By Nosa Aituamen
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has given its endorsement to a groundbreaking client-based solution.
It is designed to tackle the challenges associated with travel disruptions, particularly re-protection for passengers.
The innovative platform, dubbed “Propel Reprotection System,” is the brainchild of a consortium comprising Aviation Assist Hub, Aviation Technology Solutions (Avitech), and Leadway Assurance.
This tech-powered platform aims to provide Nigerian carriers with a seamless way to reprotect passengers during flight disruptions, ensuring minimal revenue loss and enhanced passenger satisfaction.
The system enables airlines to transfer passengers to available flights of partner airlines, thereby reducing the impact of operational, weather-related, and other infractions on air travel.
According to the NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, in a statement, the Propel Reprotection System is a product of collaboration between industry leaders to ensure seamless coordination, funding, and operational reliability.
Captain Najomo represented by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Micheal Achimugu, Najomo emphasized that the passenger is the reason every stakeholder exists in the industry and is entitled to better services in line with global best standards.
The consortium, he noted behind the Propel Reprotection System has worked tirelessly to drive the solution, which promises to revolutionize air travel in Nigeria.
The DGCA disclosed, with a pilot rollout scheduled for August, the platform is expected to reduce instances of flight delays, ensure a seamless flight experience, and boost confidence among Nigerian airlines.
The Managing Director of Aero Assist Hub, Mr. Olugbinde Ojutelayo, expressed optimism that the solution will ease the cash flow challenges faced by airlines during disruptions, while also providing passengers with a hassle-free experience.
He noted that the consortium has worked closely with stakeholders, including passengers, to craft a solution that addresses the chaotic problem of flight disruptions in Nigeria.
The Head, Legal Unit of Aero Assist Hub, Funke Junaid, assured that the platform prioritizes customer rights, with contractual obligations and partnerships with airlines to protect passengers.
Meanwhile, Diana Mulili, representing the insurance company, highlighted that the Propel platform has been co-created with the industry and is designed to provide a seamless experience for passengers, with a minimal insurance premium guaranteeing alternative flights in the event of disruptions.