No More Flight Mode: NCAA Orders Phones Completely Off During Take-Off and Landing
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially banned the use of “flight mode” on mobile phones and portable electronic devices during aircraft take-off and landing, directing passengers to switch off their devices completely.
The announcement was made by NCAA Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo, at the National Civil Aviation Security Committee Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.
“All mobile phones, I repeat, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices should be switched off during at least the critical phases of flight on all Nigerian airlines. Switched off,” Najomo declared, emphasizing that “flight mode” would no longer be acceptable.
He explained that the directive applies to all airlines operating in Nigeria and instructed them to update their operations manuals accordingly and submit them for NCAA approval.
The move, Najomo said, is part of a broader initiative to tackle aviation security concerns and growing incidents of unruly passenger behavior at Nigerian airports.
“The era of business as usual in aviation safety and passenger conduct is over,” he stressed, adding that airline operators must provide conflict resolution training for their staff, while security and law enforcement officers will undergo reinforced training with clearly defined rules of engagement.
To drive compliance, the NCAA plans to roll out public awareness campaigns, including radio jingles and television series, to educate travelers on the new rules.
The Authority also announced that mock emergency response exercises will be carried out in Lagos and Abuja next week to test the readiness of aviation security personnel.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, assured that enforcement would be handled case by case. He urged passengers to direct complaints through the Authority’s channels, while acknowledging that “unruly acts may not be completely eliminated.”
Najomo concluded that the updated rule is designed to strengthen aviation safety standards and ensure the highest level of protection for passengers and crew. Read More
