The Airline Operators of Nigeria has lifted the lifetime ban imposed on Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger previously penalised for unruly behaviour.
A statement released on Thursday by AON spokesperson, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, said the decision followed an appeal from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Okonkwo stated that the operators decided to lift the ban after considering all relevant factors, such as Emmanson’s display of remorse, the withdrawal of the complaint, the dismissal of charges, and her release from custody.
He commended the Federal Government for introducing a retreat to retrain Aviation Security staff and airline crew on managing disruptive passengers, while calling on aviation agencies to enhance public awareness about the risks and legal repercussions of unruly behaviour, as provided in Section 85 of the Civil Aviation Act, 2022 and Part 17 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023.
He noted that such misconduct includes assault or threats to crew members, refusal to follow safety instructions, smoking in restricted areas, fighting, disorderly behaviour, or interfering with aircraft equipment.
The AON emphasized that pilots-in-command and AVSEC officers have the authority to restrain and de-board disruptive passengers, handing them over to the appropriate authorities to maintain flight safety and order.
“We confirm that members shall cooperate with the relevant aviation agencies and participate in the retraining retreats on how to handle cases of unruly and disruptive passengers as proposed by the minister,” Okonkwo added.
