The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced it is lifting the lifetime ban previously placed on a passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson.
The ban was handed down after an unruly incident on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos on August 10.
The decision follows an intervention from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
According to a statement from the AON’s spokesman, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, the group considered several factors in its decision, including Ms. Emmanson’s reported remorse, the withdrawal of the complaint by the airline, and the subsequent dismissal of charges against her.
In its resolution, the AON emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for unruly passenger behavior and is now urging aviation agencies to launch a public awareness campaign.
The campaign would focus on educating the public about the dangers of such conduct, which includes assaulting crew members, smoking, and disobeying lawful instructions.
The AON noted that these actions are considered offenses under the Civil Aviation Act and are punishable by law.
The operators confirmed its members will cooperate with the Ministry of Aviation’s proposal to retrain airline and security personnel on how to handle disruptive passengers.
The group reiterated its commitment to safety and good order on all flights.
Reporting by Nosa Aituamen