AON lifts lifetime ban on Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmanson after FG’s intervention

By OLA MODUPE, Lagos-

Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has rescinded the lifetime ‘No Fly’ ban imposed on Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger accused of assaulting a crew member and airport security personnel.

The decision was announced in a statement by AON Spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, on Thursday in Lagos.

Recalled that Emmanson faced an indefinite ban from all AON-member airlines on August 12 following an altercation on Ibom Air flight Q1 513 from Uyo to Lagos on August 11.

Emmanson was remanded in a correctional facility on August 11 but was released on Wednesday after all criminal charges were dropped.

Okonkwo explained that the decision to lift the ban followed the intervention of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN.

“After considering all circumstances, including Emmanson’s remorse and the withdrawal of all charges, AON hereby lifts the lifetime ban,” he stated.

He also urged aviation authorities to launch public awareness campaigns on the consequences of unruly behavior, citing Section 85 of the Civil Aviation Act, 2022, and Part 17 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023.

Okonkwo outlined examples of unruly behavior, including “assaulting or threatening crew members, using mobile devices against crew instructions, smoking on board, or any conduct endangering flight safety.”

He emphasized the authority of pilots-in-command and Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers to restrain and remove disruptive passengers to ensure safety and order.

Additionally, Okonkwo confirmed AON’s commitment to collaborate with aviation agencies on retraining programs to manage such incidents, as proposed by the Minister.

“AON maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unruly behavior and encourages passengers to use proper channels for grievances,” he added.