Ibom Air: Comfort’s no-flight ban lifted following minister’s intervention

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON ) has lifted the no-flight ban earlier imposed on Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on Ibom Air, following reports of unruly and violent conduct onboard over the weekend.

In a statement issued by AON’s Public Relations Officer, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, the decision came after the intervention of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo .

Okonkwo said the association took into account several factors, including Emmanson’s reported show of remorse, the withdrawal of the criminal complaint against her, the striking out of related charges, and her subsequent release from custody .

He added that the Federal Government’s commitment to aviation safety and security, its call to draw a line after the granted clemencies, and plans to retrain aviation security (AVSEC) personnel and airline crew on managing disruptive passengers also influenced the reversal of the ban.

Okonkwo, who is also chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, emphasised that incidents of disruptive behaviour could be significantly reduced if passengers understood that such acts are dangerous to flight safety and punishable under the law by fines, imprisonment, or both.

He outlined examples of unruly behaviour in aviation to include assault, intimidation, or threats to crew members; disobeying instructions from the pilot, flight crew, or cabin staff; using mobile devices or other gadgets against crew directives; smoking on board or in restricted areas; engaging in fights or disorderly conduct; causing nuisance to other passengers; and any act that endangers flight operations.

Source: Gistreel | Read Full Story…