The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has lifted the lifetime ban on Ms. Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger previously sanctioned for unruly behavior.
The decision followed an appeal by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
According to AON spokesperson Professor Obiora Okonkwo, the ban was lifted after considering Emmanson’s display of remorse and other factors.
The AON commended the Federal Government’s proposal to retrain Aviation Security personnel and airline crew on handling disruptive passengers.
Okonkwo emphasized the importance of public sensitization on the dangers and legal consequences of unruly behavior, as outlined in the Civil Aviation Act and regulations.
He noted that unruly conduct includes assaulting crew members, ignoring safety instructions, and disorderly behavior, among others.
The AON reiterated that pilots-in-command and Aviation Security officers are empowered to restrain and de-board disruptive passengers and hand them over to competent authorities.
Okonkwo added that AON members will cooperate with relevant aviation agencies and participate in proposed retraining retreats to ensure safe and orderly flight operations.
