In a recent report by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), concerns have been raised about the increasing number of thefts and instances of discourtesy during domestic flights. The findings revealed that these troubling occurrences are not only affecting the comfort of passengers but also tarnishing the reputation of Nigerian and international airlines operating in the country.
Over the past few months, passengers traveling on Nigerian domestic flights have raised alarm over the rising incidents of theft on board. Complaints have been lodged regarding the disappearance of valuables from carry-on baggage stored in the overhead bins, as well as the theft of entire carry-on bags. In many cases, passengers do not realize their belongings are missing until long after the flight, making it even more difficult to track down the perpetrators.
As airlines have continued to increase fees for checked baggage, more passengers have opted to bring larger bags as carry-ons, often filled with valuable items. This has led to an increase in reports of theft, with items being stolen from overhead compartments or from beneath the seats during flights. These incidents have become a growing concern, especially for travelers who expect their belongings to be safe while in the care of airlines.
The NCAA’s executive summary on international and domestic flight operations from January to December 2024 has provided a detailed breakdown of the airlines with the highest number of theft and discourtesy cases within Nigeria. The report spans both international and domestic airlines and sheds light on troubling trends in the industry.
For international airlines, **Royal Air** topped the list with 58 reported theft and discourtesy cases out of 473 flights operated during the period. **Qatar Airways** followed closely with 47 cases from 1,375 flights, while **Egypt Air** also reported 47 cases from 820 flights. Other international airlines such as **Ethiopian Air**, **Turkish Airlines**, and **Taac Angola** recorded 38, 28, and 23 cases respectively.
The findings were equally concerning on the domestic front. **Air Peace** led the pack with the most reported cases of theft and discourtesy, with 404 incidents out of 15,413 flights during the year. **Arik Air** followed with 396 cases from 10,699 flights, and **Dana Air** had 316 cases out of 1,446 flights operated. Other airlines on the list included **Aero Contractors**, **Ibom Air**, **Green Africa**, and **United Nigeria Airlines**, which all had significant numbers of complaints against them.
The report also highlighted **Max Air**, **Overland**, and **NG Eagle** for their relatively lower but still concerning number of theft and discourtesy incidents, with 84, 52, and 35 cases reported, respectively.
The high number of thefts on board is worrying not only for passengers but also for the airline industry as a whole. Many passengers expressed frustration, stating that they feel unsafe when storing their belongings in overhead compartments. Some have even raised concerns that the lack of accountability from airlines has led to an increase in incidents of theft, with perpetrators not facing consequences.
The reported cases of discourtesy also add to the discomfort of air travel. Passengers have shared experiences of unprofessional behavior from flight attendants and other airline staff, such as rudeness, neglect, or unhelpful attitudes, particularly when passengers attempt to report missing items or make complaints.
This combination of theft and discourtesy has led to a decline in public confidence in the airline industry, with many travelers opting for other modes of transport or avoiding flying altogether when possible.
In response to the growing concerns about theft, aviation authorities have provided several recommendations to both airlines and passengers to help mitigate the risks. One of the key suggestions is for passengers to stow their carry-on bags in an overhead compartment directly across the aisle from their seat. This way, passengers can easily spot if anyone attempts to tamper with their belongings.
Additionally, passengers are advised to place their bags upside down in the overhead bins. This simple precaution makes it more difficult for thieves to steal items without fully removing the bag from the compartment. By making these minor adjustments, passengers can help deter theft and ensure their valuables remain safe.
Another recommendation is for passengers to remove all valuables from their pockets and store them securely, either in their carry-on bag or on their person. This includes items such as mobile phones, wallets, and jewelry, which are commonly targeted by thieves during flights.
Given the rising number of thefts and discourtesy cases, there is increasing pressure on both the NCAA and airline operators to implement stricter security measures. The NCAA is being urged to step up inspections and ensure that all airlines are complying with safety and customer service standards. Additionally, passengers are calling for greater accountability and transparency from airlines when handling complaints, particularly in cases involving theft or misconduct.
Some passengers have suggested that airlines introduce more visible security measures, such as surveillance cameras in the cabin or personnel dedicated to overseeing passenger luggage. The implementation of more rigorous checks on baggage handling and flight crew conduct could go a long way toward restoring passenger trust in the airline industry.
The NCAA plays a crucial role in regulating and overseeing the operations of airlines within Nigeria. However, critics argue that the body must do more to ensure that airlines are held accountable for incidents of theft and discourtesy. The NCAA is tasked with ensuring that safety regulations are enforced, but they must also address the growing concerns of passengers who are feeling increasingly unsafe during flights.
Airline operators also bear responsibility for ensuring the safety and comfort of their passengers. Airlines must take proactive steps to improve staff training, particularly with respect to customer service and addressing complaints. Ensuring that flight crews are professional and courteous will help reduce incidents of discourtesy, while better baggage management and surveillance will prevent thefts from occurring in the first place.
