage KWAM 1 as an ambassador for airport security protocols ² ³.
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