Nigerian Air Travel Alert: NCAA Mandates Complete Mobile Phone Shutdown During Critical Flight Phases
The landscape of air travel in Nigeria is undergoing a significant safety enhancement, as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a crucial directive: all mobile phones and portable electronic devices must now be completely switched off during the critical phases of flight, specifically during take-off and landing. This new regulation marks a definitive end to the previous practice of simply engaging ‘flight mode’ on devices.
New Era of Flight Safety: Beyond Flight Mode
The Director General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, unveiled this pivotal change during a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja. Captain Najomo stressed that the long-standing regulation permitting mobile phones in flight mode is no longer considered adequate or effective for ensuring optimal safety. He issued an unequivocal statement: “All mobile phones, I repeat, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices should be switched off during at least the critical phase of flight on all Nigerian airlines. Switched off.” This resolute stance underscores the Authority’s commitment to passenger safety and the integrity of flight operations across the nation. In response to this mandate, all Nigerian air operators, including prominent carriers like Ibom Air, are now required to promptly amend their operational manuals to reflect this updated requirement. Furthermore, any airline seeking to implement regulations that deviate from this new directive must first secure explicit approval from the NCAA. This move follows a recent incident involving an Ibom Air flight attendant and a passenger, highlighting the imperative for stricter adherence to safety protocols concerning electronic devices on board.
This directive is a critical step towards mitigating any potential interference or distraction during the most sensitive segments of a flight. By enforcing a complete shutdown, the NCAA aims to elevate the safety standards across Nigerian airspace, ensuring a more secure environment for all passengers and crew members. This enhanced regulation reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to aligning with international best practices in aviation safety.
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