Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, conveyed this acknowledgment in a post on X (formerly Twitter), noting that Onyeama recognized the enforcement measures implemented by the regulatory authority against Air Peace.
Onyeama reportedly conceded that his airline has not consistently adhered to NCAA regulations, especially concerning the prompt processing of refunds. He emphasized that he has directed his staff to ensure that refunds are processed within the timelines outlined in Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.
“Today, the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyeama, publicly accepted the enforcement actions initiated by the NCAA. He acknowledged the infractions by his staff and cautioned them to comply with the regulations,” Achimugu wrote.
The Air Peace chairman expressed his satisfaction that the NCAA had acted, saying, “I am glad that this has happened. I have warned my team. This shows that the NCAA knows what they are doing. I will always acknowledge it where the fault is ours.”
Achimugu commended Onyeama for his integrity and dedication to ensuring adherence to regulations, while assuring passengers that the NCAA would persist in safeguarding their rights.
Earlier this week, the NCAA revealed enforcement measures against five airlines, including Air Peace and Ethiopian Airlines, for breaching its regulations. Both carriers acknowledged their infractions and pledged to align with the NCAA’s standards moving forward.
Achimugu remarked, “This is the first time in over a decade that the NCAA Consumer Protection Department is initiating sanctions against airlines. It will no longer be business as usual, as we continue our duty to protect both airlines and passengers impartially.”
The enforcement actions were prompted by a multitude of customer complaints concerning flight delays, cancellations, and slow refund processing, with Air Peace facing particular scrutiny on social media for inadequate customer service, mishandling of luggage, and recurrent delays.
On December 10, the NCAA issued a caution to airlines, warning of potential sanctions for those that do not process ticket refunds within the designated timeframes.