NCAA Bans Airplane Mode, Orders Phones Off During Take-Off, Landing

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has banned the use of airplane mode on mobile phones during take-off and landing. The Director General, Capt Chris Najomo, announced this directive at a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, stating that passengers must now completely switch off their electronic devices, including mobile phones, during these critical flight phases.

This measure aims to address the increasing trend of unruly passenger behavior in Nigerian airports. Najomo emphasized that this is not business as usual and that both airlines and passengers have a responsibility to comply with the new rule.

Additionally, the NCAA has summoned Comfort Emmanson and Juliana Edward, Ibom Air cabin crew members, for questioning following a controversial incident on a flight from Uyo to Lagos on August 10. The investigation is ongoing.